You can typically get rid of a ringworm infection with over-the-counter (OTC) antifungal treatments. Certain cleaning practices at home may also help speed recovery.

A ringworm rash can be uncomfortable, but it is common and treatable. Early intervention is critical to prevent the infection from spreading to others.

Here are six ways to treat ringworm.

In most cases, you can treat ringworm at home. OTC antifungals can kill the fungus and promote healing. Effective medications include:

  • miconazole (Cruex)
  • clotrimazole (Desenex)
  • terbinafine (Lamisil)

After cleaning the rash, apply a thin layer of antifungal cream to the affected area twice a day or as the package directs.

Spread the treatment beyond the border of the rash and allow the medication to absorb into your skin.

Learn more about home remedies for ringworm.

It may seem logical to keep ringworm covered with a bandage to prevent the spreading of the infection. However, bandaging the rash locks in moisture and slows the healing process.

It’s important to keep the area dry, so wear comfortable, breathable clothes to speed healing and avoid spreading the rash to other people. This includes loose-fitting, long-sleeve shirts and pants.

Because ringworm is highly contagious, you should wash your clothes and sheets daily to eliminate the infection faster.

Fungal spores can transfer to your sheets and comforter. If you sleep on the same sheets night after night, it can take longer for ringworm to heal, and the infection can spread to other parts of your body.

Use hot water and detergent when washing bedding and any infected clothes.

Some people add borax or bleach to their wash along with regular laundry detergent.

You can purchase borax and bleach from a grocery store, and they also kill fungal spores. Follow the directions on the packaging.

If ringworm develops on your feet or groin area, keep these areas dry.

If you sweat a lot during the day, bathe with an antifungal wash and then reapply your antifungal powder or lotion. Make sure the area is completely dry before putting on a new pair of underwear or socks.

Sometimes, ringworm develops on the scalp. This is called tinea capitis.

Symptoms of a fungal infection on the scalp include:

  • severe itching
  • patches of hair loss
  • scalp boils
  • severe dandruff

Scalp fungus almost always requires oral medications.

If you have ringworm on your scalp, you can also wash your hair with an OTC medicated antifungal shampoo.

These shampoos kill fungi on the scalp and stop inflammation. You can purchase them from a grocery store or drugstore.

Look for shampoos with antifungal active ingredients, such as selenium sulfide and ketoconazole. Use shampoos according to the directions on the package.

Your doctor may recommend prescription antifungal medications if symptoms do not respond to home remedies or OTC treatments.

Contact your doctor if the rash doesn’t disappear after 2 weeks of home treatment. A ringworm infection that doesn’t improve or that spreads may require a prescription-strength topical cream or oral antifungal medication.

Take the prescription medication as directed by your doctor. Depending on the severity of the infection, you may have to take it for weeks or months.

What kills ringworm quickly?

Antifungal medications should treat ringworm quickly. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist for more information about how long treatment should take.

Will ringworm go away on its own?

It’s possible for ringworm to go away on its own, but this could take a long time. You should start treatment for ringworm as soon as possible.

Home remedies for and over-the-counter treatments for ringworm include topical antifungals and antifungal shampoos. Letting the rash breathe, cleaning clothing and bedding, and keeping the area dry can also help.

If symptoms do not respond to these remedies, your doctor may recommend prescription medication. Contact your doctor if symptoms do not improve within around two weeks. Your doctor can confirm the diagnosis and advise on suitable treatments.