Is tinea capitis contagious?

Written by Zhu Zhu

Dermatology

Updated on April 20, 2025

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Tinea capitis is contagious and highly infectious. It commonly occurs in children and is related to poor hygiene, inadequate cleaning of the scalp, and contact with other individuals or animals infected with tinea capitis. Once tinea capitis appears, it should be taken seriously and treated promptly. If left untreated, it could lead to severe consequences, such as permanent hair loss. Tinea capitis should be addressed by a dermatologist, and it is advised to seek medical attention promptly.

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Written by Zhu Zhu

Dermatology

57sec

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How to remove tinea capitis

Tinea capitis is a common skin disease, often caused by a fungal infection of the scalp. To remove tinea capitis, it is suggested to pay attention to the following points: First, wash your hair frequently. You can use topical potassium permanganate solutions for scalp cleansing, removing necrotic tissue, fungi, and some crusts. Second, it is advised to pay attention to personal hygiene and avoid eating spicy foods. Furthermore, for mild cases of tinea capitis, it is advisable to use selenium sulfide cleansers for washing. Lastly, for more severe tinea capitis, it is necessary to use topical antifungal medications such as ketoconazole ointment, along with oral antifungal medications for treatment (the use of medications should be under the guidance of a doctor).

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Written by Zhu Zhu

Dermatology

35sec

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How to treat tinea capitis?

Tinea capitis, this disease can cause symptoms such as itching, scaling, crusting, and even thick discharge and erosion on the scalp. To treat tinea capitis, it is crucial to maintain cleanliness of the head, and to disinfect daily-used personal items. Furthermore, it is necessary to use topical antifungal medications. For severe cases of tinea capitis, oral medications like ketoconazole or clotrimazole may be required (use of medications should be under the guidance of a doctor).

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Written by Zhu Zhu

Dermatology

42sec

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What foods should not be eaten with tinea capitis?

Tinea capitis is a skin disease caused by fungal infection of the scalp skin or hair follicles. After contracting tinea capitis, it is necessary to follow a restricted diet. Firstly, avoid spicy and irritating foods, such as onions, ginger, and garlic, and refrain from smoking and drinking alcohol. Secondly, it is best to avoid foods that may exacerbate the condition, such as seafood, sea fish, shrimp, etc. Finally, it is recommended to adopt a light diet, consuming foods rich in vitamins and proteins, such as carrots, apples, pears, grapes, and green vegetables.

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Written by Zhu Zhu

Dermatology

36sec

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Can tinea capitis be transmitted through hands?

Tinea capitis, the disease in question, is transmissible through hands. It is a superficial fungal infection primarily affecting the scalp and hair, mainly caused by pathogens such as Microsporum ferrugineum and Trichophyton schoenleinii. Transmission can occur through contact with objects like hats, pillowcases, and towels that have been used by others. Additionally, if one has tinea manuum (fungal infection of the hand), it can also lead to the spread of tinea capitis.

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Written by Zhu Zhu

Dermatology

32sec

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What should I do if my scalp ringworm clears up but then comes back?

Tinea capitis keeps recurring because it is difficult to cure and tends to relapse. To prevent this condition from occurring again, the following suggestions are offered. First, items that are in close contact such as contaminated clothing, hats, pillows, and bedding should be disinfected by boiling or sun exposure. Additionally, areas affected by fungal infections should be disinfected and sterilized. Lastly, patients with tinea capitis should receive antifungal treatment.