Tinea Corporis on the Face

Facial ringworm may form a round or uneven patch with a more active scaly edge, itch, dryness, or gradual outward spread. It may not form a perfect ring, particularly on the face. Eczema, contact irritation, and other rashes can look similar, so appearance alone cannot confirm the cause.

Avoid sharing towels, pillowcases, cosmetics, or face cloths. Wash hands after touching the area and avoid scratching. See [Ringworm](/conditions/ringworm/), [Skin Rash](/symptoms/skin-rash/), and [Scaly Skin](/symptoms/skin-scaling/) for related information.

A clinician may recommend a [Topical Antifungal Treatment](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-antifungal-therapy/) for limited facial infection. More extensive, persistent, or difficult-to-treat disease may need [Oral Antifungal Treatment](/treatments/medical-dermatology/oral-antifungal-therapy/). Use the medicine on the schedule given and keep it away from eyes and lips unless instructed otherwise.

Do not use a steroid cream alone on a suspected fungal rash, because it can change the appearance and allow infection to spread. Keep the area gently clean and dry, and pause irritating products until the diagnosis is clearer.

Arrange review if the rash is near the eye, spreading quickly, painful, oozing, swollen, or not improving with the advised treatment. Seek urgent help for eye pain, vision change, marked facial swelling, or fever.

Ask whether the rash needs testing, which product is safe near the eyes, how long to continue treatment after improvement, whether contacts or pets need review, and how to prevent recurrence.