Table of Contents Show
Ringworm is a common condition that can be both uncomfortable and embarrassing. Despite its misleading name, is not caused by worms but rather by a fungal infection that affects the skin, hair, or nails. When faced with the itchiness, redness, and unsightly appearance of ringworm, people often seek various remedies to get rid of the infection quickly and effectively. The power of home remedies in treating ringworms is vast although there are other DIY remedies. One popular way to treat ringworm is to apply clear nail polish.
Nail polish generally used for enhancing the beauty of our nails, is now being explored as a potential solution to treat ringworm. Let’s move into the world of nail polish as a potential treatment for ringworm. So, How Long Does It Take Nail Polish To Kill Ringworm? You will have a comprehensive understanding of whether nail polish can truly help in the killing of ringworm and how long it might take to see noticeable improvements to the skin condition. This article will explore the science behind this approach, its period, procedure, and the necessary precautions as well.
The Science Behind Using Nail Polish on Ringworm
Ringworm, also known as tinea corporis, is a fungal infection of the skin that can cause circular or ring-shaped rashes. It is caused by various species of fungi and can affect different parts of the body, including the scalp, body, feet, etc.
There is confusion regarding the effectiveness of applying nail polish on ringworm. Nail polish is not an effective or recommended treatment for ringworm. Some people still assert this special type of treatment. The reason nail polish helps is that it suffocates the fungi that cause infections. The nail polish covering closes the skin pores on the affected area, making it difficult for the fungi to grow. As a result, the skin in that area dries up and the fungi disappear too. The skin on the afflicted area is shed by the body gradually, which also clears the infection. As a result, the skin becomes clear and healthy looking.
Killing Ringworm with Nail Polish: Time Needed and Procedure
How long nail polish takes to kill ringworm depends on the size and intensity of the concerned area. After the passing of 1 week, spots will start to fade away gradually. Nail polish generally takes 2 to 3 weeks to kill ringworm.
You will need clear nail polish, a clean applicator, delicate soap, a towel, and water to complete the whole process of killing ringworm. Let’s see the application procedure of clear nail polish to ringworm to kill them.
1. Select the Perfect Nail Polish
Go for a clear perfect nail polish with antifungal ingredients like tolnaftate or undecylenic acid. The ingredients would be very helpful for the skin as these would restrict the fungal growth in the skin. A nail polish that is of excellent quality and a reputed brand will get priority in the process.
2. Prepare the Affected Area
Before the application of nail polish, you must prepare the affected area properly. For that clean the area well using a delicate soap and water. Then pat dry with the help of a clean and dry towel. So, make sure that the affected area is completely dry before applying the nail polish.
3. Apply the Clear Nail Polish
With the help of a clean applicator, apply the clear nail polish in a thin coat over the ringworm wound. Try to cover the whole affected area which extends outside of the edges of the ringworm.
4. Let the Nail Polish Dry
Before you cover the area with clothing or use any other products, give the clear nail polish plenty of time to cure completely. This normally takes a few minutes, but depending on the brand of nail polish used, the time to dry may vary. During the drying period, you have to be patient and refrain from touching or scratching the treated area.
Step 5: Consider to Reapply If Necessary
Regarding how often to reapply nail polish, consider the directions written on the label. Generally, clear nail polish may require reapplication every 1-2 days or as instructed by your healthcare provider. Always remember to remove the previous coat of polish before adding a new one.
✨ You May like: How to Clean Magnetic Lashes?
4 Side Effects and 6 Precautions of Using Nail Polish to Kill Ringworm
Nail polish is primarily used for cosmetic purposes on fingernails or toenails and is not designed to treat fungal infections. For some people, using nail polish on ringworm lesions may even worsen the condition. To effectively treat ringworm, go for antifungal medications which can come in the form of topical creams, ointments, or oral medications, depending on the severity and location of the infection. You may also consult with a dermatologist for the most suitable treatment. Since nail polish is not a typical medical treatment that is effective for ringworm, there may have limitations and potential side effects associated with this method.
The side effects are explained:
- It can cause burns.
- Not all the ringworm will fade away.
- Areas around the joint are hard to treat properly.
- Using it on highly sensitive skin can damage the skin severely.
You should follow the following precautions:
- Use a Q-tip instead of a nail polish brush.
- Check out the ingredients of the nail polish.
- Do not apply clear nail polish in excessively thick layers as it is unnecessary.
- Avoid dipping the Q-tip two times as it will contaminate the fungus to the entire body or someone else as they come in contact with the nail polish.
- After having contact with the affected area, wash your hands before coming in contact with another area of your body.
- Do not share personal items like clothes, underwear, socks, towels, etc. with anyone.
FAQs
1. Does sunlight kill ringworm?
Yes. Ringworms can be killed by ultraviolet (UV) light. Even though ringworms cannot sustain in prolonged UV light exposure of which natural sunlight is a good source, you should still consult a doctor if you have ringworm.
2. Does soap kill ringworm?
Yes. Keep the skin as clean as you can to stop ringworm from contaminating other parts of the body. Rinse the infection once or twice a day with soap and warm water to achieve this. Dry the skin completely since fungus grows in damp places.
3. Does ringworm leave scars?
Sometimes the ringworm fungus penetrates deeper into your skin, making treatment even more difficult. Kerion is a painful irritation that can result from scalp ringworm. You can get crusty, pus-filled sores from kerion, which can be the reason for hair loss and scarring.
4. Does ringworm get bigger?
Yes. A ringworm infection typically results in an oval- or round-shaped rash with a raised border. It begins with a little size and gradually gets bigger. The center of the rash clears up as it spreads. The rash may itch and the skin may become flaky.
5. Can Dettol cure ringworm?
No. Dettol won’t help you to cure ringworm or fungal infections. Infection in the groin causes the symptom known as jock itch. Treatment is based on the severity of the condition. A thorough diagnosis calls for suitable treatment.
Final Thoughts
There are numerous treatment options available, a unique method that has recently gained attention is nail polish. A surprising connection exists between nail polish and this persistent skin condition. The answer to how long it takes for nail polish to effectively eliminate ringworm has been found. After 1 week passes, the spots will start to fade away gradually. While nail polish takes 2 to 3 weeks in general to kill ringworm. For facing the issue of covering a small area, you may go for nail polish. But if the affected area is very large, or includes a very sensitive part of the body, follow up with a dermatologist. If you decide to apply nail polish to ringworm to kill it, you need to be very careful while carrying out the procedure.
Key Points
- Although Nail polish is not an effective or recommended treatment for ringworm, some people still assert this.
- The reason nail polish helps is that it suffocates the fungi that cause infections. The nail polish covering closes the skin pores on the affected area, making it difficult for the fungi to grow.
- Depending on the size and intensity of the concerned area, nail polish generally takes 2 to 3 weeks to kill ringworm.
- Since nail polish is not a typical medical treatment for ringworm, there may have limitations and potential side effects associated with this method.
- Using nail polish on highly sensitive skin can damage the skin severely.
- Avoid dipping the Q-tip two times as it will contaminate the fungus to the entire body or someone else.
✨ Next Attraction: What Cologne Does Harry Styles Wear?
