Overview
Ringworm is a widespread skin condition caused by tinea – a kind of fungus that lives on the skin’s dead tissues, including the hair and nails.
Ringworm is a highly contagious fungal infection that is characterized by a red, itchy, and scaly patch on the skin, and what’s worse, can spread anywhere on the skin, including the face, arms, legs, and even head.
Luckily, there are many ways to treat ringworm at home, albeit it is still important to see your doctor first.
We have written an ultimate guide about this skin condition and the most effective ways to treat it.
Continue reading to discover how to get rid of ringworm, and start living fungi free today!
10 Highly Effective Products for Treating Ringworm
There are many products for treating ringworm available these days, however, it’s tricky to find the one that truly works.
We’ve found the products, in our opinion, that truly works best – everything from ointments to powders to body wash.
Please keep in mind that this website does not provide medical advice. If you believe you have ringworm or any other fungal infection, talk to your doctor immediately.
1. EmuaidMAX© – Natural, Pain Relief Ointment, Maximum Strength
EmuaidMAX works with the natural resources of the body to relieve pain and fight inflammation that stimulates the bodies natural defense mechanisms, fighting off ringworm.
The unique mix of natural ingredients helps to improve blood circulation and promotes the healing of numerous irritated, damaged skin conditions, including ringworm.
The product also aids in combating fungal and bacterial infections – due to its high content of Vitamin E, Tea Tree Oil, and other various antifungal agents, EmuaidMAX soothes the skin, reduces inflammation, and destroys the fungal infection.
Moreover, EmuaidMAX contains 10 times more tea tree oil and 2 times more bacillus ferment than some other similar ointments.
This homeopathic ointment starts working even after a first application, aiding in relieving, repairing, and restoring damaged skin.
Plus, EmuaidMAX maintains the instant production of new, healthy skin cells, prevents scarring, and enhances the skin repair process.
This homeopathic ointment has been proven to treat up to 75 severe skin conditions, including ringworm. Click here to read our full review.
Click here to view EmuaidMAX on Amazon.com
2. Research Verified Ringworm Killer
One of the most effective and powerful ringworm treatments available on the market today, Research Verified Ringworm Killer is loaded with certain clinically proven ingredients.
Regular use of Research Verified Ringworm Killer helps to decrease the severity, frequency, and duration of the fungal infection, fighting ringworm.
The treatment offers the faster results than any other similar treatments available for relieving ringworm. It can provide a full care solution for alleviating ringworm, but in some cases, doctors prescribe additional medications.
Research Verified Ringworm Killer has absolutely natural ingredients, which quickly penetrate the skin and effectively kill the deeply rooted fungus.
Plus, it helps to soothe and prevent discomfort and pain caused by ringworm. 25% Undecylenic Acid in Research Verified Ringworm Killer is considered as one of the best ingredients that combat fungus, providing a full care solution for alleviating ringworm.
The best thing about Research Verified Ringworm Killer is that it sticks to the specific criteria, such as the highest quality ingredient content, the clinical studies, and the proper dosage.
Ringworm Killer was made in the United States in a cGMP certified and FDA registered lab, ensuring the quality of the product.
Research Verified Ringworm Killer doesn’t contain contaminants and all raw ingredients in the product are tested by the third party.
No artificial ingredients, preservatives, and additives are found in Research Verified Ringworm Killer. That’s the major reason why this treatment has little to no side effects.
Click here to view Research Verified Ringworm Killer on Amazon.com
3. Puriya Antifungal Cream Ointment
Used to treat Jock itch, Athletes foot, dry itchy skin, and ringworm, Puriya Antifungal Cream Ointment is another powerful antifungal agent to consider.
The advanced formula of this ointment helps to relieve and prevent itching, spreading, and irritation.
Puriya Antifungal Cream Ointment contains powerful antimicrobial, anti-fungal properties, which efficiently manages itching and reducing chronic inflammation on the body, face, feet, scalp, hands, fingernails, heels, and toenails.
Puriya Antifungal Cream Ointment is highly effective at the very first step of ringworm treatment, as it helps to alleviate irritation and redness of the infected area and stop further spreading of the infection to any other part of the body.
