Over the counter ringworm treatment for adults

Ringworm (tinea corporis) is a fungal infection affecting the top layers of your skin. It is caused by dermatophytes, a group of fungi that infect the uppermost layers of the skin and are responsible for many similar fungal skin infections. Ringworm is contagious and can be passed on through close contact with an infected person or infected objects such as bedsheets, combs or towels. It can occur anywhere on the body e.g. the torso, arms, legs and head. 

Ringworm symptoms

Common

You might have ringworm if you notice:

• Round patches of red skin with a red raised edge and a clearer centre
• Scaly, red, itchy patches of skin
• Single or multiple rings
• Patches that develop blisters or pustules

See a doctor

See your doctor if:

• There is ringworm on your scalp
• Your symptoms have not improved or worsened after treatment
• You have a weakened immune system e.g. from chemotherapy, steroids or diabetes
• You are pregnant or elderly. Anti-fungal medications might not be suitable for you and your doctor will be able to recommend the best treatment for you

Understanding ringworm

Ringworm usually appears on the skin as a red or silver rash in the shape of a ring. The ring or series of rings usually spread outwards as they progress, while the centre may heal and go back to your normal skin colour. Ringworm of the scalp or face may not be ring-shaped and may lead to patchy hair loss.

What causes ringworm

Ringworm is caused by a group of fungi called dermatophytes which infect the uppermost layers of the skin. It is contagious, and you can catch it through close contact with an infected person or contaminated objects like bedsheets, combs and towels. The fungi responsible for ringworm can easily enter the top layer of your skin if it becomes soft and wet from prolonged water exposure, or if you have minor injuries or abrasions. 

Who is at risk of getting ringworm?

You are more at risk of catching ringworm if you use changing rooms, public showers or swimming pools, as the fungi responsible thrive in moist and warm environments. You can also catch ringworm if you share hairbrushes or clothes with an infected person. 

Ringworm treatment

You can treat ringworm with easily applied anti-fungal products in cream or spray formulation. 

Anti-fungal ringworm creams and sprays treat the root cause of your ringworm infection. They’re easy to apply and normally contain anti-fungal ingredients such as clotrimazole. If you have ringworm of the scalp you may be prescribed an oral anti-fungal medication by your doctor. 

It’s best to treat ringworm as soon as possible to prevent it from spreading to other parts of your body or to other people. 

Canesten ringworm treatment

Canesten offers effective anti-fungal ringworm treatments which effectively treat your fungal infection. They are easy to apply and penetrate your skin to stop fungal growth, destroy the fungi and relieve your ringworm symptoms such as irritated and itchy skin. The treatments are available from your local pharmacy and supermarket pharmacies. 

• Canesten® Cream - This soothing Canesten cream contains the active anti-fungal ingredient clotrimazole which effectively treats your ring worm infection and relieves your symptoms.
• Canesten® Dermatological Spray - This convenient spray is ideal for hard to reach areas that may be infected with ringworm. Like the cream, it contains the active anti-fungal ingredient clotrimazole, to treat your ringworm infection and provide relief from your symptoms.

Remember! It is important to complete the whole course of treatment for effective ringworm treatment, even if your symptoms go away and it looks like the infection is clearing up.

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How to prevent ringworm

Avoid touching infected areas of your skin. This can spread the ringworm infection to other areas.

Keep your skin clean and dry.

Avoid using other people’s clothes, towels and brushes. Don’t share your belongings with other people if you have a ringworm infection.

Ringworm can affect animals, too! Get your pets checked for ringworm by a vet, especially if you notice missing patches of fur. Stay away from animals infected with ringworm.

Facts about ringworm

You don’t need to feel alarmed: despite its name, ringworm has nothing to do with worms!

Ringworm is a fungal infection and can be treated with an anti-fungal medication to get rid of the infection.

Ringworm is contagious and can be passed on through close contact with an infected person or infected objects such as bedsheets, combs or towels.

Learn more about skin and foot health

Fungal skin and foot care tips

Fungal skin infections are common but can be uncomfortable. Find out how good hygiene practice can help you avoid catching and spreading fungal skin infections.

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