Patients
Frequently Asked Questions
Find Clear Answers to the Questions We Hear Most
Can I pass a dermatophyte infection to my family?
Yes. Dermatophytes can spread through direct skin contact and through shared items such as towels, bedding, clothing, or hairbrushes. Avoid sharing personal items, wash your hands after touching the affected area, and keep the area clean and dry.
Can my pet give me a fungal infection — or can I give it to them?
Yes, some dermatophytes can pass between people and animals, particularly cats and dogs. If your pet develops bald patches, scaling, or other skin changes, a veterinarian can check them and treat them if necessary. Washing your hands after handling an affected pet and cleaning bedding and frequently used areas can also help reduce spread.
How long will it take to clear up?
It depends on where the infection is and how extensive it is. Many uncomplicated skin infections are treated for around 2–4 weeks, while scalp infections may require treatment for several months, and nail infections can take much longer because a healthy nail has to grow back.
Can I treat it myself at home?
Some mild fungal infections of the skin can be treated with an over-the-counter antifungal treatment, depending on local recommendations. However, scalp and nail infections, widespread infections, or symptoms that do not improve should be assessed by a healthcare professional.
Will washing with soap make it go away?
Keeping the area clean and dry helps, but soap alone does not usually eliminate a dermatophyte infection.
Antifungal treatment may be needed to clear the fungus.
Can I get the same infection again?
Yes. Dermatophyte infections can come back, especially if the source of infection is still present or treatment is stopped too early. Treating affected areas fully and avoiding shared contaminated items can help reduce the risk of reinfection.
How can I avoid spreading it while I am being treated?
Try not to scratch the area, wash your hands after touching it, and avoid sharing towels, clothes, bedding, shoes, or personal items. Keeping skin dry and changing socks and underwear regularly can also help.
If it starts looking better, can I stop the treatment?
Not necessarily. Symptoms can improve before the infection has completely cleared. Continue treatment for the full period recommended by your healthcare professional or indicated in the medicine instructions.
Why do I need a test? Doesn't ringworm have a typical appearance?
Not always. Eczema, psoriasis, and several other skin conditions can sometimes look similar to fungal infections. A small skin, hair, or nail sample can help confirm whether fungi are present and guide the appropriate treatment.
When should I see a healthcare professional?
Seek medical advice if the infection involves the scalp or nails, is widespread or severe, keeps returning, or doesn’t improve with treatment. A healthcare professional can also check whether a fungus actually causes the symptoms.
- Still have Questions?
Take a look at our patient webpage for more detailed information about Dermatophyte Infections, or get in touch with us – we’re happy to support you.