What Are Fungal Infections of the Skin?
Fungal skin infections happen when fungus grows on the skin, scalp, or nails. These infections are common and can affect people of all ages. They often develop in warm, damp areas of the body where fungus can grow more easily.
Common types of fungal skin infections include yeast infections, ringworm, and tinea versicolor. While many infections are mild, some can spread or return without proper treatment.
Several factors can increase the risk of developing a fungal infection, including:
- Hot or humid weather
- Excess sweating
- Tight shoes or clothing
- Shared locker rooms, towels, or gym equipment
- Close contact with someone who has an infection
- Diabetes or a weakened immune system
- Antibiotic use
- Skin folds that trap moisture
Symptoms
Fungal skin infections can look different depending on the type and where they appear on the body. Symptoms may develop slowly or appear suddenly.
Common symptoms include:
- Itching or burning
- Red or irritated skin
- Flaking, peeling, or cracked skin
- Circular rashes
- Skin discoloration or patches
- Soreness in skin folds
- Thick or brittle nails
How Is It Diagnosed?
A healthcare provider can often diagnose a fungal skin infection by examining the affected area and discussing your symptoms. In some cases, a small skin sample may be collected for testing to confirm the type of fungus causing the infection.
Additional testing may include examining skin scrapings under a microscope or sending a sample to a lab for culture testing.
How Is It Treated?
Treatment depends on the type and severity of the infection. Many mild infections improve with antifungal creams, sprays, powders, or medicated shampoos.
If the infection is widespread, keeps returning, or affects the nails or scalp, prescription oral antifungal medication may be recommended. Your provider may also suggest steps to reduce moisture on the skin and prevent future infections.
Most skin infections improve within a few weeks with treatment, though nail infections can take several months to fully clear.
