Fungal skin infections are very common, especially in hot, humid climates and in people who sweat a lot or share showers. Despite its name, ringworm is caused by a fungus, not a worm.
Imagine finally getting rid of that itchy, peeling skin between your toes, and keeping it away, by treating it properly and changing a few daily habits.
Common types
| Infection | What it looks like |
|---|---|
| Ringworm (tinea corporis) | A ring-shaped, scaly, itchy patch with a clearer centre |
| Athlete’s foot (tinea pedis) | Itchy, peeling or cracked skin between the toes |
| Jock itch (tinea cruris) | Red, itchy rash in the groin |
| Scalp ringworm (tinea capitis) | Scaly patches and hair loss, mainly in children |
| Fungal nail infection | Thick, discoloured, crumbly nails |
Treatment
- Antifungal creams, sprays or powders from a pharmacy, such as terbinafine or clotrimazole
- Continue for 1–2 weeks after the skin clears
- Scalp ringworm and nail infections usually need antifungal tablets prescribed by a health professional
- Avoid steroid creams on fungal rashes; they can make them worse
Prevention
- Dry skin carefully, especially between the toes
- Wear breathable shoes and change socks daily
- Wear sandals in shared showers and pools
- Do not share towels, combs or shoes
- Check pets for patches of hair loss; they can spread ringworm
See a health professional if the rash is spreading, does not improve after 2 weeks of treatment, affects the scalp or nails, or you have diabetes or weak immunity.
“But I can stop the cream as soon as the rash looks better.”
Fungal infections often return if treatment stops too early. Most creams should be continued for one to two weeks after the skin looks clear.
Your next step: Check your feet tonight, and keep an antifungal cream and separate towel ready if anyone at home has athlete’s foot.
Sources: NHS ringworm and athlete’s foot guidance; NICE Clinical Knowledge Summaries on fungal skin infections.
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