Ringworm is a fungal infection that affects the skin in various places on the body, including the face. The infection causes a circular patch of red irritated skin that can be sensitive to the touch and itch. The red ring will often have a patch of healthy looking skin in the center, according to the Mayo Clinic. There are many anti-fungal creams and other over-the-counter treatments for this condition, but several home remedies exist using vinegar that will clear it up quickly.
Nightly Wash
Use a vinegar solution to clean the skin at bedtime to rid your body of ringworm. This home remedy can be used on ringworm infections on any part of the body and is easy to create and apply.
In a plastic container, mix one part apple cider vinegar, one part hydrogen peroxide and 10 parts water. Use this solution to wash the affected area of skin each night before bed, according to MyHomeRemedies.com. It can be used at other times to speed the process. This solution may also be used to wash the scalp for ringworm in that area, but those with color-treated hair should be aware of the color-stripping properties of peroxide.
Straight Application
Apple cider vinegar can be used without being diluted on ringworm-affected areas of the skin. This natural substance is a common cure for ringworm, athlete's foot and jock itch, which are all forms of the tinea infection.
Wash your face thoroughly and dry the skin. Use a cotton swab dipped in pure apple cider vinegar and rub the liquid around on the infected area of the face. It may sting a bit, depending on the severity of the infection, but the visible signs of the infection will likely be gone within days.
Another way to use this remedy is to apply the vinegar and then cover the affected area with toothpaste overnight to further dry the skin. Fungus needs moisture to survive.
Garlic and Vinegar
Garlic, like vinegar, has anti-fungal properties useful in fighting ringworm infections. Using them together can increase the potency of these common home remedies.
Slice a garlic clove and use it as a compress on the infected skin three times a day. Follow this application by washing the area clean using white vinegar, according to Natural-Homeremedies.com.
Prevention
There are not only an abundance of home remedies for ringworm, but there are preventive measures you can also take at home, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Keep the skin clean and dry as much as possible. Do not cover the skin with any kind of thick, heavy clothing during times of warm weather or high humidity, as this will encourage fungal growth.
Remember that pets and other people can transmit ringworm to you. Be cautious of playing with dogs or cats that appear to have skin problems or hair missing, and never use towels, brushes or other personal items of others who may be infected.
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