Get Rid Of Ringworm Of The Scalp

It’s called ringworm by everyone you know, but tinea capitis, the medical term that’s used to describe those concerning scaly patches on the head that can appear out of the blue, has nothing to do with worms. Surprisingly, it’s actually caused by the same fungal infection that causes athlete’s foot. This highly contagious condition leads to itchy, bald patches on the head. While it can affect anyone with an immune system that has been compromised (if you are ill, run down, or suffer from a chronic condition), it is mostly young children that suffer from it.

How To Spot Ringworm

One of the most visible signs that someone has ringworm is when temporary bald patches form on the head. A parent may notice this when washing or drying the child’s hair.

Hair loss happens because when the fungus gets into the hair fibers it causes the hair to weaken. The exposed patches of skin can then form scaly, inflamed areas or puss-filled blisters. If the scalp becomes painful or very itchy it could indicate that it is infected.

How It Is Spread

You can contract ringworm if your skin, or in this case your scalp, comes into contact with the fungus on another person, or even a pet.

What To Do To Prevent Infection

Some of the environments you come into contact with daily could pose a risk of infection. If you are traveling on public transport, by spraying the headrests on seats with a sterilizer you will help prevent the fungus infecting you. When you visit your barber or hair stylist, ask if the equipment they use is adequately cleaned. Similarly, avoid sharing or borrowing hats and hair tools like brushes and combs, and be aware that bedding materials can also be sources of infection.
Because ringworm thrives in warm, humid conditions, it’s also crucial to keep your scalp clean and dry if you think you may be at risk. Avoid leaving your hair to dry on its own after washing it; use a hairdryer or towel dry as much as possible. Even heavy sweating can create a fungus-friendly environment.

Take care to remove excessive moisture continually if this is something you suffer from.
Remember, ringworm is highly contagious, so avoid passing it on to others in your household (including your pets) or you will continually be exposed to it and become infected again.

How To Treat Ringworm

Anti-fungal Shampoos

There are a number of products available on the market that will effectively treat ringworm of the scalp. Look on the back of the bottles or containers to check if they contain the recommended ingredients. Hair shampoo with selenium sulfide or ketoconazole will offer relief by removing the fungus from the scalp if used at least twice daily. Although family members may not be visibly infected, they will need to use the antifungal shampoo too to prevent recurring fungal infections in your environment. Hair combs and brushes used on infected hair to remove the fungal spores should be thrown out.

Vinegar

Thanks to its acidic nature, vinegar (apple cider or white) is effective in treating the fungal infection. It can be used by applying cotton wool soaked in vinegar to the patches on the scalp. Apply generous amounts 2 to 3 times a day for as long as the infection lasts.

Neem Oil

Extracted from the fruit and seeds of the Indian tree, neem oil is renowned for its numerous medical properties. While it can be used for fighting viruses, bacteria, easing pain and reducing inflammation, it is also a well-known anti-fungal. These factors make it ideal to treat the discomfort associated with ringworm and help eliminate the fungal infection. Use products that contain 100% neem oil, applying to affected areas, or take it in capsule form to support the healing process.

Garlic

Rubbing fresh, sliced garlic on infected areas, or taking it in supplement form, are other options as garlic also has natural anti-fungal and anti-bacterial powers. You can also make your own garlic paste by mincing it. Place this on the areas infected with ringworm for 30 minutes daily until it clears.

While these scalp ringworm treatments will all offer you relief, the most crucial part of treatment is to ensure you continually use them until the fungus is entirely eliminated.