Developing a red, itchy rash is common especially when we experience insect bites. However, a red, itchy rash could also be indicative of ringworm or “buni“– a skin infection. In this article, learn how to cure ringworm fast.
What Is a Ringworm Infection?
Despite its name, a ringworm infection doesn’t involve any type of worm. Instead, it’s caused by dermatophytes, a type of fungi.
To identify if you have a ringworm infection, you need to check your skin for red splotches or rash. Usually, the circular (ring-shaped) rash is scaly and has a raised or wavy border. It can also be itchy, but in some cases, it’s not.
Where can you find these rashes? Doctors say the rashes can appear anywhere on your body. It can be on your:
- Torso, arms, and legs
- Feet (more known to us as Athlete’s foot)
- Fingernails and toenails
- Groin (this causes Jock itch)
- Scalp
- Face
How To Cure Ringworm Fast
First, it is important to know that this infection is highly contagious. It can spread to the different parts of your body or to other people through physical contact. Here are some specific scenarios where you could transmit the fungi:
- You scratch an infected area and then touch another body part.
- You touch an infected area and then touch another person.
It’s also possible to transmit the fungi by using contaminated items (fomites), such as socks, shoes, towels, and clothes. Thus, avoid sharing clothes and accessories.
1. Use topical treatment
How do you cure ringworm fast? The best way to cure ringworm fast is through medication. Your doctor will most likely prescribe you an antifungal cream or lotion which you can apply directly to the affected area.
Usually, you need to apply the cream or lotion twice a day, morning and evening. Although the rashes will start subsiding in a few days after continued application, the doctor may advise you to keep using the cream for a full month to make sure that the infection will not recur.
Doctors recommend that you need to apply the lotion or cream beyond the border of the rashes. Once you see the rashes subside, experts say the ringworm is no longer contagious.
Note: when applying the topical treatment, use a cotton ball or tissue. This is so you can avoid spreading the infection to other parts of your body.
2. Clean and dry the rashes thoroughly
Another important remedy on how to cure ringworm fast is to keep the affected areas clean and dry. This is because the fungi thrive well in a warm, moist environment.
Clean the rashes using soap and water and then dry them completely.
Here’s a key reminder: you must have a separate towel for the infected area – don’t use the same towel for the rest of your body.
Additionally, the towels you use to dry the rashes should be washed in hot, sudsy water before you use them again.
