How to Treat Ringworm Without a Prescription

Band-aids help prevent the spreading of ringworm.

Ringworm is a contagious fungal infection of the skin. It's usually appears as red, scaly patches with well-defined borders anywhere on the body, including the groan and scalp. Ringworm is common among school-aged children and is spread by skin-to-skin contact or coming in contact with infected items such as combs or sheets. Unless an individual has a compromised immune system, ringworm is not serious and can be healed with over-the-counter medications within four weeks. Look for ointments, powders or creams made for ringworm that contain ingredients such as miconazole or clotrimazole.

Things You'll Need

• Over-the-counter ringworm medication
• Band-aids or gauze

Instructions

1. Wash skin with soap and water and dry.

2. Apply over-the-counter antifungal lotions, powder or cream to the affected area according to the product directions.

3. Cover the rash with a band-aid or medical gauze secured with tape.

4. Repeat cleansing, drying and application of ointment and cover twice daily until the rash heals.

5. Wash exposed bedding and nightclothes daily until the ringworm is healed.

Tips & Warnings

• If ringworm does not improve with self-care, consult a physician.

• Avoid contact sports and swimming pools until lesions are gone.

• Pets infected with ringworm should be treated concurrently.

References

• Medline Plus: Ringworm
• Indiana State Department of Health: Quick Facts About Ringworm
• Idaho Department of Health and Welfare: Child Care Manual

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Indiana State Board of Animal Health: Ringworm Prevention