How To Use Hydrogen Peroxide For Ringworms

Allow the power of this natural antiseptic to effortlessly relieve your itchy patches.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Vindhya L Veerula, MD, FAAD
Written by Sucharita Mishra, MSc (Biotechnology)
Edited by Arshiya Syeda, BA (Literature & Psychology), PG Diploma
Fact-checked by Swathi E, MA (English Literature), Certified Skin Care Coach  • 

Ringworm infection is one of the most common fungal infections that people have to deal with. If you see red, pus-filled patches on your skin that spread to other parts of your body, chances are you have a ringworm infection. The good news is, you can use hydrogen peroxide for ringworms to alleviate the symptoms. In this article, we explore ringworm infection and how hydrogen peroxide is effective in treating ringworms.

What Is A Ringworm Infection?

Ringworm infection on hand
Image: Shutterstock

Dermatophytosis, which is commonly known as ringworm, is a fungal infection. It affects various parts of the body, such as the scalp, legs, toenails, and fingernails (1). Ringworm is a contagious infection and can spread easily from person to person. In some cases, ringworm infection can be contracted from animals. Domestic pets, like cats, dogs, or guinea pigs, can be carriers of this infection (2).

A research study conducted on 4,156 US adults found that 114 participants (2.7%) reported having a ringworm infection, 415 (10.0%) revealed having a fungal nail infection, and 37 reported both in the past year. Male participants had a ringworm infection more often than female participants (64.0% vs. 48.2%).

After contracting the infection, one can spot red and itchy spots on their skin. These patches are ring-like in appearance. Scratching is not the best solution as it can cause the infection to spread. If this infection is not treated in the first instance, it can recur. This is where hydrogen peroxide can help.

Does Hydrogen Peroxide Kill Fungus?

Hand in gloves holding a beaker of Hydrogen peroxide
Image: Shutterstock

Hydrogen peroxide has antibacterial, fungicidal, and sporicidal properties (3). These properties may help in disinfecting the affected area and preventing the spread of infection.

Hydrogen peroxide may help in eliminating ringworm infection with regular use. The treatment period may vary depending on the severity of the case.

How To Use Hydrogen Peroxide To Treat Ringworms

Hydrogen peroxide and cotton cleansing pad to treat ringworm
Image: IStock

As mentioned earlier, hydrogen peroxide is a readily available formulation. You may easily procure it from a local chemist. It is also an inexpensive yet effective method that may treat ringworm infection.

A visit to your nearest chemist will show you that hydrogen peroxide is available in varying strengths. For treating ringworms, however, you may need to use a 3% solution.

Dr. Farnsworth adds, “Hydrogen peroxide is toxic to bacteria and fungi, but also to normal skin cells. The prevailing recommendations are to only use hydrogen peroxide to clean out wounds with dirt or other debris in them, or to help remove dried blood. But even then, it should be diluted 1:1 with clean tap water. Full-strength or consistent use of peroxide can actually delay healing by killing the cells trying to heal a wound.”

To administer hydrogen peroxide, you will need a sterile cotton ball. Dilute the solution according to the sensitivity of your skin. Consult your doctor to know how much you need to dilute the solution. Soak a cotton ball in the diluted solution. Apply this to the infected area and leave it on for a while. You may do this a few times daily until you see the ringworm infection subside.

protip_icon Quick Tip
You can mix hydrogen peroxide with coconut oil and apply it to the affected area. Coconut oil has antimicrobial and antifungal properties that may help treat ringworm (4).

Just like peroxide, you can also use rubbing alcohol.

He adds, “Rubbing alcohol strips the skin of its natural protective lipid barrier, leaving the skin dry, cracked, and ironically more susceptible to infection. Large and prolonged exposures can also permit systemic absorption, which is particularly dangerous with isopropyl alcohol.”

Note: Hydrogen peroxide may cause slight skin irritation. It may also cause a stinging sensation on the surface of your skin. If you have sensitive skin, you might experience slight discomfort. In some cases, using a higher quantity of the solution may cause the skin in the affected area to go a little white for a short while. Hence, make sure you talk to your doctor before using this remedy.

Let’s explore some alternative remedies that might be used to treat and cure the issue of ringworm.

Does Neosporin Help With Ringworm?

Person applying antifungal ointment on foot
Image: Shutterstock

Neosporin is an antibiotic ointment that is used to treat minor skin injuries. Although there is no significant research connecting neosporin to the treatment of ringworm, it is believed that neosporin might help control the ringworm infection at an early stage.

Apart from Neosporin, you can use Miconazole, another antifungal medication to treat ringworm  (5).

Other Alternatives For Treating Ringworm

Person giving bedsheet for wash in the washing machine to prevent ringworm
Image: Shutterstock
  • Use an antifungal shampoo to clean out your scalp thoroughly (6).
  • Clean your hands and fingernails thoroughly with antibacterial soap.
  • If you have contracted an infection, let the infected area breathe by not covering it up with tight clothing.
  • Make sure to keep your bed covers washed and cleaned.
  • Take a shower after your gymming or workout sessions.
  • Do not share clothes, towels, or bed sheets with the infected person.
  • Change your socks and underwear daily. Put on socks only after washing your feet and drying them completely.
  • You can use a prescription antifungal ointment, cream, or lotion (7).