The Puriya Ointment contains the high amounts of therapeutic grade 100% Natural Tea Tree Oil, Lavender Oil, and Eucalyptus Oil, which deeply penetrate the scaly and dry skin and effectively moisturize it.
Apart from treating ringworm, the ointment can prevent annoying blisters and rash, flaky skin
The formula of Puriya Antifungal Cream Ointment features Olive Oil and Beeswax and stays on the affected area much longer than lotions, powders, creams, soaps, and body washes, which means it’s fighting bacteria and fungus for hours while repairing the skin.
Daily use of Puriya Antifungal Cream Ointment also helps to prevent recurrence of ringworm. Apply to the affected area each day to create a defense and alleviate future flare-ups.
This is particularly important for people who often visit a yoga studio, gym, public swimming pool, or a martial art studio.
Click here to view Puriya Antifungal Cream Ointment on Amazon.com
4. Purely Northwest Antifungal and Antibacterial Body Wash
While that may not be the major treatment of ringworm, Purely Northwest Antifungal Body Wash is incredibly helpful for people with ringworm infecting many parts of their body.
It can also be used for targeting specific areas as well and preventing the spread of the fungal infection.
This Antifungal, Antimicrobial, and Antibacterial body wash are packed with ingredients that fight bacteria, treat athlete’s foot, kill foot odor, and relieve the symptoms of ringworm.
Purely Northwest Antifungal Body Wash is 100% natural and contains a healthy mix of vitamins, natural essential oils, and other natural ingredients that cleanse your skin from bacteria without damaging it.
The organic ingredients in Tea Tree Antifungal and Antibacterial Body Wash, such as Aloe, Tea Tree Oil, Jojoba Oil, Peppermint, Oregano, Rosemary, and Eucalyptus Oil work well together to take care of the skin and combat bacteria and inflammation.
Not only does this body wash have a unique formula that cleanses the skin, but it also aids in keeping your skin hydrated. An added bonus: The body wash produces a lustrous and smooth glow even on the driest type of skin.
Click here to view Purely Northwest Tea Tree Antifungal And Antibacterial Body Wash on Amazon.com
5. Yellow Bird Peppermint & Tea Tree Soap Bar
Yellow Bird Peppermint & Tea Tree Soap Bar is great for treating Athlete’s foot, Acne, Ringworm, and other skin conditions. Not only does this soap helps to reduce discomfort caused by Ringworm, but also gives your skin a refreshed feeling.
The soap contains natural Cajuput Essential Oil and Tea Tree Essential oil, which both help to fight odors, reduce redness, and keep the affected area clear.
It can be used as hand soap, body soap, and face soap, and is good for all types of skin.
This soap bar is loaded with a lot of organic ingredients, which are mostly used to provide a potent and quick antifungal relief for ringworm, rashes, itchy and dry skin, and other conditions.
Most importantly, the castile soap is ideal for sensitive skin as it doesn’t irritate it.
Manually manufactured in the United States with all-natural, gentle, vegan, and skin-friendly ingredients, Yellow Bird Soap Bar doesn’t contain any chemicals, parabens, sulfates, alcohol, synthetic fragrances, or artificial dyes.
Click here to view The Yellow Bird Peppermint & Tea Tree Soap Bar on Amazon.com
6. Maple Holistics Pure Tea Tree Oil Shampoo
If you’re suffering from tinea capitis or ringworm of the scalp, Maple Holistics Pure Tea Tree Oil Shampoo is an awesome solution.
This sulfate-free hydrating cleanser helps to relieve dry flaky and itchy scalp and can even help to prevent thinning hair and head lice.
It enhances healthy hair regrowth and growth for more luscious and strong locks. The special formula of the shampoo alleviates hair loss, thinning and shedding of the hair.
Maple Holistics Pure Tea Tree Oil Shampoo keeps your scalp hydrated, combats bacteria, and helps you get rid of pesky flakes. It is perfect for sensitive skin and those suffering from long-term dandruff.
The shampoo contains natural Australian tea tree essential oil, jojoba oil, botanical keratin, vegetable glycerin, provitamin B5, lavender essential oil, argan oil, and rosemary essential oil.
