Ringworm is a skin infection that is caused by the fungus Tinea. It’s highly contagious and anyone can get ringworm, although some people are more susceptible to the infection than others. How to cure ringworm fast?

Some of the symptoms of ringworm include red, scaly, circular patches on the skin or nails. They are most often found on the scalp, arms or other parts of the body. Ringworm is prevalent in two other forms – jock itch and athlete’s foot.

 

How to Get Rid of Ringworms?

1. Apply a topical antifungal

How to cure ringworm fast? Many cases of ringworm can be cured at home with medication. Common antifungals include miconazole (Cruex), clotrimazole (Desenex) and terbinafine (Lamisil).

After cleaning the rash, use a thin layer of an antifungal medication 2-3 times per day or as directed by the package. The medication should be applied to a wider area than just the affected area – spread it out over 2 to 3 centimetres.

 

2. Let it breathe

Covering ringworm with a bandage works in theory but is actually counterproductive. The bandages keep moisture on the rash and slow down healing. Bandaging only makes the rash worse.

In order to help your skin heal faster, wear gear that is comfortable and breathable. This includes loose-fitting clothes like long-sleeves & pants.

 

3. Wash bedding daily

Ringworm is highly contagious so make sure you wash sheets daily. Fungal spores can be tough to remove, so it’s important to make sure you wash your bedding. If you sleep in the same bedding every night, it could take longer before the ringworm heals. In addition to this, an infected bedding surface can spread to other parts of your body.

To wash your infected clothes and bedding, add hot water and laundry detergent. Plus, to kill the fungus even more thoroughly, use borax or bleach with laundry detergent.

 

4. Change wet underwear and socks

Over time, ringworm on feet or groin area can spread to other parts of the body & you’ll need to take more care. It’s important that these areas are completely dry and the only way to do this is by wearing shoes, socks and clothes made with natural fibres that absorb moisture.

 

5. Use an antifungal shampoo

Sometimes, ringworm develops on the scalp. Some symptoms that indicate you might have a scalp infection are itching, patches of hair loss, severe dandruff, and painful boils/blisters. If you notice any of these symptoms, make sure to consult with your doctor who can diagnose the infection and provide treatment recommendations.

These shampoos have powerful ingredients that can prevent the occurrence of scalp problems, like inflammation and bacterial infections. You can find them at grocery stores or drugstores. Shampoos with antifungal ingredients are important for a healthy scalp, so make sure that it contains selenium sulphide and ketoconazole. Always follow the directions on the package when you’re washing your hair.

However, be aware that although scalp fungus is relatively easy to get rid of without oral medications, there are some cases where it’s almost impossible.

 

6. Take a prescription antifungal

Be sure to keep up a treatment with any antifungal product for the duration of the rash’s visible appearance. Stop treatment as soon as it disappears and it may reappear, even after just a few days. If you have stubborn symptoms, see your doctor. A ringworm infection that doesn’t improve or spreads may require a prescription-strength topical cream or oral antifungal medication.

Talk to your primary care doctor or get a check up from the dermatologist. Take the prescription medicine as directed by your doctor.

 

The Takeaway

Although ringworm is a common skin infection, quick action is necessary to arrest its spread. How to cure ringworm fast? It’s also important to know how to protect yourself against future infections. For example:

• You should never share personal care items like towels, clothes or brushes with others in order to avoid spreading germs.
• Wash your hands often.
• Learn about ringworm and how to treat it.

Most cases of ringworm will clear up within 2 weeks, and at-home remedies can be very effective when applied consistently.

However, not all treatments will work for all types of ringworm, and it is tough to say which treatment is most effective. Children and people with sensitive skin might want to try another treatment before using essential oils, which may cause irritation.

Some types of infections may require stronger, prolonged treatments to cure them. If symptoms haven’t gone away after 2 weeks from starting treatment, the doctor will likely recommend one of these stronger treatments.

References

Home remedies for ringworm: 11 natural treatments. (2022). Retrieved from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320911

How to Get Rid of Ringworm: 7 Treatments. (2022). Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/health/how-to-get-rid-of-ringworm