Ringworm is a common fungal infection which results in a ring-shaped rash on the skin.
Talk to us about your health and we’ll recommend treatments that are tailored to you. Order ringworm treatment online with a subscription that you can cancel at any time.
Ringworm is a fungal infection that causes a rash on your skin. This rash is often ring-shaped (hence the name) and itchy.
A common type of ringworm is known as jock itch. This is where the fungal infection affects areas that are responsible for producing a lot of sweat, especially after you’ve been exercising. Fungi need warm, moist environments. This is why the warmest, most sweat-prone areas of the body are the most likely areas for a tinea infection to occur.
Fungal infections of any kind can affect a lot of people. However, those that have an impact on the body are more commonly seen in children and young adults. Fungal infections that affect the skin are seen more frequently in women, and those in the groin tend to be frequent in adolescents and young adult men.
There are also some risk factors that can increase the likelihood of you developing it. These include:
Ringworm is a reasonably common infection that affects a large number of people. Anyone is prone to be affected by it but if you have a weakened immune system you could be at an increased risk of infection and might also find it harder to treat. About 10-20% of people are likely to have ringworm in their lifetime.
How we source info.
When we present you with stats, data, opinion or a consensus, we’ll tell you where this came from. And we’ll only present data as clinically reliable if it’s come from a reputable source, such as a state or government-funded health body, a peer-reviewed medical journal, or a recognised analytics or data body. Read more in our editorial policy.
Ringworm is a contagious infection, so it’s spread when you come into contact with a person or animal that already has ringworm. It’s most easily spread through physical contact, but it can also be spread by sharing objects such as towels, hairbrushes and bedding.
The main characteristic symptom of ringworm is the rash. This is usually a ring-like red or silvery coloured rash on your skin, which causes your skin to look irritated around the ring, but healthy inside it. Your skin can also become scaly, itchy and inflamed.
There are more severe cases of ringworm in which the rings multiply, grow in size and then merge together. You might also find that the rings feel slightly raised and the skin underneath it can become itchy. Some people might also develop blisters and puss filled sores around the rings.
Ringworm can sometimes lead to other problems when you scratch the rash, as it can make it spread to other areas of your body. Some people suffer with face and neck ringworm which might not appear ring-shaped, but starts off itchy and swollen before becoming dry and crusted.
If you have a beard, you may notice patches of your beard hair beginning to break away. Hand ringworm can also develop, which causes the skin around your hand to become thicker on the palm and in between your fingers. It can affect one or both hands, and usually only ever appears on one side. If you have a weak immune system you can also develop a secondary infection.
How we source info.
When we present you with stats, data, opinion or a consensus, we’ll tell you where this came from. And we’ll only present data as clinically reliable if it’s come from a reputable source, such as a state or government-funded health body, a peer-reviewed medical journal, or a recognised analytics or data body. Read more in our editorial policy.
How we source info.
When we present you with stats, data, opinion or a consensus, we’ll tell you where this came from. And we’ll only present data as clinically reliable if it’s come from a reputable source, such as a state or government-funded health body, a peer-reviewed medical journal, or a recognised analytics or data body. Read more in our editorial policy.
Fungal skin infection - body and groin:
What are the risk factors? [online]. [Accessed 17 Nov. 2021].
Epidemiological trends in skin mycoses worldwide. Mycoses, 51, pp.2–15.
Effective antifungal treatment that you rub into your skin.
Registered with GMC (No. 4624794)
Meet Daniel
Registered with GPhC (No. 2202465)
Meet Sanjeda
Registered with GPhC (No. 2070724)
Meet Craig
Always read the leaflet that comes with your medication and tell us about any side effects you get.
We know health, but you know you.
Our experts tell you what’s safe, but you decide what’s best.
Answer a few questions and tell us about yourself. Get tailored advice from our clinicians so you can choose better.
Choose your treatment and how often you have it delivered.
We know things change. It’s the nature of life. We’ll check in regularly to make sure your treatment is still right for you.
Pause. Change. Skip. Start again. Any time you like.
Here are some other things we can help with.
Choose from our range of tablets and solutions. Get ongoing care and support from our experts.
Stop smoking treatments that can help you kick the habit forever, and reduce your risk of disease.
Tablets or injections. Tailored weight loss treatments combined with ongoing support from our experts.
We're making healthcare more about you. Sign up to our newsletter for personalised health articles that make a difference.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any questions or concerns about your health, please talk to a doctor.
If there’s a particular treatment or condition you’re looking for, tell us and we’ll look into it for you.
Submit your question here, or tell us if you’ve found an issue on our site.
We’ll get back to you very soon. We aim to respond to all queries in one working day.
You’re signed up to our newsletter. Keep an eye on your inbox for our latest update.
By clicking 'Subscribe now' you're agreeing to our Privacy Policy.
Secure delivery 
UK clinicians
