Ringworm: What It Looks Like and How to Treat It

Ringworm (tinea) is a common skin infection caused by fungi, not worms. It shows up as round, red, itchy patches with clearer skin in the middle. You can get it from other people, pets, or shared surfaces like gym mats and towels. The good news: most cases are easy to treat at home if caught early.

Symptoms and when to see a doctor

Look for a circular rash with raised edges and a pale center. It can appear on the body (tinea corporis), feet (athlete’s foot), groin (jock itch), scalp (tinea capitis), or nails (tinea unguium). Scalp and nail infections don’t respond well to creams and usually need a doctor. If the rash covers a large area, is painful, spreading quickly, or if you have a fever, make an appointment. Also see a doctor if you’re immunocompromised or the rash won’t improve after 2 weeks of proper treatment.

Treatment and prevention

For small body or groin rashes, start with an OTC topical antifungal cream like clotrimazole, miconazole, or terbinafine. Apply exactly as the product says and keep going for at least 1–2 weeks after the rash looks gone. Stopping early often lets the fungus come back. For athlete’s foot, use antifungal powder or spray to keep feet dry and wear breathable shoes and socks.

Scalp or nail infections usually need oral medicine (griseofulvin or terbinafine) prescribed by a doctor and can take weeks to months. If a cream isn’t working, or the infection is on the scalp, face, hands, or nails, get a medical consult. Don’t use steroid creams unless a doctor tells you to—steroids can hide symptoms and make the infection worse.

To stop spread, wash bedding and clothes in hot water and dry them on high heat when possible. Don’t share towels, hair brushes, hats, or shoes. Clean gym gear and mats after use. If a pet has a patchy, flaky area, take it to the vet—treating the animal often stops reinfection at home.

When buying antifungals online, stick to pharmacies you trust. Check that the site requires a prescription when appropriate, shows contact information, and has clear product details and reviews. If an online seller promises miracle cures or oddly cheap prescription pills, be cautious.

Most ringworm clears with the right antifungal and consistent care. If symptoms return, get checked again—sometimes a lab test or a different medicine is needed. Quick action and basic hygiene usually get you back to normal fast.