How to Treat and get rid of Ringworm: Ringworm is a highly contagious skin infection primarily caused by the fungus known as Trichophyton rub rum. It thrives in cold and dry conditions and can infiltrate the body through direct contact with infected surfaces, most commonly affecting the feet and potentially spreading to other areas.
This infection typically manifests as circular, scaly patches on the skin, often accompanied by itching. Not only is ringworm unsightly, but it can also be quite uncomfortable and persistent.
Fortunately, there are several effective methods to swiftly and effectively address this condition. Let’s explore some strategies for quickly getting rid of ringworm.
What Does a Ringworm Look Like?
Ringworm produces a rash characterized by scaly, crusty patches, which can resemble round, red marks on the skin. Additional indications of ringworm encompass areas of hair loss or flakiness on the scalp, itching, and the presence of blister-like sores.
Causes of Ringworm
Ringworm, despite its name, isn’t caused by worms. Instead, it’s a fungal skin infection brought about by microscopic parasites called dermatophytes, which reside on the outer layer of your skin.
Ringworm can be contracted through various means, including:
- Direct Contact: Coming into contact with an infected person’s skin.
- Pets: Your pets, like cats or dogs, can transmit ringworm to you if they are infected.
- Contaminated Objects: Brushing against surfaces or objects that harbour the fungus.
- Contaminated Soil: Contact with soil that contains the fungus responsible for causing ringworm can also lead to an infection.
Home Remedies to Permanently Get Rid of Ringworm
Ringworm is a common fungal infection caused by a contagious fungus called tinea. It can be transmitted through direct contact with an infected person, a pet (like a dog or cat), or contaminated objects. It typically manifests as a red, itchy, circular rash.
While there are medications available to treat ringworm, there are also effective home remedies. Here are some home remedies that may help you get rid of ringworm for good:
- Garlic: Create a paste by crushing a garlic clove and mixing it with olive or coconut oil. Apply this paste to the affected area, leaving it on for about two hours before rinsing. Repeat this process twice daily until the symptoms disappear.
- Soap: Clean the infected area with soap and water to prevent the infection from spreading. Ensure the area is thoroughly dried after cleaning, as fungi thrive in moist environments.
- Aloe Vera: Apply aloe vera gel to the affected area. Aloe vera has cooling properties that can soothe the infected skin, reducing itchiness. It also possesses antifungal, antibacterial, and antiviral properties.
- Turmeric: Turmeric is a spice known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Mix it with water or coconut oil to create a paste and apply it to the affected skin. Let it dry before wiping it off.
- Tea Tree Oil: Dilute 12 drops of tea tree oil with 1 ounce of cold-pressed carrier oil, such as coconut oil. Apply this mixture three times daily.
- Lemongrass Oil: Lemongrass oil has been shown to reduce the activity of various types of fungi. Mix a few drops of lemongrass oil with a carrier oil and apply it directly to the skin twice a day.
- Coconut Oil: Warm coconut oil until it becomes liquid, then apply it directly to the affected area. Coconut oil has antimicrobial and antifungal properties that can help treat ringworm.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Soak a cotton ball in undiluted apple cider vinegar and rub it over the affected skin three times daily. Apple cider vinegar possesses strong antifungal properties.
These are all home remedies that have the potential to effectively eliminate ringworm.
Want to Get Rid of Ringworm Fast and Permanently?
The type of treatment for ringworm that’s suitable for you depends on how severe the infection is and where it’s located in your body.
In addition to the home remedies mentioned earlier, there are other treatments available for ringworm that can help you eliminate the infection for good.
If the infection is primarily on your skin, your doctor will likely recommend over-the-counter fungal creams, lotions, or powders such as Clotrimazole, Miconazole, Terbinafine, and Ketoconazole.
For cases where ringworm affects your scalp, the doctor may prescribe an oral antifungal medication and suggest using an antifungal shampoo. These oral medications need to be taken for a period of 1 to 3 months and can include Fluconazole, Griseofulvin, Terbinafine, and Itraconazole.
How Apple Cider Vinegar Helps Eliminate Ringworm
Apple cider vinegar is a product made by fermenting crushed and aged apples. It’s a commonly used home remedy for ringworm because it has potent antifungal properties. To treat a skin infection, you can apply undiluted apple cider vinegar to the affected area using a cotton ball.
If you have a foot or toe fungus, you can soak your feet in a mixture of one cup of apple cider vinegar and water.
Does Lysol Kill Ringworm?
Lysol is a brand of disinfectant that effectively kills viruses and bacteria. It is commonly used to disinfect hospitals, homes, and other spaces. However, it’s important to use Lysol as directed because it can be toxic to humans if not used properly.
Lysol disinfecting sprays can kill 99.9 percent of the fungus Trichophyton mentagrophytes, which is one type of fungus that can cause ringworm. Unfortunately, many other types of fungus can also cause ringworm on different parts of the body.
Getting Rid of Ringworm Scars Permanently
After a bout of ringworm infection, you may be left with scars on your skin due to persistent itching and scratching. These scars can be unpleasant and distressing, but there are ways to address them:
- Laser Treatment: This method involves destroying parts of the affected skin tissue, promoting the growth of new, unscarred skin.
- Dermabrasion: For severe cases, a plastic surgeon can perform dermabrasion. It involves using instruments to sand down and remove the disfigured skin. This is typically a last resort for deep scars.
- Microdermabrasion: A dermatologist gently removes the surface layer of the skin in a clinical setting. This helps smooth the skin and even out its tone.
- Regular Exfoliation: You can also try exfoliating the affected skin two or three times a week. Natural home ingredients like lemon juice or baking soda can be used. Over-the-counter exfoliants with hydroxy acids may also help.
When is Ringworm no Longer Contagious?
Ringworm is highly contagious and can spread through direct skin-to-skin contact with an infected person, as well as by touching the person’s clothing or any items they have come into contact with.
However, it’s important to note that ringworm is contagious only when there are active lesions on the skin. It ceases to be contagious approximately 24 to 48 hours after treatment has started.
How to Stop Ringworm from Spreading
Here are the Dos and Don’ts you have to follow to stop the spread of ringworm:
Dos:
- Start treatment promptly.
- Regularly wash towels and bed sheets.
- Maintain clean skin and always wash your hands after handling animals or soil.
- Thoroughly inspect your skin if you’ve had contact with an infected person or animal.
- Take your pet to the vet if you suspect they have ringworm.
Don’t:
- Avoid sharing towels, bed sheets, or combs with someone who has ringworm.
- Refrain from scratching a ringworm rash, as it could spread to other parts of your body.
Our ultimate advice for permanently getting rid of ringworms is to prioritize good hygiene. This will not only protect you from harmful fungi but also prevent their spread to those around you.
