Understanding ringworm: causes, symptoms and treatment options

If you notice a red, itchy, circle-shaped rash on your skin, you might wonder if it’s ringworm. Despite its name, ringworm isn’t caused by a worm at all. It's a common fungal infection — and the good news is, it’s treatable. Let’s break down what ringworm is, what it looks like and when you should get it checked out by a doctor.
What is ringworm?
Ringworm is a skin infection caused by a fungus, not an actual worm. It’s known for causing a red, itchy, circular rash that often looks like a ring (that’s how it got the name ringworm).1
Is ringworm contagious?
Yes, ringworm is contagious. You can catch it from another person, an animal (like a dog or cat) or even from touching contaminated objects, like gym equipment or shared towels.1,2 It spreads easily, which is why treating it quickly is important.
What causes ringworm?
Ringworm happens when a type of fungus called a dermatophyte grows on your skin, hair or nails.2 These fungi thrive in warm, moist places. This is why you're more likely to get ringworm if you sweat a lot, have small skin injuries or live in a hot, humid place.
You can get ringworm by:1
- Skin-to-skin contact with someone who has it
- Touching contaminated surfaces or objects
- Contact with infected animals
- Walking barefoot in locker rooms or around swimming pools
What are common ringworm symptoms?
The most common sign of ringworm is a red, scaly and often itchy rash. But depending on where it shows up on your body, it might look a little different.
What does ringworm look like?
Ringworm often shows up as:1,2
- A red, circular or ring-shaped rash with clearer skin in the middle
- Raised, scaly or cracked patches
- Itchiness, sometimes intense
- Patches that can grow larger over time
On the scalp, ringworm might cause bald patches. On the feet, it can cause cracking and peeling skin between the toes and may include soles and heels — known as “athlete’s foot.” Effected toenails and fingernails may become thick and discolored.
Can you get rid of ringworm?
Yes, you can absolutely get rid of ringworm. The sooner you start treating it, the faster it goes away.
Ringworm treatment
How you treat ringworm depends on how bad your symptoms are and where you’re infected.2 For mild cases involving the skin, you can often treat ringworm at home with over-the-counter antifungal creams, lotions or powders. These medicines kill the fungus and stop it from growing.2 You’ll want to use the medicine exactly as directed — usually for 2 to 4 weeks — even if the rash looks better before you’re done. Avoid over-the-counter creams with steroids or corticosteroids, which can make ringworm worse.2
For ringworm on your scalp or nails, a doctor may prescribe antifungal pills, since topical remedies are not effective for these types of infections.1,2
Ways to help prevent ringworm
To lower your chances of getting ringworm:1,2
- Keep your skin clean and dry
- Change socks and underwear daily
- Avoid sharing personal items like towels, clothes and hairbrushes
- Wear shoes in public showers and locker rooms
- Wash your hands after playing with pets
- Treat your pets if they show signs of ringworm (like hair loss or crusty spots)
When to see a doctor for ringworm
See a doctor if you’re not sure the rash is ringworm or if:2
- The rash doesn’t get better after using over-the-counter treatments for two weeks
- The rash develops in multiple areas
- You see signs of a secondary infection, such as redness and swelling
- You have a weakened immune system
A doctor can easily tell if it's a rash by looking at it or doing a simple test. They can also give you stronger treatments if needed.