How to Kill Ringworm on the Face

Facial ringworm is caused by a fungal infection. Dermatophytes are microorganisms that survive by feeding off of skin cells within the outer layer of your skin. This feeding results in a ring-like marking upon your face. Ringworm can be caught various ways, which include skin-to-skin touching, infected pets or objects contaminated with the fungus. Treatments are usually based on topical ointments to eradicate ringworm.

Things You'll Need

• Non-scented facial soap
• Hand towel
• Antifungal cream

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Instructions

• 1

  Cleanse the affected area gently, with an unscented facial soap. The use of scented cleansers can exacerbate symptoms, such as itching and flaky skin. Pat your face dry.

• 2

  Apply a thin layer of antifungal cream that contains clotrimazole or miconazole, as suggested by the U.S. National Library of Medicine. Many creams containing these ingredients can be purchased over-the-counter.

• 3

  Spread antifungal creams an inch past the edge of the affected area. Avoid bandaging the affected area; bandages encourage moisture, which can spread the fungus.

• 4

  Ask your physician for a stronger topical cream if over-the-counter creams don't work. Creams such as terbinafine or ciclopirox will eradicate facial ringworm.

• 5

  Take oral antifungal medications when prescribed by your physician. Oral medications are prescribed when other treatment methods don't work.