Ringworm
What is ringworm?
Ringworm is a common skin infection caused by fungus. It often itches, but not always. The fungus can spread from other people or animals, especially pets.
Ringworm usually begins as a single, ring-shaped patch that slowly enlarges. The edges are often raised, red, or darker than the surrounding skin. While you can get more than one spot, the fungus usually prefers to expand one patch rather than start many new ones.
If you notice several round, itchy, dry spots on different parts of your body, it is more likely to be nummular (coin-shaped) eczema. See my page on eczema for management options.
Why do I have ringworm?
Ringworm spreads in a few common ways:
From people: Often through direct skin contact, especially in athletes like wrestlers.
From animals: Pets such as cats and dogs are frequent carriers.
From the environment: Ringworm thrives in warm, humid places and spreads more easily in shared housing (dorms, large households).
Other risk factors include tight clothing, frequent sweating, and dry or irritated skin.
How do I fix ringworm?
Ringworm usually gets better with over-the-counter treatments, though it can take a few weeks. Here are the best options:
1. Use an antifungal cream (first-line treatment).
Apply a thin layer twice a day.
“-afine” creams (usually stronger, more expensive): terbinafine, butenafine.
“-azole” creams (cheaper, still effective): clotrimazole, miconazole.
Tip: Start with an “-azole.” If it’s stubborn, try an “-afine.”
2. If it’s itchy, add a mild steroid ointment.
Apply hydrocortisone ointment after the antifungal cream, twice daily.
Stop the steroid once itching is gone.
⚠️ Never use steroid creams alone—this can make ringworm worse and push it deeper into hair follicles.
⚠️ WARNING: Overuse of topical steroids like hydrocortisone can cause skin thinning, stretch marks, and easy bleeding or bruising.
3. Keep the skin dry.
Use antifungal powders if you sweat a lot or live in a humid place.
Clinical-strength antiperspirant can also help (see my Sweating page).
4. Try vinegar soaks.
Helps clear fungus and bacteria while healing broken skin.
5. Consider combination treatments.
Whitfield’s ointment (antifungal + mild acid) both kills fungus and peels off dry skin.
What if my ringworm isn’t getting better?
Most cases improve with the steps above. But sometimes another rash (like eczema) can look like ringworm. If over-the-counter treatments aren’t helping, or if ringworm keeps coming back, see a board-certified dermatologist. Stronger prescription creams or a short course of oral antifungal medication usually clear it up quickly. If you are in or near Utah, see one of my excellent colleagues at the University of Utah or me virtually with Honeydew.
DISCLAIMER
The statements expressed and content of this website are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Readers should seek their own professional counsel for any medical condition or before starting or altering any treatment, exercise, or dietary plan. Please see our full disclaimer here.