How to Recognize Ringworm in Children

Ringworm is a fungal infection that can appear anywhere on the body and is frequently found in warm areas such as the groin and arm pit, though it can be found on any body part. Ringworm can be picked up through skin-to-skin or indirect contact through clothing, hair brushes and locker rooms.

Things You'll Need

• Black light (optional)

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Instructions

Identify area

• 1

  In a brightly lit area, closely examine the infected spot. If it is raised on the edges in a ring shape and pink in color it is probably ringworm.

• 2

  Optional step: Observe the area under a black light. Ringworm will glow a greenish color; this is especially useful if you are observing an area with a lot of hair, such as a person's scalp.

• 3

  Treat ringworm with over-the-counter medication.

Treat infection

• 4

  You can treat most ringworm infections with a mild topical cream that has miconazole or clotrimazole as a main ingredient (such as a cream used for jock itch or athlete's foot).

• 5

  You must apply this cream twice a day until the infection disappears.

• 6

  While treating the infection, make sure to use high heat to wash and dry all clothing and sheets to avoid getting reinfected.