Among the millions of species of fungi, only a few hundred of them can actually cause infections in humans. 

While mild fungal skin infections like ringworm are relatively widespread, a fungal infection in the lungs is more severe and often generates symptoms similar to tuberculosis or bacterial pneumonia. 

Other fungal infections like meningitis and bloodstream infections are less common than skin and lung infections, but they can be potentially life-threatening unless treated immediately.

There are numerous types of fungal infections that can affect your skin. Below, we'll learn more about the types, symptoms, and treatments of fungal skin infections while also discussing how to prevent them.

Table of Contents:

• The Most Common Fungal Skin Infections
• How to Cure Fungal Infections on Skin Naturally
• Which products can I use to cure a fungal infection?

The Most Common Fungal Skin Infections

Ringworm (tinea corporis)

An extremely contagious infection, ringworm is caused by a fungus that lives on dead tissues of the skin, nails, and hair. 

It is characterized by raised, circular rashes on the body, scalp, feet, or groin and is often accompanied by scaly skin. 

The condition causes a lot of itching, but the rings tend to clear up quickly if you follow a thorough antifungal treatment.

Athlete's Foot (tinea pedis)

Athlete's Foot occurs when your feet are encased in tight shoes and socks all day without getting a chance to breathe. 

This fungus thrives in warm, humid environments and can lead to redness, blisters, and peeling skin around your feet. 

Jock Itch (tinea cruris)

Jock Itch is another skin fungus that infects the thighs and groin, commonly occurring among adolescent boys and men. 

The main signs are scaly, cracked skin accompanied by an itchy, red rash that generally starts in the upper inner thighs or around the groin area. 

The rash can worsen after physical activity or exercise and may spread to the abdomen and buttocks in severe cases.

How to Cure Fungal Infections on Skin Naturally

Most fungal skin infections can be prevented by following a few simple steps every day and adding certain foods to your lifestyle. 

Things like practicing good hygiene, not sharing clothing and personal items, wearing clean clothes every day, and staying away from animals that show symptoms of fungal infection, such as frequent scratching or missing fur, are healthy practices that everyone should adopt. 

In case an infection happens, you can try out some of these natural remedies.

Yogurt and Probiotics

Yogurt, fermented foods, and other probiotics have an abundance of good bacteria that can help build immunity and keep several fungal infections at bay. 

Soap and Water

Always remember to clean the affected area with soap and water twice a day before applying any medication or other home remedies. 

While soap and water may not be able to eliminate the infection entirely, they will help you reduce its spread and intensity.

Turmeric

Turmeric is a highly potent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory spice with endless benefits. 

In the event of a fungal infection, it can be used externally as a paste or consumed by mixing with warm water or tea.

Aloe Vera

As one of the gentlest and most time-tested natural remedies to cure any skin infection, aloe vera doesn't just treat the infection but also repairs and soothes skin damage.

Garlic

Garlic is known for being antifungal and antimicrobial. Crush a couple of garlic pieces with some olive oil and make a paste. Apply it to the infected area for about thirty minutes for the best results. 

Neem Leaves

Neem leaves are full of antifungal properties and are extremely useful for the skin. Washing the infected area with boiled neem water is very effective in treating fungal infections.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C boosts our immune system, which protects our body from various infections. The most high-grade food sources of vitamin C are uncooked fruits and vegetables like kiwis, strawberries, tomatoes, and guavas. 

Baking Soda

Baking soda is exceptionally good at treating fungal infections like Athlete's Foot. Applying baking soda powder on your feet and the inside of your shoes will help absorb moisture and sweat, preventing the infection from spreading.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is yet another miracle concoction with heaps of benefits. It is known for being highly effective against fungal infections. You can pour about a cup of ACV into a bathtub filled with warm water and soak in it for 30 minutes.

Hydrogen Peroxide

Immersing your feet in a solution made using equal parts hydrogen peroxide, and water efficiently kills the fungus that causes Athlete's Foot.

Ginger

Everyone's favorite resident spice boasts remarkable antifungal properties. Including ginger in your diet can help prevent and treat fungal infections like Candida.

Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is a natural source of antibacterial and antifungal properties. Applying it over the infected area about three to four times a day can be a super-effective home remedy for fungal infections.

Which products can I use to cure a fungal infection?

The WOW Skin Science Tea Tree Essential Oil has an earthy, herbaceous, and medicinal aroma and is a must-have in your self-care kit. It provides a host of benefits that range from fighting dandruff and acne to colds and infections.

Argan oil is well-known for carrying antibacterial and antifungal properties. WOW's premium, cold-pressed Moroccan Argan Hair Oil is a great option to tackle irritated skin. You just need to start applying it topically twice a day to start seeing effects.

Fungal infections can be uncomfortable and painful. However, there's no need to fret much because you can cure them with proper care and treatment. 

Self-examination goes a long way in identifying fungal infections as soon as they occur, especially if there are no other symptoms like irritation or itchiness. 

If you see no improvement with the above-mentioned home remedies or your infection worsens, it is advisable to seek medical attention immediately. 

The doctor will prescribe an antifungal medication and, in some cases, recommend changes to your diet or other daily habits to treat or prevent future infections.