Ringworm Images on the Head: What to Know

Scalp ringworm is a fungal infection affecting the skin and hair shafts. Pictures can show round or uneven areas of scaling, grey or black dots where hairs break close to the scalp, or inflamed patches. Similar changes can come from eczema, psoriasis, bacterial infection, or another hair disorder, so appearance alone is not a diagnosis. Tender swelling, pus, or a soft raised area can signal a stronger inflammatory reaction. Hair commonly grows back after the infection is treated, although severe inflammation can injure follicles.

Arrange a dermatology or primary-care assessment, especially when scaling and hair loss occur together. The clinician may examine the scalp and use a sample of scale or hair to identify fungus. Scalp infection often needs prescription medicine taken by mouth because creams do not reach infection inside hairs. Do not share combs, hats, pillows, towels, or hair tools. Wash these items regularly, avoid scratching, and check household members or pets for suspicious patches. Read about [Ringworm](/conditions/ringworm/) and [Oral Antifungal Treatment](/treatments/medical-dermatology/oral-antifungal-therapy/).

Seek prompt medical care for a painful boggy swelling, pus, spreading redness, fever, swollen neck glands, or rapidly increasing hair loss. Children with a suspected scalp infection should be assessed rather than treated from a photograph. Urgent review is also sensible if the scalp becomes very tender or you feel unwell.

Ask: Could this be a fungal infection or another scalp condition? Is testing needed? Does the hair loss look temporary? How should household items and close contacts be managed? Which symptoms should trigger an earlier review?