How to Treat Fungal Infection in Scalp

How to Treat Fungal Infection in Scalp

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Wearing black may promote a slimmer appearance, but a black shirt over your shoulders is not going to be the best choice if you have dandruff. We don’t need to explain why that is, but we can say that seborrheic dermatitis is not a fungal infection, and it happens when hair oil blocks natural moisture from entering the skin. A fungal infection on the scalp is going to be a much more serious situation, and Head & Shoulders is not going to be able to do a darn thing about it. So, what we will overview here is how to treat fungal infection in scalp.  

All these infections start when fungi get into the hair follicles, something everyone has up there even if for some men there is no hair growing out of them anymore. But fungal scalp infections can cause hair loss, although only temporary if the right treatment is provided. And that is what we are looking at here. The most common culprit of all the fungi and the one that causes scalp fungus infections most often is candida. That is one you probably have heard of, and when it is referred to as a yeast infection. 

Another one is Malassezia fungus, and the pityriasis infection that can result from it may also have you asking how to treat fungal infection in scalp. Symptoms that you may see with either of these infections include: 

  • Itchy, red skin patches that may still be visible through hair 

  • Purple or red patches of skin  

  • White, flaky scales on the scalp  

  • Scalp crusting  

  • Pustules on the scalp that resemble pimples  

If any of these are observed you may need a scalp infection medication, and that is likely going to be the most integral part of your treatment so you can get rid of a fungal scalp infection.  

Wipe Them Out 

Clobetasol is a powerhouse medication to knock out fungal infections and do it so effectively that there’s truly little chance the colony has any chance of re-establishing itself. It is an Rx drug, and so you will need a prescription to buy Clobex shampoo for a scalp infection. But it will be wort the visit to the doctor because this is your best approach for how to treat fungal infection in scalp. You may also be able to use OTC scalp infection shampoos, and if you are going to go that route look for ones that contain selenium sulfide, zinc pyrithione, and coal tar. 

One of the worst types of infections you can have on your scalp is a ringworm infection. Fortunately, they are not something that happens to people often, but they can be especially nasty when they do. In the event you do get one you will need to come at how to treat fungal infection in scalp from a different angle. Medication is going to be necessary with this type of treatment, and your doctor will certainly be prescribing Terbinafine (Lamisil), Itraconazole, Posaconazole (Noxafil), or Griseofulvin medications.  

You don’t want to delay treatment with a ringworm infection, as they are highly contagious and can be spread easily through skin-to-skin contact. See a doctor right away.  


IMPORTANT NOTE: The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for your pet. See your veterinarian for medical advice and treatment for your pet if you have any concerns.


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