These all-natural ingredients combine perfectly together to detox the scalp and reduce the symptoms of tinea capitis.
Click here to view Maple Holistics Pure Tea Tree Oil Shampoo on Amazon.com
7. MICRO-GUARD Antifungal Powder
MICRO-GUARD Antifungal Powder is best for treating Jock’s itch, Athlete’s foot, and Ringworm that has developed in skin folds and other damp areas.
It provides a quick relief and helps to ease the pain, burning, itchiness, and other issues associated with ringworm.
MICRO-GUARD Antifungal Powder works great under the skin folds and contains 2% Miconazole Nitrate that aids in effective treatment of ringworm.
Apply topically to the affected skin a few times a day to fight bacteria and speed up the healing process.
Click here to view MICRO-GUARD Antifungal Powder on Amazon.com
8. Derma-Nu Antifungal & Anti-Itch Tea Tree Oil Lotion
Derma-Nu Antifungal & Anti-Itch Tea Tree Oil Lotion has been created for the dry, itchy, and irritated skin as well as a number of skin conditions like ringworm.
The lotion boasts an incredible combination of hydrating botanicals, skin soothing and healing Aloe Vera, and the skin repairing pure essential oils that create a powerful treatment for numerous skin issues and conditions.
This therapeutic lotion contains 100% organic essential oils, such as Eucalyptus, Tea Tree, Peppermint, Oregano, Lavender, and others, providing a greater relief for skin discomforts.
Since Derma-Nu Antifungal Tea Tree Oil Lotion doesn’t contain harmful chemicals, fragrances, artificial ingredients, preservatives, and dyes, you have a reduced risk of experiencing any side effects.
The antibacterial, anti-itch, and antifungal properties provide a quick soothing effect and ease the symptoms of ringworm.
The therapeutic lotion is particularly effective for treating ringworm of the feet or Athlete’s foot. It helps to combat embarrassing foot odor and bacteria while keeping your feet moisturized.
If you’re prone to excessive sweating, this antifungal lotion is a must-have.
Click here to view Derma-Nu Antifungal & Anti-Itch Tea Tree Oil Lotion on Amazon.com
9. Fine Vine Antifungal Tea Tree Oil Body Wash
Another body wash that showed the phenomenal results in managing ringworm, Fine Vine Antifungal Tea Tree Oil Body Wash helps to keep most skin irritations at bay.
Regular use of this body wash will help to wash away bacteria and prevent fungus, which is responsible for Athlete’s foot, body odor, ringworm, Jock Itch, nail and toenail fungus, acne, yeast, and other skin irritations.
Thanks to its pure tea tree formula, Fine Vine Antifungal Tea Tree Oil Body Wash cleanses the skin without damaging it. That’s why it’s an ideal choice for those with highly sensitive skin.
Manufactured in the USA, Fine Vine Antifungal Tea Tree Oil Body Wash doesn’t include synthetic scents or preservatives and thus doesn’t trigger allergic reactions.
Furthermore, it has amazing hydrating and cleaning properties. It helps the damaged skin to repair and heal quicker with a healthy layer of moisture.
Although the body wash doesn’t contain any synthetic scents, it still has an energizing scent of the tea tree essential oil, keeping your body fresh and odor-free all day long.
Once you treat ringworm, you can keep using this body wash each day to prevent the reoccurrence of the skin condition. It’s good for all types of skin, including a sensitive one.
Click here to view Fine Vine Antifungal Tea Tree Oil Body Wash on Amazon.com
10. Phytozine Organic Antifungal Ringworm Cream
Creams have got a bad reputation for being too “creamy” and “oily” to use during the day. However, they’re super powerful in treating and eliminating bacteria and infections.
Phytozine Organic Antifungal Ringworm Cream is approved by FDA and has been proven to treat most forms of ringworm.
The cream provides immediate relief by attacking the fungi that trigger ringworm of the scalp and skin.
The results of regular cream usage are visible in about 7 days.
Unlike other treatments, Phytozine Organic Antifungal Ringworm Cream has been specifically created to combat ringworm infections.
