Ringworm is a scaly rash that presents itself in a circular, or ring-like, pattern, giving it its name. The fungus that causes the rash, trichophyton rubrum, is the same fungus that is responsible for athlete's foot and jock itch. As such, treatment is the same for all of these conditions. If you have ringworm, you will want to treat the condition as it is extremely contagious. While there are many over-the-counter products you can buy to treat it, there are also a few at home remedies to kill the fungus and wipe the rash out. Here are a few ways you can treat ringworm at home.
Garlic
Garlic contains both anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. This makes it an effective remedy for treating a variety of conditions, including ringworm. When rubbed on the skin, the anti-fungal properties found in garlic help to kill the fungus that is causing ringworm. This helps to prevent it from spreading while also killing the fungus to slowly eliminate the rash. To use garlic on your ringworm rash, peel away the skin from a clove of fresh garlic. While wearing gloves, rub it directly on your skin, coating the area in a layer of garlic. Discard the clove and the gloves to prevent the spread of the fungus. Repeat this process a few times a day for the best results.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar has anti-fungal properties. This helps to kill the fungus that is causing ringworm. Dampen a soft cloth, paper towel or cotton ball with apple cider vinegar. Then, using a gloved hand, rub the apple cider vinegar-soaked item into the affected area of your skin. Be aware that apple cider vinegar is acidic and you may feel a burning sensation if your skin is raw from the rash or you have sensitive skin. As such, this may be a bit too harsh to use on children. Repeat the process multiple times a day until the rash begins to dry up and eventually disappears altogether.
Lavender Essential Oil
The last way you can treat ringworm at home is with lavender essential oil. Lavender is another item that has anti-fungal properties, helping to kill the ringworm. Mix 10 drops of pure lavender essential oil with a teaspoon of olive oil and rub it into the affected area three times a day. Allow the oil to soak into the skin before going about your normal activities. This mixture will not burn when used with a carrier oil and has a pleasant scent, making it a great option for babies and small children. Repeat this process for up to ten days to kill ringworm.
Lavender essential oil, apple cider vinegar, and garlic are three of the items you can use to treat ringworm at home. If you have attempted to get rid of ringworm on your own for 10 to 14 days and are not making any progress, you will want to make an appointment with your doctor or a dermatologist. Some strains of ringworm are harder to treat than others and may require a prescription to rid the fungus from your body. Contact a clinic like Refined Dermatology to learn more.
Share27 February 2017
While I wasn't fond the reason I had to visit a dermatologist when I was a teenager (I had severe acne that she helped me manage), I feel lucky to have had the experience of visiting a dermatologist and learning just what they can do to help me have great-looking skin. I wasn't happy when I got my first wrinkle at about 30; my acne had just cleared up, and I wanted to enjoy having skin I finally loved for at least a few years! With a little more help from my dermatologist, I am now in my 50s, and many people think I am much younger than I am due to the amazing anti-aging treatments my dermatologist gives me. I want to teach what I have learned about skincare to others who need the advice, so please come back often for new skincare tips!
