Ringworm: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Medically reviewed by Harsha Moole, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 23, 2026.
What kind of doctor treats Ringworm?
A dermatologist, a doctor who treats skin conditions, can diagnose and treat ringworm. Many people also start with a primary care doctor or a pharmacist, and a doctor is needed for ringworm on the scalp. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What is ringworm?
Ringworm is a common fungal infection of the skin. It is not caused by worms. The name probably comes from the rash, which often has a ring-shaped pattern with a raised, scaly border.
Ringworm is common. Athlete's foot, jock itch, and scalp ringworm are all types of ringworm. Ringworm of the scalp is also called tinea capitis. It is caused by mold-like fungi called dermatophytes. These fungi can live on the dead tissue of the hair, nails, and outer skin layers.
Symptoms
The main symptom of ringworm is a rash. It may look red or darker than the surrounding skin, depending on your skin tone. The rash may be scaly, dry, swollen, or itchy. The itch can be intense.
Ringworm can appear on just about any part of the body. On the palms, soles, scalp, groin, and nails, the rash lacks the ring-shaped pattern.
Ringworm of the scalp can cause areas that:
- Are bald with small black dots from hair that has broken off.
- Have round, scaly skin that is red or swollen.
- May have pus-filled sores called kerions.
- May be very itchy.
Scalp ringworm may also cause swollen lymph nodes in the neck, which are small glands that help fight infection. It may cause permanent hair loss and lasting scars.
Causes and who gets it
Ringworm is caused by a type of fungi. It can be passed on through close contact with an infected person or animal. It can also spread through infected objects, such as bedsheets, combs, or towels. Infected soil can also pass it on, although this is less common. Pets, especially cats, can spread scalp ringworm.
Ringworm is contagious. The fungi grow well in warm, moist areas. Scalp ringworm is more likely if you have small injuries to the skin or scalp, do not bathe or wash your hair often, or have wet skin for a long time, such as from sweating. Scalp ringworm most often affects children, but it can occur at any age.
How doctors diagnose it
A pharmacist can look at the rash and recommend the best antifungal medicine. For ringworm of the scalp, a health care provider looks at the scalp for signs of ringworm.
Tests for scalp ringworm may include:
- A look at a skin scraping from the rash under a microscope.
- A skin culture, which checks whether fungus grows from a skin sample.
- A skin biopsy, which is rarely needed.
Treatment
Treatment for ringworm is important, no matter where it appears on the body. Without treatment, the rash tends to grow slowly and cover a larger area. You can also infect other areas of your body. Treatment can get rid of the ringworm and stop the itch.
The usual treatment is an antifungal medicine. This might be tablets, cream, gel, or spray, depending on where the rash is. You may need to use it every day for up to 4 weeks. It is important to use it for the right amount of time, even if the rash has gone away.
Ringworm on the scalp usually needs prescription antifungal tablets and shampoo. A provider prescribes medicine you take by mouth for 4 to 8 weeks. Medicated shampoo may slow or stop the spread of infection, but it does not get rid of ringworm.
Steps at home can help stop the spread:
- Start treatment as soon as possible.
- Wash towels and bedsheets regularly.
- Do not share towels, combs, or bedsheets with someone who has ringworm.
- Do not scratch the rash, because this could spread it to other parts of your body.
- Take your pet to the vet if it might have ringworm, such as if it has patches of missing fur.
It may be hard to get rid of scalp ringworm, and it may come back after treatment.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if:
- The ringworm has not improved after using the antifungal medicine a pharmacist recommended.
- You have ringworm on your scalp.
- You have a weakened immune system, for example from chemotherapy, steroids, or diabetes.
How a direct primary care or concierge doctor fits in
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. A direct primary care doctor can look at a rash, order tests such as a skin scraping, and prescribe medicine when needed. They can also arrange follow-up visits.
Common questions
Is ringworm caused by worms?
No. Ringworm is a skin infection caused by fungus.
Is ringworm contagious?
Yes. Ringworm is contagious, and treatment can also prevent you from spreading it to others. It can pass on through close contact with an infected person or animal, or through objects such as bedsheets, combs, or towels.
Can a child with ringworm go to school?
Yes. It is fine for your child to go to school or nursery once they have started treatment. Let your child's teachers know they have ringworm.
How long does ringworm treatment take?
You may need to use antifungal medicine every day for up to 4 weeks for ringworm on the skin. For ringworm on the scalp, you will need to take the medicine for 4 to 8 weeks.
Sources
- American Academy of Dermatology - Ringworm: Overview
- NHS - Ringworm
- MedlinePlus - Ringworm of the scalp
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