Click here to view Phytozine Organic Antifungal Ringworm Cream on Amazon.com
What Are The Most Common Types Of Ringworm?
Also called as dermatophytosis, ringworm is a skin disorder that spreads by a skin-to-skin contact and can develop in the following forms of:
• tinea corporis – ringworm of the skin
• tinea capitis – ringworm of the scalp
• athlete’s foot – ringworm of the feet
• jock itch – ringworm of the groin area
Many people do not realize that athlete’s foot and even jock itch are types of ringworm – they view it as a separate infection altogether.
Unfortunately, this makes many people downplay the significance of a ringworm infection, allowing it to fester and then eventually spread.
Once the infection has spread it becomes significantly harder to treat, so if you believe you have ringworm, start using an over-the-counter solution as soon as possible.
The Major Causes Of Ringworm
Ringworm is caused by a group of parasitic fungi called dermatophytes. When dermatophytes come into contact with the skin, they tend to start multiplying. That’s when the infection grows. Ringworm is usually contracted by:
• Soil-to-human. Although it’s a rare transmission, it’s becoming possible to get ringworm from contact with infected soil.
• Animal-to-human. People owning cats and dogs are more likely to develop ringworm, albeit other animals can have ringworm too.
• Object-to-human. If you use an item – be it a comb or a towel – that was used by a person who suffers from ringworm.
• Human-to-human. The skin-to-skin contact with someone who has ringworm can also increase your risk of infection.
There are other risk factors though, which include:
• Wearing tight pieces of clothing;
• Weak immune system;
• Living in a warm climate.
At the end of the day, it can be extremely difficult to pinpoint exactly where your fungal infection originated. There are fungi around us all of the time, and most of the time it is benign.
The only thing we really can do it take steps to prevent ringworm from developing, and treat ringworm if you believe you already have developed it.
The Symptoms Of Ringworm
The most common symptoms of ringworm are:
• red, itchy, scaly, and raised skin bumps or patches;
• skin patches that trigger a development of blisters or begin to ooze;
• skin patches with defined and raised edges;
• skin patches, which resemble a ring and are redder and itchier on the outside edges.
11 Natural Remedies to Treat Ringworm
When conventional treatments don’t help or you’re more into natural remedies, you can relieve the symptoms and even heal a certain form of ringworm with the following natural remedies:
1. Antibacterial Soap and Lukewarm Water
When you can’t find antifungal soap, a regular antibacterial one can do the trick.
While this soap won’t help to cure ringworm, it will keep the affected area clean and prevent the spread of the rash.
Before you apply any of homemade remedies (listed below), make sure you wash the affected area with lukewarm water and antibacterial soap.
Dry the affected area thoroughly after each washing. If you have a highly sensitive skin, use pine or chamomile homemade soap instead of antibacterial one.
2. Tea Tree Oil
As you’ve noticed, Tea Tree Oil is the main ingredient in nearly every product that treats ringworm – this is because it is a powerful anti-fungal agent.
You can purchase 100% organic tea tree oil and use it as a natural remedy. Many people apply pure tea tree oil directly to the affected area, but it’s safer to dilute it with coconut oil or any other carrier oil.
Apply it 2 to 3 times during the day until ringworm disappears.
3. Apple Cider Vinegar
Known for its powerful antifungal properties, apple cider vinegar may also help you cure ringworm. It’s applied topically at least 3 times during the day.
Just soak a cotton ball or a piece of cloth in raw apple cider vinegar (best if it’s homemade) and slightly press the cotton ball over the affected area. If your skin is sensitive, dilute apple cider vinegar with water.
4. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is another common item that has anti-fungal elements. It boasts potent anti-fungal and anti-microbial properties and has been used for centuries to treat different forms of infections, including ringworm and candida.
Even though coconut oil is mostly used for treating scalp ringworm, you can apply it topically to the affected area – but if you have never used it topically, make sure you are not allergic to it.
Warm a bit of organic coconut oil in your hand or microwave oven until liquid and apply 3 times during the day.
5. Aloe Vera
Organic Aloe vera has been used for years as an effective natural remedy for fighting fungal and bacterial infections, including ringworm.
