What Is Tinea Infection (Ringworm)?

Tinea infection, often called ringworm, is a common fungal infection that affects the skin, scalp, nails, or groin area. Even though the name includes “worm,” the condition is caused by fungus, not parasites.

Tinea infections spread through contact with infected people, animals, or contaminated objects such as towels, shoes, or combs. Fungi also thrive in damp environments like locker rooms, public showers, and pools.

Some factors can increase your risk, including:

• Warm or humid climates
• Excess sweating
• Wearing tight shoes or damp clothing
• Playing contact sports
• Sharing personal items
• Having a weakened immune system

The infection often creates a red, itchy rash that may look circular or ring-shaped. Tinea grows best in warm, moist environments and can spread easily through skin contact or shared personal items.

Symptoms

Symptoms can look different depending on where the infection develops on the body. Many people notice itching, redness, or scaling skin.

Common symptoms may include:

• Circular or ring-shaped rash
• Itchy, flaky, or scaly skin
• Cracked or peeling skin between the toes
• Burning or irritation on the feet
• Rash or itching in the groin area
• Patchy hair loss or scaling on the scalp
• Thick, brittle, or yellow nails

How Is It Diagnosed?

A healthcare provider can often recognize tinea infection during a physical exam by looking closely at the affected skin, scalp, or nails.

To confirm the diagnosis, your provider may gently collect a small skin, nail, or hair sample for testing. These samples can be examined under a microscope or sent to a lab to identify the type of fungus causing the infection.

Because other skin conditions can look similar, testing may help rule out problems such as eczema or psoriasis.

How Is It Treated?

Treatment depends on where the infection is located and how severe it is.

Many mild skin infections improve with antifungal creams, sprays, or powders. Keeping the affected area clean and dry is also important during recovery.

More stubborn infections, especially those involving the scalp or nails, may require prescription antifungal medicine taken by mouth for several weeks or longer. Some scalp infections are also treated with antifungal shampoos to help reduce spread.

To help prevent the infection from returning or spreading:

• Avoid scratching the rash
• Wash hands regularly
• Do not share towels, shoes, or grooming items
• Wear sandals in public showers or locker rooms
• Keep feet and skin dry

Most skin infections improve with treatment, but nail and scalp infections may take longer to fully clear.