Fungal Skin Infection Treatment in Washington, DC

What Is a Fungal Skin Infection?

A fungal skin infection occurs when certain types of fungi grow on or within the skin, nails, scalp, or other areas of the body.

Fungal infections can affect people of all ages and may appear in different forms depending on the type of fungus and the area involved.

Common symptoms may include itching, scaling, discoloration, cracking, or changes in the skin or nails.

Because fungal infections can sometimes resemble other skin conditions, a dermatologic evaluation can help determine the cause of your symptoms.

Common Types of Fungal Skin Infections

Common fungal infections that may affect the skin include:

• Ringworm (Tinea): A fungal infection that can affect the skin and may cause scaly or itchy patches.
• Athlete's Foot (Tinea Pedis): A fungal infection affecting the feet, particularly between the toes or on the soles.
• Jock Itch (Tinea Cruris): A fungal infection affecting the groin and surrounding skin.
• Yeast Infections of the Skin: Fungal infections caused by yeast that may affect warm, moist areas of the body.
• Scalp Ringworm (Tinea Capitis): A fungal infection affecting the scalp and hair.
• Nail Fungus (Onychomycosis): A fungal infection that can cause changes in the color, thickness, or appearance of the nails.

Different fungal infections can require different treatment approaches.

What Does a Fungal Skin Infection Look Like?

Fungal infections can vary considerably in appearance.

Depending on the type and location, symptoms may include:

• Itchy or irritated skin
• Scaly or flaky patches
• Circular or ring-shaped areas
• Discoloration
• Cracking or peeling
• Redness or inflammation
• Thickened or discolored nails
• Changes in the scalp or hair
• Areas of skin that become darker or lighter after inflammation

The appearance of a fungal infection can sometimes overlap with eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis, or other skin conditions.

Where Can Fungal Infections Develop?

Fungal infections can affect many areas of the body, including:

• Feet
• Groin
• Trunk
• Arms and legs
• Scalp
• Nails
• Skin folds
• Other areas of the skin

The location of the infection can provide important information when determining the likely cause.

How Do Fungal Skin Infections Spread?

Some fungal infections can spread through contact with an infected person, animal, contaminated surfaces, or shared personal items.

Warm, moist environments may also encourage fungal growth.

Depending on the type of infection, exposure may occur through:

• Direct skin-to-skin contact
• Shared towels or clothing
• Shared footwear
• Locker rooms or communal surfaces
• Contact with infected animals
• Other sources of exposure

Not every rash or skin change is caused by a fungus, so proper evaluation is important before treatment.

Fungal Skin Infections and Skin of Color

Fungal infections can affect people of all skin tones, but their appearance may differ depending on the patient's pigmentation.

Inflammation may be less visibly red on darker skin, while changes in skin color, scaling, or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation may be more noticeable.

Dr. Holmes considers skin tone and individual skin characteristics when evaluating fungal infections and other skin conditions.

Learn more about Dermatology for Skin of Color in Washington, DC →

When Should You See a Dermatologist for a Fungal Infection?

Consider scheduling a dermatology evaluation if you experience:

• A persistent itchy or scaly rash
• A rash that continues to spread
• Recurrent fungal infections
• Skin changes that do not improve with over-the-counter treatment
• Persistent discoloration or scaling
• Cracked or irritated skin
• Changes in the nails
• Scalp scaling or hair changes
• Uncertainty about whether a rash is fungal

A dermatologist can help determine whether a fungal infection is responsible for your symptoms and recommend an appropriate treatment approach.

How Are Fungal Skin Infections Diagnosed?

Diagnosis begins with a dermatologic examination and discussion of your symptoms and medical history.

Dr. Holmes may consider:

• The appearance of the affected skin
• Location and distribution
• Duration of symptoms
• Possible sources of exposure
• Previous treatments
• Whether symptoms have improved or worsened
• Your personal and skin history

In some situations, additional testing may be recommended to help determine whether a fungus is present.

Because fungal infections can resemble eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis, and other skin conditions, an accurate diagnosis can help guide treatment.

Fungal Skin Infection Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the type of fungal infection, the area affected, the severity of the infection, and your individual needs.

Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may include:

• Topical antifungal medications
• Oral antifungal medications when appropriate
• Skin-care recommendations
• Measures to reduce moisture and irritation
• Other treatment approaches based on the affected area and type of infection

Dr. Holmes will evaluate your condition and recommend an individualized treatment plan based on the specific infection and your symptoms.

Can a Fungal Infection Come Back?

Some fungal infections can recur, particularly when the underlying source of exposure or contributing factors remain present.

Following the recommended treatment plan and maintaining appropriate skin hygiene may help reduce the likelihood of recurrence.

If an infection repeatedly returns or does not respond to treatment, a dermatologic evaluation can help determine whether the diagnosis or treatment approach needs to be reassessed.

Fungal Infection vs. Other Skin Conditions

Fungal infections can sometimes resemble other dermatologic conditions.

For example, a scaly or itchy rash may be caused by:

• A fungal infection
• Eczema or dermatitis
• Psoriasis
• An allergic or irritant reaction
• Another inflammatory skin condition

Because these conditions can require different treatments, it is important to determine the likely cause before assuming a rash is fungal.

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How Can Fungal Skin Infections Be Prevented?

Depending on the type of fungal infection, general measures that may help reduce exposure or recurrence include:

• Keeping affected areas clean and dry
• Changing damp clothing promptly
• Avoiding sharing towels, clothing, or footwear
• Wearing appropriate footwear in communal areas
• Following treatment instructions carefully
• Addressing recurrent or persistent infections with a dermatologist

Prevention recommendations may vary depending on the type and location of the infection.

Frequently Asked Questions About Fungal Skin Infections

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Why Choose Dr. Holmes for Fungal Skin Infection Treatment

Meet Dr. Yolanda C. Holmes

Dr. Yolanda C. Holmes is a board-certified dermatologist with more than 34 years of experience serving patients in Washington, DC.

She provides individualized evaluation and treatment for fungal skin infections and other dermatologic concerns. Dr. Holmes considers the appearance, location, symptoms, and individual characteristics of each patient's condition when developing a treatment plan.

With a focus on skin of color, Dr. Holmes considers how skin conditions may present differently across skin tones.

Learn more about Dr. Holmes →