Over-the-counter ringworm medication: what to know

Pharmacy products are generally intended for fungal infection on the skin surface. Ringworm often causes an itchy, scaly, enlarging rash, but eczema and contact irritation can look similar. A steroid-only cream can hide redness while allowing a fungal infection to continue, so ask a pharmacist or clinician before combining products or treating an uncertain rash.

Read the label, apply the medicine to clean, dry skin as directed, and wash your hands afterwards. Keep the area dry and avoid sharing towels, clothing or gym equipment. Do not put a skin product in the eyes or on broken skin unless advised. If the rash is on the scalp, nails or beard area, topical self-care may not be enough and medical assessment is appropriate.

Seek review if the rash is spreading, painful, infected-looking, recurrent or unchanged after the labelled course. Get prompt advice for a rash near the eyes, on the scalp, or in someone with reduced immunity. A clinician can confirm whether the problem is ringworm and select oral antifungal treatment when skin treatment cannot reach the affected site.

Is an over-the-counter product suitable for this body site? Could another rash explain the scaling? Should I avoid steroid creams? How long should I continue treatment, and what should I do if the rash returns?