Dr. Farnsworth adds, “For those looking for a home remedy for ringworm, diluted white vinegar is often promoted as a nonspecific antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory agent. White or apple cider vinegar typically comes in a concentration of 4%-7% acetic acid, with higher concentrations exclusively reserved for household cleaning or agricultural uses. When 4%-7% vinegar is diluted with 4-6 parts tap water, it can have both antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects with little risk of damage to the skin, but responses are not terribly consistent or reliable.”

protip_icon Quick Tip
You can also use essential oils made from satureja, turmeric, Mexican tea, palmarosa, and ajwain. They have antifungal properties that may help treat a ringworm infection (8).

Scroll down to learn about the medical treatments your doctor may recommend to treat a ringworm infection.

Medical Treatment For Ringworm

Some of the commonly listed medical treatment for ringworm include (9):

  1. Antifungal Creams: These over-the-counter creams like miconazole, clotrimazole, or terbinafine are often the first line of treatment. It can be applied to the body, feet, and groin.
  1. Prescription Medications: If the infection is severe or widespread, the doctor may prescribe stronger antifungal medication in the form of creams, lotions, or oral tablets.
  1. Antifungal Shampoos: For a ringworm infection on the scalp, medicated shampoos with ketoconazole or selenium sulfide may be recommended. Use as directed by the healthcare provider.
  1. Topical Steroids: In some cases, topical steroids are prescribed to reduce inflammation and itching. However, they should be used under medical supervision, as they may worsen fungal infections if not used correctly.

Infographic: Steps To Use Hydrogen Peroxide To Treat Ringworms

Do you have any red, itchy, ring-shaped patches on your skin? You might have a ringworm infection! But don’t worry! Hydrogen peroxide comes to your rescue! Its components may aid in cleaning up the afflicted region and stopping the spread of infection and inflammation.

Read the infographic below to learn how to apply hydrogen peroxide to your skin.

steps to use hydrogen peroxide to treat ringworms (infographic)

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Get the high-quality PDF version of this infographic.

Download Infographic in PDF version

The usage of hydrogen peroxide for ringworms alleviates the symptoms and eliminates the infection. It is one of the inexpensive methods to treat ringworm infection and also other microorganisms like viruses (10). A 3% solution of hydrogen peroxide is generally used to treat ringworm infections. You can dip a cotton ball in the diluted solution and apply it to the affected area. However, a doctor can guide you on the correct dilution rate and process. You can also use antifungal shampoo for treating ringworm infection. In addition, maintaining personal hygiene helps to reduce the risk of infection.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hydrogen peroxide harmful to the skin?

Yes. Hydrogen peroxide can be harmful to the skin in higher concentrations, causing irritation, blistering, and burning.

Will hydrogen peroxide stop itching?

Anecdotal evidence suggests that it can help soothe itching due to insect bites, skin infections, etc. if used in the recommended dosages.

Can you bathe in hydrogen peroxide?

Yes. You can prepare a hydrogen peroxide bath by mixing it with water in safe concentrations.

Key Takeaways

  • Ringworm is a fungal infection that commonly affects fingernails and can be contracted via pets.
  • Hydrogen peroxide is an antifungal agent that may help eliminate ringworm.
  • Dilute the hydrogen peroxide solution with some water and apply it to the affected area a few times daily.
  • Practice caution as hydrogen peroxide may cause skin irritation.

Discover expert tips on preventing and treating ringworm rash in this informative video. Arm yourself with seven effective strategies for a healthier, ringworm-free life by clicking on this video.

References

Articles on StyleCraze are backed by verified information from peer-reviewed and academic research papers, reputed organizations, research institutions, and medical associations to ensure accuracy and relevance. Read our editorial policy to learn more.

  1. Weitzman, I, and R C Summerbell. “The dermatophytes.” Clinical microbiology reviews vol. 8,2 (1995): 240-59.
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC172857/
  2. Pasquetti, Mario et al. “Infection by Microsporum canis in Paediatric Patients: A Veterinary Perspective.” Veterinary sciences vol. 4,3 46.
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5644651/
  3. Baldry, M. G. C. “The bactericidal, fungicidal and sporicidal properties of hydrogen peroxide and peracetic acid.” Journal of Applied Bacteriology 54.3 (1983): 417-423.
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/6409877
  4. Khalid Thebo, Nasreen et al. “Antifungal Potential and Antioxidant Efficacy in the Shell Extract of Cocos nucifera (L.) (Arecaceae) against Pathogenic Dermal Mycosis.” Medicines (Basel, Switzerland).
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5456225/
  5. Rotta, Inajara, et al. “Efficacy of topical antifungal drugs in different dermatomycoses: a systematic review with meta-analysis.” Revista da Associação Médica Brasileira (English Edition) 58.3 (2012): 308-318.
    https://www.scielo.br/scielo.php?pid=S0104-42302012000300010&script=sci_arttext&tlng=en
  6. Fuller, L C et al. “Diagnosis and management of scalp ringworm.” BMJ (Clinical research ed.) vol. 326,7388 (2003): 539-41.
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1125423/
  7. Jain, Neetu, and Meenakshi Sharma. “Broad spectrum antimycotic drug for the treatment of ringworm infection in human beings.” Current science 85.1 (2003): 30-34.
    https://www.jstor.org/stable/24107708?seq=1
  8. Abd Rashed, Aswir et al. “Antifungal Properties of Essential Oils and Their Compounds for Application in Skin Fungal Infections: Conventional and Nonconventional Approaches.” Molecules (Basel, Switzerland).
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7922942/
  9. Treatment for Ringworm, Centre For Disease Control And Prevention
    https://www.cdc.gov/fungal/diseases/ringworm/treatment.html
  10. Caruso AA et al. “Hydrogen peroxide and viral infections: A literature review with research hypothesis definition in relation to the current covid-19 pandemic.” Med Hypotheses.
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7262503/
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