Ringworm—also called tinea, tinea corporis, or dermatophytosis—is a common skin infection caused by fungi. It usually results in ring-shaped rashes on various parts of the face or body. Depending on where the infection occurs, ringworm may also be referred to as athlete’s foot, jock itch, or scalp ringworm.

Anyone can get ringworm, but it is especially prevalent among children. Most people have a 10–20% chance of developing ringworm in their lifetime. Your risk increases if you live in a warm, humid climate, sweat often, or have pets.

Understanding the types, symptoms, causes, risk factors, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of ringworm can help you manage or avoid this contagious condition.

Types of Ringworm

Ringworm can affect various parts of the body, and the appearance of the infection varies depending on the location. While some areas develop the characteristic circular rash, others may present differently.

  • Beard area (tinea barbae): Causes itchiness, hair loss, and scaly patches with pus on the cheeks, chin, and neck.

  • Scalp (tinea capitis): Common in children, this type creates dry, itchy bald spots that are often discolored.

  • Feet (tinea pedis or athlete’s foot): Affects soles, heels, and areas between toes. Symptoms include dry, itchy, peeling skin, odor, and sometimes blisters or bleeding.

  • Groin (tinea cruris or jock itch): Leads to an itchy, red rash on the inner thighs, buttocks, and waist, and can include cracked or peeling skin.

  • Hands (tinea manuum): Often spreads from athlete’s foot and results in dry, cracked skin on the palms, sometimes affecting the nails.

  • Nails (tinea unguium or onychomycosis): Causes nails to become thick, discolored, brittle, and possibly detached from the nail bed.

Ringworm Symptoms

Symptoms typically appear within 4 to 14 days after contact with the fungus. Common symptoms include:

  • Ring-shaped rashes that gradually expand

  • Raised, scaly, or wavy edges

  • Itching, burning, or swelling in the affected area

  • Dryness, cracking, or thickening of skin

  • Discoloration—rashes may appear red, pink, brown, or gray

  • A central clearing in the rash, giving it a ring-like appearance

Symptoms may vary depending on the affected body part.

What Causes Ringworm?

Ringworm is caused by dermatophyte fungi, which thrive in warm, moist environments. These fungi can live on human or animal skin, household surfaces, and items like combs or towels. Infection can also occur from walking barefoot in public showers or by handling infected soil—though the latter is rare.

Risk Factors

Several conditions increase the likelihood of developing ringworm, such as:

  • Living in hot, humid climates

  • Sweating excessively

  • Having a weakened immune system

  • Having diabetes or a history of ringworm

  • Playing close-contact sports (e.g., wrestling, martial arts)

  • Living or working in crowded environments

  • Owning pets, especially cats, or working with animals

  • Having other skin conditions like ichthyosis

  • Sharing personal items like towels, razors, or athletic gear

  • Frequent use of public showers, saunas, or pools

How Is Ringworm Diagnosed?

A healthcare provider—often a dermatologist—can usually diagnose ringworm through a physical examination. They may ask about symptoms and risk factors, and in some cases, take a small sample of hair, skin, or nail tissue to confirm the diagnosis through lab testing. This helps distinguish ringworm from other similar-looking skin conditions. Lab results may be available immediately or take a few weeks.

Treatments for Ringworm

Treatment generally involves antifungal medications, available over-the-counter or by prescription. Common OTC options include:

  • Clotrimazole (Lotrimin)

  • Terbinafine (Lamisil)

  • Ketoconazole (Nizoral)

  • Miconazole (Micatin)

These creams, sprays, or powders are typically applied for 2 to 4 weeks. For more stubborn or widespread infections, a healthcare provider may prescribe oral antifungal medications.

Scalp ringworm often requires oral antifungals taken for up to three months. Prescription options include:

  • Terbinafine (Lotrimin)

  • Itraconazole (Sporanox)

  • Fluconazole (Diflucan)

  • Griseofulvin (Gris-PEG)

Antifungal shampoos may also be recommended to prevent spreading the infection to others.

How to Prevent Ringworm

Though not life-threatening, ringworm is highly contagious. To reduce the risk of infection or prevent spreading it:

  • Avoid sharing personal items like towels, clothing, and bedding

  • Wash hands thoroughly before and after touching pets

  • Keep skin dry and clean after sweating or bathing

  • Wear breathable, moisture-wicking clothing

  • Avoid walking barefoot in public showers, saunas, or locker rooms

  • Regularly wash clothes, underwear, and socks

  • Vacuum and disinfect areas where pets spend time

  • Use gloves and long sleeves when handling infected animals

  • Take pets with suspected ringworm to the vet promptly

Living With Ringworm

With proper antifungal treatment, ringworm typically clears up within two to four weeks. However, complications may arise if the infection is left untreated, especially in people with weakened immune systems. Possible complications include:

  • Skin discoloration (lighter or darker patches after healing)

  • Secondary bacterial infections

  • Inflammatory skin reactions like disseminated eczema

  • Psoriasis flare-ups

  • Deep fungal infections such as Majocchi’s granuloma, often resulting from inappropriate use of steroid creams

If symptoms persist or worsen, or if complications arise, consult a healthcare provider immediately for further treatment.