It helps to soothe and relieve the symptoms of ringworm, such as itchiness, discomfort, and inflammation.
There are many ointments with aloe vera available today, but it’s best to use homemade aloe vera gel. Apply it directly to the affected area at least 3 times per day.
6. Turmeric
Renowned for its astonishing health benefits, turmeric can treat ringworm thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial abilities. It also has antifungal properties and is effective in inhibiting bacteria growth.
Mix freshly ground turmeric or powder with a small amount of warm water and stir until you get a paste.
Now apply this paste to the affected area and leave for 5 minutes or until it dries. Enhance the healing process by drinking turmeric tea or water each day.
7. Oregano Essential Oil
Pure oregano essential oil has potent antifungal properties and can treat and inhibit fungal skin infections, such as ringworm – especially athlete’s foot.
Combine a few drops of this essential oil with a carrier oil, like coconut or olive oil, and using a cotton ball apply it to the affected area 3 times daily.
8. Powdered Licorice
With its potent antimicrobial properties, licorice can be used as a ringworm treatment too. The extracts found in licorice have been shown to successfully cure fungal infections.
Bring to a boil 8 teaspoons of powdered licorice mixed in a cup of warm water. When boiling, lower the heat, simmer for 10 minutes stirring until it becomes a paste.
Remove from the heat and let it cool. Once it’s cool, apply it to the affected area 2 times per day. Leave the mixture on for 10 minutes and rinse off.
9. Lemongrass Essential Oil Or Tea
The lemongrass oil extract and freshly brewed lemongrass tea boast antifungal and antibacterial properties, making both of them great remedies for treating ringworm at home.
Combine 2 to 3 drops of lemongrass essential oil with some carrier oil and apply it to the affected area 2 times during the day.
Or, you can apply a cotton ball soaked in a freshly brewed lemongrass tea or tea bag to the affected area for 5-10 minutes 2 times per day.
10. Myrrh Essential Oil
If you’re lucky to find myrrh essential oil, it can also help you cure ringworm. Mix a few drops with coconut oil and apply directly to the affected area 2 times during the day.
11. Grapefruit Seed Extract
The last but not the least ringworm remedy is grapefruit seed extract. It’s mostly used to treat ringworm on the scalp or body, but can also be effective for other forms.
Mix 1 to 3 drops of grapefruit seed extract with a tablespoon of warm water and place a cotton ball soaked in the mixture to the affected area 2 to 3 times during the day.
Is Ringworm Caused By A Worm?
This is a common misconception due solely to the name – no, ringworm is not actually due to a worm.
In actuality, it is caused by fungi that usually enter through a tiny cut or open wound and then spread throughout the skin.
Is Ringworm Contagious?
What many people do not realize is that yes, ringworm is highly contagious both for your own body and for other peoples.
If left untreated, your ringworm can develop into athletes foot, nail fungus, jock itch, and even spread to your head or face.
It can also spread to your children or loved one if left and untreated, so make sure you start treating your ringworm as soon as possible.
What Else Should I Do To Help My Jock Itch?
In addition to applying a topical or powder solution and using antifungal body wash, there are a number of things you should do to help get rid of your jock itch once and for all.
Firstly, make sure you wash your linens and clothing as often as possible. It may sound excessive, but if you can wash your sheets and clothing every day or so, you can destroy the remaining fungal spores and prevent reinfection.
Additionally, watch out for any signs that your ringworm is spreading. Check your nails and feet daily for any signs of discoloration, itchiness, cracking, and scaling – this could signify athletes foot or nail fungus.
If you believe your ringworm has spread, start treating it immediately.
Conclusion
There you have it! Our ultimate guide on how to get rid of ringworm.
Ringworm is a serious skin condition as it’s highly contagious, but luckily, there are plenty of ways to treat and prevent it.
Make sure you consult a doctor before trying any products or remedies mentioned above.
Please keep in mind that this website does not provide any medical device. We wish you the best of luck with your ringworm fighting journey.
I am the founder of DestroyNailFungus, and I do my best to provide comprehensive guides on health and wellness.
When I’m not running the site, I enjoy spending time outdoors and drinking coffee.