How do you treat ringworm on the skin?
Matthew Wilson
Updated on April 16, 2026
- Apply a topical antifungal. Most cases of ringworm can be treated at home.
- Let it breathe. It may seem logical to keep ringworm covered with a bandage to prevent spreading the infection.
- Wash bedding daily.
- Change wet underwear and socks.
- Use an antifungal shampoo.
- Take a prescription antifungal.
Then, what causes ringworm on the skin?
Causes. Ringworm is caused by a type of fungus that eats keratin. These are called dermatophytes. Dermatophytes attack the skin, scalp, hair, and nails because those are the only parts of the body with enough keratin to attract them.
Also Know, what does ringworm look like on skin? Ringworm is a common fungal skin infection and is not due to a worm. Ringworm causes a scaly, crusted rash that may appear as round, ring-like red patches on the skin. Other symptoms and signs of ringworm include patches of hair loss or scaling on the scalp, itching, and blister-like lesions.
In this way, how do you get rid of ringworm on your face?
Apple cider vinegar has strong antifungal properties, so it may help treat ringworm when applied topically to the affected area. To use it, soak a cotton ball in undiluted apple cider vinegar and brush the cotton ball over your skin. Do this three times per day.
How long does it take for ringworm to go away?
Without treatment, most cases of ringworm would disappear on their own within several months, but they can become chronic. Ringworm symptoms usually disappear quickly with treatment, but the treatment may need to be continued for two to four weeks to eliminate all of the fungus.
Related Question Answers
What cures ringworm fast?
Apple cider vinegar has strong antifungal properties, so it may help treat ringworm when applied topically to the affected area. To use it, soak a cotton ball in undiluted apple cider vinegar and brush the cotton ball over your skin. Do this three times per day.How do I stop ringworm from spreading?
How can I prevent ringworm?- Keep your skin clean and dry.
- Wear shoes that allow air to circulate freely around your feet.
- Don't walk barefoot in areas like locker rooms or public showers.
- Clip your fingernails and toenails short and keep them clean.
- Change your socks and underwear at least once a day.
Can rubbing alcohol kill ringworm?
Rubbing alcohol Like hydrogen peroxide, rubbing alcohol can help kill off the fungus that's on the surface level of the skin. You can apply it directly to the affected area or soak your feet in a footbath of 70 percent rubbing alcohol and 30 percent water for 30 minutes.What kills ringworm naturally?
Read on to discover 11 natural treatments for fungal infections, such as ringworm:- Garlic. Share on Pinterest Garlic paste may be used as a topical treatment, although no studies have been conducted on its use.
- Soapy water.
- Apple cider vinegar.
- Aloe vera.
- Coconut oil.
- Grapefruit seed extract.
- Turmeric.
- Powdered licorice.
What do ringworm spots look like?
Ringworm causes a scaly, crusted rash that may appear as round, ring-like red patches on the skin. Other symptoms and signs of ringworm include patches of hair loss or scaling on the scalp, itching, and blister-like lesions. Ringworm is contagious and can be passed through direct contact from person to person.What can I use for ringworm on my skin?
Apply a topical antifungal Visit your local drugstore or Amazon.com to purchase over-the-counter antifungal cream, lotion, or powder. Over-the-counter antifungals can kill the fungus and promote healing. Effective medications include miconazole (Cruex), clotrimazole (Desenex) and terbinafine (Lamisil).What is the best cream for ringworm?
For a mild case of ringworm, try these self-care tips.- Keep the affected area clean and dry.
- Apply an over-the-counter antifungal lotion, cream or ointment such as clotrimazole (Lotrimin AF) or terbinafine (Lamisil AT) as directed on the packaging.
How do you get rid of ringworm in 24 hours?
If you have no reaction in 12 to 24 hours, it should be safe to use on your infection.- Soap and water. When you have ringworm, you need to keep the area as clean as possible.
- Apple cider vinegar.
- Tea tree oil.
- Coconut oil.
- Turmeric.
- Aloe vera.
- Oregano oil.
- Lemongrass oil or tea.