This page is general health information, not a diagnosis. Always consult a licensed clinician about your own health.
Overview
Ringworm is a fungal infection of the skin, scalp or nails — no worm is involved — that forms itchy, ring-shaped patches with raised edges. It thrives in heat, sweat and shared combs or clothing, and spreads easily among children. Antifungal treatment clears it; antibiotics and bleaching creams do not.
Symptoms
Round, itchy patches with a raised, scaly edge
Clearer skin in the centre of the ring
Scaly patches and hair loss on the scalp (children)
Itching and peeling between the toes (athlete's foot)
Discoloured, thickened or crumbly nails
Itchy rash in the groin (jock itch)
Causes & risk factors
Fungal spores spread by skin contact
Sharing combs, caps, towels or clothing
Heat, sweating and tight, damp clothing
Contact with infected pets or animals
Treatment & self-care
Most skin patches clear with an antifungal cream applied for two to four weeks — continue for a week after the rash fades; scalp and nail infections need antifungal tablets prescribed by a clinician. Keep the area clean and dry, wash and sun-dry clothing and bedding, and avoid sharing combs or towels. Steroid-containing "triple action" creams often worsen fungal infections.
See a doctor urgently if
Scalp ringworm or any hair loss patch in a child
Rash spreading despite antifungal cream
Nail involvement
Rash with pus, pain or fever
Frequently asked questions
What are the first signs of Ringworm & Fungal Skin Infections?
Early signs often include round, itchy patches with a raised, scaly edge, clearer skin in the centre of the ring, scaly patches and hair loss on the scalp (children). Symptoms vary from person to person, so a proper assessment by a doctor is the only way to be sure.
Can Ringworm & Fungal Skin Infections be treated?
Most skin patches clear with an antifungal cream applied for two to four weeks — continue for a week after the rash fades; scalp and nail infections need antifungal tablets prescribed by a clinician. Keep the area clean and dry, wash and sun-dry clothing and bedding, and avoid sharing combs or towels. Steroid-containing "triple action" creams often worsen fungal infections.
When should I see a doctor about Ringworm & Fungal Skin Infections?
See a doctor promptly if you notice: scalp ringworm or any hair loss patch in a child; rash spreading despite antifungal cream; nail involvement; rash with pus, pain or fever.