One of the latest concerns in the media is the appearance of ringworm on the head. Linked to the shaving of the scalp in certain hairdressers and barbershops. This has created a great expectation as to what it is, how to avoid it and how to fight it in case of suffering from this skin infection.

First we will define ringworm. The U.S. National Library of Medicine defines it as “a skin infection caused by a fungus.” It most often occurs in various patches on the skin. It usually occurs to a greater extent in children although adults can suffer from it in the same way. This is transmitted by contact from one person to another or with items such as combs, shaving machines, clothing, or surfaces such as showers or swimming pools.

The place where ringworm thrives the most are warm, humid areas. It can proliferate in different parts of the body such as scalp, beard, feet, groin, and other parts of the body.

Ringworm on the head

To determine if you suffer from ringworm on the head you should go to a doctor, who can perform different tests such as a scraping on the affected skin, a skin culture, or a biopsy (necessary on less occasions). The results will come days later, and you can start treatment.

Oral ringworm medication is taken by mouth and can be taken for 4 to 8 weeks. In addition, you will need to keep your scalp clean and wash it with a medicated shampoo. You should also take care of the hair of other cohabitants, with special care in children and pets.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How can I avoid ringworm infection?

The best way to avoid ringworm infection is to seek hygiene in the external elements. That is, go to a hairdresser or barbershop that ensures the disinfection of work tools, be careful in swimming pools and changing rooms, using protective elements and do not use towels or garments together with other people.

Would ringworm infection lead to a hair transplant?

Ringworm is a skin infection that should not lead to a hair transplant. The treatment against it will be administered orally. 

Dr. Espinosa Custodio works at Instituto Médico del Prado, his hair clinic in Madrid, and performs hair transplants in Mexico, twice a year. If you would like to make an appointment, you can contact us on +34 912 468 664, on WhatsApp +34 627 396 322 or on the contact page of our website. From Mexico you can contact us at +52 55 4590 9909.