Fungal skin infection (ringworm)
Why it keeps coming back and how to treat it properly

Fungal infections of the skin — ringworm (tinea or “daad”), jock itch and athlete’s foot — are very common in hot, humid weather. Many people in India now have long-lasting or repeated infections, often because of incomplete treatment or the use of steroid creams. With the right medicine taken for the full course and simple hygiene, they can be cleared. The dermatologist at Charak Hospital, Lucknow can help.

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Dermatologist Skin scraping test when needed Correct course of treatment Advice for the whole family

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About fungal infection

What is ringworm?

Ringworm is not caused by a worm. It is a fungal infection of the outer skin that causes itchy, red, ring-shaped patches with a raised edge. It spreads by contact with infected people, pets, shared towels, clothes and bedding.

  • Common in groin, waist, buttocks, underarms, under the breasts and feet
  • Sweat, tight clothing and humidity help it spread
  • Steroid-containing creams make it worse and spread further
  • Family members are often affected too
  • Treatment must continue for some time after the rash fades

Right medicine

Antifungal cream, and tablets when needed.

Full course

Do not stop when itching stops.

Dry and loose

Cotton clothes, kept dry.

Treat together

Family members with symptoms too.

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Symptoms

Symptoms

Typical signs of fungal skin infection:

Ring-shaped patches

Red, scaly edge, clearer centre.

Itching

Often intense, worse with sweating.

Spreading rash

Patches grow or appear in new places.

Between the toes

Peeling and cracking (athlete’s foot).

Groin and thighs

Jock itch.

Nails

Thick, discoloured nails in nail infection.

Avoid creams that combine steroids with antifungals unless prescribed by a dermatologist. They can make the infection worse, harder to treat and thin the skin. Call 0522-666-4444.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis

Most fungal infections are diagnosed by looking at the skin.

Examination

Pattern and location of the rash.

Skin scraping (KOH test)

To confirm fungus under the microscope when needed.

Other tests

For long-standing or unusual cases, and to check for diabetes.

Treatment

Treatment

Treatment depends on how widespread and long-lasting the infection is.

Antifungal creams

Apply to the rash and a little beyond its edge, usually twice daily, for the period advised — often for 2 weeks after the rash clears.

Wash and dry the area firstWash hands after applyingUse separate towels

Avoid

  • Steroid creams without prescription
  • Stopping when itching stops
  • Sharing creams or towels

Itching

  • Antihistamine tablets may help at night
Prevention

Preventing fungal infection

General guidance — always follow the advice your own doctor gives you.

Clothes

Wear loose cotton clothes; change after sweating. Do not wear damp clothes.

Hygiene

Bathe daily and dry skin folds thoroughly.

Laundry

Wash clothes, towels and bedding separately in hot water and dry in sunlight.

Contact us urgently if

  • Rash with fever or pus
  • Rapidly spreading redness and pain
  • Infection in people with diabetes or low immunity not improving
0522-666-4444
Myths & facts

Myths about fungal infection

Tap a card to see the fact.

Myth

“Ringworm is caused by worms.”

Tap to flip
Fact

It is a fungal infection, not a worm.

Myth

“Any cream from the chemist will do.”

Tap to flip
Fact

Many combination creams contain steroids that worsen fungal infection.

Myth

“Once itching stops, treatment can stop.”

Tap to flip
Fact

Stopping early often leads to recurrence.

Your skin care

Dermatology

Dr. Shujat Ali, Dermatologist & Cosmetologist, Charak Hospital Lucknow
Dermatologist & Cosmetologist

Dr. Shujat Ali

MBBS, MD (Dermatology, Venereology & Leprosy)

Acne, eczema, psoriasis, infections, pigmentation, hair and nail problems. OPD: Monday to Saturday, 10 am – 5 pm.

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Dermatology Diabetes
Practical help

What to bring, costs & insurance

A little preparation helps us help you faster.

What to bring to your visit

Tick off as you pack:

  • All creams and tablets you have used
  • List of other medicines
  • Insurance card

Costs & insurance

Costs depend on the tests and treatment you need and the length of any hospital stay. Ask our team for a written estimate.

  • ✓Written estimate— ask for one before planned procedures or admission.
  • ✓Health insurance & TPA— cashless treatment for admissions under tie-up insurers; outpatient visits depend on your policy.
  • ✓Ayushman Bharat (PM-JAY) accepted for eligible admissions.
  • ✓Corporate & PSU panels— ask whether your employer has a tie-up with Charak Hospital.

*Coverage depends on your policy and the treatment. Our insurance desk can check this for you.

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FAQs

Frequently asked questions

Why does my fungal infection keep coming back?

Common reasons are stopping treatment early, steroid creams, sharing towels, damp clothes and untreated family members.

Is ringworm contagious?

Yes, through skin contact and shared items.

How long does treatment take?

Usually several weeks; longer for widespread or nail infections.

Can I use steroid creams for itching?

Not without a dermatologist’s advice; they often worsen fungal infections.

Glossary

Words you may hear

TineaThe medical name for ringworm infections.
KOH testA microscope test of skin scrapings.
DermatophyteThe type of fungus that causes ringworm.

No matching term. Please ask your doctor at your next visit.

Related pages

Related departments and guides

Dermatology Diabetes Health library

Itchy rash not clearing?

See our dermatologist. Call 0522-666-4444.

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Medical information disclaimer: This page provides general health information for patients and families. It is not a substitute for a consultation, diagnosis or treatment by a qualified doctor. Treatment decisions depend on each patient's individual condition. In an emergency, call 0522-666-4444 or go to the nearest emergency department.

About this page: Prepared by the Charak Hospital web team with the help of AI writing tools, using information from the Department of Dermatology & Cosmetology, Charak Hospital & Research Centre ·  Last updated: October 2026

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