Ringworm of the Skin - Home Treatment

SYMPTOMS & TREATMENTS

In most cases, you can treat ringworm of the skin with antifungal creams or ointments. Many are available without a prescription. Use a nonprescription antifungal cream with miconazole or clotrimazole in it. Brand names include Micatin, Tinactin, and Mycelex. Terbinafine cream (Lamisil) is also available without a prescription.

  • Wash the rash with soap and water, and dry thoroughly. For large areas of blistered sores, use compresses such as those made with Burow's solution (available without a prescription) to soothe and dry out the blisters.
  • Apply antifungal cream beyond the edge or border of the rash.
  • Follow the directions on the package. Don't stop using the medicine just because your symptoms go away. You will probably need to continue treatment for 2 to 4 weeks.
  • If symptoms do not improve after 2 weeks, call your doctor.

If your rash does not clear after you have tried different topical antifungals, or if the infection is widespread, you may need prescription antifungal pills.

If you have both athlete's foot and ringworm of your groin or legs, you should treat both infections. This will prevent you from re-infecting your legs or groin with the athlete's foot fungus, when you put on your underwear.

By: Healthwise StaffLast Revised: March 8, 2011
Medical Review: Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Alexander H. Murray, MD, FRCPC - Dermatology

1995-2011 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.

Advertisement

See All News

Advertisement
  • Join
  • About iVillage
  • Message Boards
  • Contact Us
  • Advertising Info
  • Jobs
  • Sitemap
  • Terms of Service
  • Privacy Policy
  • AdChoices
© 2000-2013 iVillage Inc. All rights reserved. A Division of NBCUniversal