Ringworm is a common skin problem. Many people notice that it shows up more often in summer. If you are one of those people who asks, “Why do I get ringworm every summer?”, this article will help you understand the reasons. We will look at what causes ringworm, why it appears more in summer, and how you can prevent it.
What is ringworm?
Ringworm is not caused by a worm. It is a skin infection caused by a fungus. The medical name for ringworm is tinea. The name changes based on where it appears on the body. For example:
- Tinea corporis affects the body.
- Tinea pedis (also called athlete’s foot) affects the feet.
- Tinea cruris (also called jock itch) affects the groin.
- Tinea capitis affects the scalp.
Ringworm looks like a red, circular rash. The outer part of the circle may be raised and scaly, while the middle can look clear. It can be itchy and uncomfortable. Sometimes it spreads to other parts of the body.
Why does ringworm happen more in summer?
There are many reasons why ringworm becomes more common during the summer. Let’s look at each one in detail.
Hot and humid weather
Fungi love warm and moist environments. In the summer, the temperature rises. You also sweat more. This creates the perfect condition for fungi to grow. When sweat stays on the skin, it keeps the skin moist. This increases the chance of getting a fungal infection like ringworm.
More outdoor activity
Summer is the season of outdoor fun. You might go swimming, hiking, or playing sports. These activities increase sweating and skin contact with other people, surfaces, or shared equipment. All of these can spread the fungus that causes ringworm.
Wearing tight or non-breathable clothing
Many people wear tight clothing or synthetic fabrics in summer. These materials do not allow the skin to breathe. When sweat gets trapped under the clothing, it keeps the skin wet. This creates a breeding ground for fungi.
Close contact in gyms, locker rooms, or pools
Public places like gyms, pools, and locker rooms are often crowded in summer. These places are often warm and humid. They are also shared spaces where people walk barefoot or use shared towels or equipment. If someone has ringworm and uses the same area, it’s easy to pick up the fungus from surfaces.
More contact with animals
Ringworm is a zoonotic infection. This means it can be passed from animals to humans. In the summer, people spend more time outside or visit farms, petting zoos, or camps. If an animal has ringworm and you touch it, you can get it too.
Weakened skin barrier
In summer, your skin may become more irritated due to sweating, shaving, insect bites, or sunburn. When your skin is damaged or inflamed, fungi can enter more easily. Even minor skin damage can allow ringworm to take hold.
Common risk factors for recurring ringworm
If you get ringworm every summer, you may be dealing with certain risk factors that increase your chances of getting infected.
Excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis)
Some people sweat more than others. This condition is called hyperhidrosis. If you sweat a lot, especially in the groin, armpits, or feet, you are at higher risk of ringworm.
Weakened immune system
If your immune system is not strong, your body cannot fight off infections well. This makes it easier for fungi to grow on your skin. People with diabetes, cancer, HIV, or those taking steroids may have a weaker immune system.
Having a history of fungal infections
If you had ringworm in the past, you are more likely to get it again. The fungi may stay on your clothes, towels, or bedding and come back when conditions are right.
Living in warm, humid places
If you live in a place that is hot and humid most of the year, your risk is naturally higher. People in tropical or subtropical climates have more cases of ringworm.
Poor hygiene
Not showering after sweating, not drying off properly, or wearing the same sweaty clothes can increase the risk. Fungi love unclean environments.
Signs and symptoms of ringworm
You may notice the following signs:
- A red, circular rash with raised edges
- Itching, stinging, or burning
- Cracked or peeling skin
- Hair loss in the affected area (if on scalp or beard)
- Discoloration or scaling of the skin
In athlete’s foot, you may see peeling between the toes. In jock itch, you may see redness in the groin or inner thighs. The signs can vary, but the circular shape is a strong clue.
How does ringworm spread?
Ringworm spreads in many ways:
- Skin-to-skin contact with an infected person
- Touching contaminated surfaces such as gym mats, floors, towels, or bedding
- Sharing personal items like combs, clothes, or shoes
- Contact with infected animals like cats, dogs, or farm animals
- Touching soil that contains the fungus
Because it is so easy to spread, it is important to treat it quickly and practice good hygiene.
How to prevent ringworm in summer
Prevention is the key to breaking the cycle. Here are practical ways to stop ringworm from coming back every summer.
Keep your skin clean and dry
Always shower after exercising or sweating. Use a clean towel and dry off completely, especially between toes, groin, and armpits.
Wear loose, breathable clothing
Cotton clothes are better than synthetic fabrics. Loose-fitting clothes help keep the skin cool and dry.
Change clothes often
Do not wear sweaty clothes for long periods. Change clothes and underwear daily, or more often if you sweat a lot.
Avoid sharing personal items
Do not share towels, razors, clothes, combs, or shoes. These items can carry the fungus.
Use antifungal powder or spray
If you are prone to ringworm, use antifungal powder or spray in areas that sweat a lot. This helps prevent fungal growth.
Keep your home and gear clean
Wash your bedding, clothes, and towels regularly. If you use gym equipment, wipe it down before and after use.
Protect your feet in public areas
Wear flip-flops or sandals in locker rooms, showers, and around pools. Do not walk barefoot in these areas.
Watch out for infected animals
If you work with animals or visit petting zoos, wash your hands after touching them. Look for signs of ringworm in pets, such as bald patches or red skin. Take them to a vet if needed.
Treat infections early
If you notice a rash, treat it right away. Over-the-counter antifungal creams work well in the early stages. Waiting too long can let it spread.
How is ringworm treated?
Treatment depends on how bad the infection is and where it appears.
Over-the-counter antifungal creams
Mild cases of ringworm can be treated with creams like:
- Clotrimazole
- Miconazole
- Terbinafine
Apply the cream to the area twice a day for at least 2 weeks. You should also keep treating for a few days after the rash disappears to make sure it is gone.
Prescription treatments
If the ringworm is severe or does not go away with creams, a doctor may prescribe:
- Stronger antifungal creams
- Oral antifungal pills like terbinafine or griseofulvin
These treatments are usually needed for infections on the scalp or nails, or if the infection is widespread.
Home remedies (with caution)
Some people use natural remedies like tea tree oil or apple cider vinegar. These may help mild cases, but they are not as reliable as antifungal medicines. Always talk to a doctor before using them, especially if your skin is sensitive.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if:
- The rash is spreading or getting worse
- You have ringworm on your scalp or nails
- The infection does not go away after using creams for 2-4 weeks
- You have a weak immune system or other health conditions
A doctor can do a skin test and give the right treatment.
How to stop ringworm from coming back every summer
If you keep getting ringworm every year, try to make a plan:
- Start using antifungal powder in late spring before the heat starts
- Be extra careful in hot and humid months
- Keep a separate set of summer clothes and wash them regularly
- Disinfect surfaces like yoga mats, shoes, or gear often
- Consider trimming body hair to reduce sweat buildup
- Keep pets healthy and clean
Final thoughts
Getting ringworm every summer can be annoying and uncomfortable. But you can prevent it by staying clean and dry, wearing the right clothes, and treating infections early. Summer brings warmth, sweat, and fun — but it also creates the perfect home for fungi. If you are careful and take simple steps, you can break the cycle and enjoy the season without ringworm.
If you live in a warm place, work outdoors, or sweat a lot, you are at higher risk. But by knowing the cause and acting early, you can stay ahead of this itchy skin infection.
Take care of your skin, especially in summer. Good hygiene and early treatment are your best defenses.
Ringworm may be common in hot weather, but it doesn’t have to be a part of your summer every year.
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