What causes ringworms on the head
John Johnson
Updated on April 15, 2026
Antifungal medications that can be taken by mouth are used to treat ringworm of the scalp. The medications most commonly prescribed include griseofulvin (Gris-Peg) and terbinafine (Lamisil). Your child might need to take one of these medications for six weeks or more.
How do you treat ringworm on the scalp?
Antifungal medications that can be taken by mouth are used to treat ringworm of the scalp. The medications most commonly prescribed include griseofulvin (Gris-Peg) and terbinafine (Lamisil). Your child might need to take one of these medications for six weeks or more.
Why do I keep getting ringworm on my scalp?
Fungi called dermatophytes cause ringworm of the scalp. Fungi are organisms that thrive on dead tissue, such as fingernails, hair, and the outer layers of your skin. Dermatophytes prefer warmth and moisture, so they thrive on sweaty skin. Overcrowding and poor hygiene increase the spread of ringworm.
What causes ringworm on the head?
Ringworm of the scalp is caused by one of several varieties of mold-like fungi called dermatophytes. The fungi attack the outer layer of skin on the scalp and the hair shaft. Ringworm isn’t caused by a worm. The common name for the disorder refers to the ring-like or circular appearance of the infection on the skin.Can adults get ringworm on scalp?
Tinea capitis (scalp ringworm) is uncommon after puberty. When it occurs in adults the clinical features may be atypical and this may delay the diagnosis.
Do ringworms go away without treatment?
There’s no set time limit for a ringworm infection. Without treatment, it may go away on its own in a matter of months in a healthy person. Or it may not. Ringworm on the body is usually treated with a topical ointment such as terbinafine.
What cures ringworm fast?
- Apply a topical antifungal. Most cases of ringworm can be treated at home. …
- Let it breathe. …
- Wash bedding daily. …
- Change wet underwear and socks. …
- Use an antifungal shampoo. …
- Take a prescription antifungal.
What kills fungus on scalp shampoo?
Ketoconazole shampoos (Nizoral Anti-Dandruff). This shampoo is intended to kill dandruff-causing fungi that live on your scalp.What kills fungus on scalp?
One of the most common medications used to treat fungal infections of the scalp is griseofulvin, an oral antifungal. You may need to use griseofulvin or another medication for four to eight weeks to properly treat the infection. Other medications used to treat scalp fungus include itraconazole, fluconazole and others.
Does ringworm make you sick?Fungal infections rarely spread below the surface of the skin. The risk of any serious illness is very small. However, without treatment, ringworm can spread from one part of the body to another. If the skin is broken, bacteria may enter and cause an infection.
Article first time published onWhat should you not eat when you have ringworm?
In natural medicine, it is generally believed that the fungal (yeast) organisms responsible for infections such as ringworm thrive on foods containing sugar (including the sugar in fruit), refined carbohydrates (like pasta and white rice) and foods that are mouldy, yeasty or fermented (most breads, aged cheeses, dried …
Does ringworm cause hair loss?
It is sometimes referred to as ringworm of the scalp. The signs and symptoms are variable, but most commonly include itchy, dry/flaky, bald patches on the scalp. Also in some cases, ringworm can result in severe inflammation and lead to permanent hair loss.
How often should you wash your hair with ringworm?
- Other children in the home may want to use the shampoo 2 to 3 times a week for about 6 weeks.
- Adults only need to wash with the shampoo if they have signs of tinea capitis or ringworm.
How do you stop ringworm from spreading?
- avoid scratching or touching the ringworm lesion.
- wash the hands thoroughly after touching or treating the ringworm lesion.
- wash clothes, bedding, and towels in hot, soapy water.
What is the fastest home remedy for ringworm?
Apple cider vinegar 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.
What is the best cream for ringworm?
Apply an over-the-counter antifungal lotion, cream or ointment such as clotrimazole (Lotrimin AF) or terbinafine (Lamisil AT) as directed on the packaging.
Can I use Vaseline on ringworm?
The best defense against the itchy, scaly infection is to keep cool and dry and use a moisture barrier on the skin like Vaseline or Aquaphor.
How long does it take for ringworm to disappear?
Most mild cases of ringworm usually clear up in 2 to 4 weeks. But treatment might be needed for up to 3 months if the infection is more serious, or affects the nails or the scalp.
Are ringworms curable?
What is the prognosis (outlook) for ringworm? Ringworm can be cured with appropriate treatment. Ringworm of the skin typically resolves after two to three weeks of treatment, while cases of ringworm of the scalp or nails may require treatment for a few months.
What home remedy kills fungus in hair?
- Try diluting apple cider vinegar in equal parts with water to help loosen dead skin and reduce inflammation. Shop for apple cider vinegar online.
- Coconut oil is thought to have antifungal properties. …
- Essential oils may have antimicrobial properties that may help a scalp yeast infection.
Does apple cider vinegar cure scalp fungus?
Apple cider vinegar acts as an astringent and clears your scalp. It contains strong anti-fungal and antibacterial properties that help you get rid of the dead skin cells on your scalp that are causing itchiness. Applying apple cider vinegar on your scalp can also maintain its pH.
Does hair grow back after ringworm?
Hair normally grows back 6 to 12 months after treatment. In the meantime, your child can wear a hat or scarf to hide the bald areas. How is it treated? * Oral antifungal medicine The main treatment for ringworm of the scalp is a prescription antifungal medicine taken by mouth.
Do ringworms itch?
Ringworm might appear as roundish, flat patches of itchy skin. Ringworm of the body (tinea corporis) is a rash caused by a fungal infection. It’s usually an itchy, circular rash with clearer skin in the middle. Ringworm gets its name because of its appearance.
What shampoo is best for ringworm?
A shampoo such as Nizoral or Head and Shoulders Intensive kills ringworm spores.
How do I use apple cider vinegar on my scalp?
- Mix a couple of tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with water.
- After shampooing and conditioning, pour the mixture over your hair evenly, working into your scalp.
- Let it sit for a couple of minutes.
- Rinse it out.
How can ringworm be prevented?
- 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.
Why do ringworms keep coming back?
After treatment, the rash will go away. But ringworm can return unless you follow steps to prevent it. The tendency to get fungal skin infections or to have them return after treatment seems to run in families.
Can garlic cure ringworm?
Garlic is often used to treat infection. Although there are no studies that examine the effects of garlic on ringworm, it has proven effective for other types of fungi, including Candida, Torulopsis, Trichophyton, and Cryptococcus.
What disinfectant kills ringworm?
Bleach diluted 1:10 will kill 80 percent of fungal spores with one application and any surface that can be bleached, should be bleached. It should be noted, however, that bleach cannot disinfect anything if there is any dirt or grime. General cleaning should always precede disinfection.