How to Heal Ringworm
Ringworm is a very common fungal infection that affects the skin, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Children are most at risk for developing ringworm, but it can affect people at any age. The most common symptom of this highly-contagious infection is a ring-shaped rash on the body, although patients may also experience red and itchy patches of skin without the accompanying rash. Luckily, the NIH has found that ringworm can easily be treated at home and in most cases will not require treatment by a doctor.
Instructions
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Purchase an over-the-counter antifungal medication from your local drugstore or pharmacy. The NIH recommends looking for the ingredients clotrimazole or miconazole in any medication you buy to treat ringworm. Popular name-brand antifungal treatments include Lamisil and Lotramin.
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Clean the affected area with soap and water. Dry your skin gently with a towel.
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Apply a thin layer of your antifungal medication to the ringworm twice daily. Rub it in completely. You do not need to put a bandage or cover over your ringworm unless your doctor tells you otherwise.
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Wash your hands immediately after applying the medication.
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Avoid skin-to-skin contact with other people while you are treating your ringworm. Ringworm is highly contagious and is spread easily between people. The NIH also recommends washing your sheets and pajamas each day during treatment to ensure you don't become reinfected.
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Keep applying the antifungal medication until your symptoms go away or your doctor instructs you to stop. Visit your doctor if your ringworm does not go away within three to four weeks. In some cases, ringworm will only respond to an oral antifungal medication that your doctor can prescribe.
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Tips & Warnings
You can help prevent future cases of ringworm by taking regular showers and practicing good hygiene. Try to keep your skin dry by removing wet bathing suits or sweaty gym clothes immediately. The NIH recommends that you avoid sharing clothing or towels with other people and always wear footwear at the gym and in other public places.
