Ringworm vs. eczema: What’s the difference?

While they may share similar symptoms, ringworm and eczema are two different conditions with distinct causes and treatments. Ringworm is a highly transmissible fungal infection that a person can acquire through contact with individuals or animals who have the infection.

Ringworm infection can affect the skin, nails, and scalp, while eczema is a chronic, non-transmissible inflammatory skin condition.

Learning the differences between ringworm and eczema — including their symptoms, causes, and treatment options — can help you to manage the condition effectively.

Eczema overview 

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is an inflammatory skin condition that causes discoloration, itching, and skin inflammation. While it can occur in adults, it is most common in children.

Eczema usually appears as patches of dry, scaly, and itchy skin on different parts of the body, but it also commonly appears on the face, neck, elbows, wrists, and knees.

The symptoms of eczema can vary from person to person and range from mild to severe. Common symptoms include:

• discolored, inflamed skin
• intense itching
• dry, scaly, or rough patches of skin
• crusty or oozing blisters
• thickened, leathery skin
• darkened or hyperpigmented skin in the affected area

The symptoms can also look different in people with different skin colors. For example, it can cause red patches in people with lighter skin tones, while the patches might look brown or gray in people with darker skin.

The exact cause of eczema is unknown, but a combination of genetic and environmental factors may play a role. Common triggers for eczema flare-ups include:

• irritants such as soaps, detergents, and cleaning products
• allergens such as dust mites, pet dander, pollen, and mold
• dry skin
• certain metals like nickel
• stress
• extreme temperatures or humidity
• certain foods or food additives
• hormonal changes

Eczema treatments

Treatment for eczema usually involves a combination of strategies to manage symptoms and prevent flare-ups. The strategies may include the following:

• moisturizing the skin regularly
• avoiding triggers
• taking oral medications such as antihistamines or steroids to reduce inflammation and itching
• having phototherapy or light therapy for severe cases

Consider speaking with a dermatologist or another healthcare professional to develop an individualized treatment plan that addresses your specific symptoms and triggers.

Ringworm overview 

Ringworm is a common fungal infection that can occur anywhere on the body, but it most commonly affects the scalp, feet, groin, and nails.

Despite its name, a worm does not cause ringworm infection but a group of fungi known as dermatophytes. They infect the outer layer of the skin, causing the infection. Dermatophytes thrive in warm, moist environments such as public showers, swimming pools, and locker rooms.

The symptoms of ringworm can vary depending on the location of the infection. But it usually appears as a circular rash with raised, red edges and clear skin in the center. 

In addition to this, other common symptoms of ringworm include:

• red, scaly patches on the lighter skin
• itching and burning sensation in the affected area
• a ring-shaped rash with raised edges and a clear center
• cracked, scaly, or brittle nails (if the infection is in the nails)
• bald patches or a scaly, inflamed scalp (if the infection is in the scalp)

It’s important to note that the color of ringworm might be less noticeable on darker skin. Research also shows that images of different skin conditions on darker skin are underrepresented in searches online, so being aware of all the symptoms is important.

Factors that can increase the risk of developing ringworm include:

• Close contact with individuals or animals who have the infection: Ringworm is highly transmissible, and people can contract it by direct contact with individuals or animals who have the infection.
• Weakened immune system: People with weakened immune systems, such as those who are HIV positive or who have contracted AIDS or have cancer are more susceptible to ringworm infection.
• Sharing personal items: Sharing combs, towels, clothing, and sports equipment can transmit the fungus that causes ringworm.
• Warm and humid climate: Ringworm thrives in warm and humid environments, so people living in such areas are more likely to get the infection.
• Sweating excessively: Excessive sweating can create a warm and moist environment on the skin, which can increase the risk of developing ringworm.
• Certain professions: People with certain jobs, such as athletes, farmers, and animal handlers, are more likely to get ringworm due to their increased exposure to the fungus.

Ringworm treatments

Treatment for ringworm usually includes:

• Topical antifungal creams or ointments: These are applied directly to the affected area and may need to be used for several weeks to clear up the infection. Some examples include clotrimazole (Lotrimin AF) and miconazole (Micatin).
• Oral antifungal medication: A healthcare professional may prescribe oral antifungal medication tablets if the infection is severe or widespread. Some examples include fluconazole (Diflucan) and griseofulvin (Grifulvin V).
• Antifungal shampoo: If ringworm affects the scalp, a professional may recommend an antifungal shampoo. These shampoos usually contain ketoconazole (Extina) or selenium sulfide.

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Key differences between eczema and ringworm

While eczema and ringworm can look similar in appearance, there are notable differences between the two conditions.

• Cause: Eczema is a chronic inflammatory condition that is often genetic and triggered by environmental factors such as allergens or irritants. Ringworm, on the other hand, is a fungal infection caused by a specific type of fungi called dermatophytes.
• Appearance: Eczema often appears as dry, itchy patches on the skin, while ringworm usually presents as circular or ring-shaped rashes with raised edges and clear centers. The rash may be scaly or have small blisters.
• Location: Eczema can occur on any part of the body but is most common on the hands, arms, and legs. Ringworm is more likely to occur in areas of the body that are warm and moist, such as the groin, feet, and scalp.
• Transmissibility: Eczema does not transmit from one person to another, whereas ringworm is highly transmissible and can pass on from one person to another by direct contact with the skin of individuals having the infection or objects they might have been in contact with.
• Treatment: Moisturizers, topical steroids, and other anti-inflammatory medications can help treat eczema. Antifungal medications such as creams, powders, or oral medications are helpful in the treatment of ringworm infections.

Summary 

Ringworm and eczema are two distinct skin conditions that can present with similar symptoms, making it difficult to distinguish between them. 

Ringworm is a highly transmissible fungal infection and can pass from one person to another if people come in contact with individuals or animals having the infection. It usually appears as a circular rash with raised edges and a clear center. 

On the other hand, eczema is a chronic skin condition resulting from an overactive immune response that leads to inflammation and skin irritation. It often causes itchy and scaly patches on the skin. 

Both ringworm and eczema require different treatment approaches. You may consider talking with a dermatologist or other healthcare professional to receive an accurate diagnosis and an appropriate treatment plan.

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