Skin fungal infections: ringworm, white patches, athlete's foot, how to get rid of them
Round hairless patches on a child's head, lighter patches on the back and chest after the summer, or itchy folds under the breasts or between the thighs. These are fungal infections, caused by microscopic fungi. They thrive in heat, moisture, and sweat.
Treatments
- For the skin: antifungal creams (clotrimazole, miconazole, econazole, ketoconazole, terbinafine) are applied to the area and slightly beyond, once or twice a day. Continue for 1 to 2 weeks after the patches have disappeared, otherwise the fungal infection will return.
- Pityriasis versicolor is often treated with a foaming gel or ketoconazole shampoo applied to the body a few minutes before rinsing. It can take several weeks for the light patches to regain their color, even after the fungus is gone: this does not mean the treatment has failed.
- Scalp ringworm cannot be cured with cream alone: the fungus is in the hair root. It requires a course of tablets prescribed by a doctor for several weeks. It is contagious: combs, hats, and towels should not be shared.
🚨 The trap of mixed creams: many creams sold for "all skin problems" combine an antifungal, an antibiotic, and a powerful corticosteroid. The corticosteroid relieves itching for a few days, but it weakens the skin's defenses: the fungal infection spreads, changes appearance, and becomes harder to diagnose. Corticosteroids should be avoided for fungal infections.
Preventing recurrence
- Dry the skin thoroughly after showering, especially the folds and between the toes.
- Wear loose cotton clothing and change underwear and socks every day.
- Do not share towels, combs, razors, or shoes.
- Wash clothes and bed linen in hot water and dry them in the sun.
- Have your blood sugar checked if you have recurring fungal infections: diabetes makes you more susceptible.
- Treat household pets if they have hairless patches: they can transmit certain types of ringworm.
General information article written by the Mubina Essence team. It is not a substitute for the advice of a doctor or pharmacist. Have a question? Message us on WhatsApp.
