Scalp ringworm (tinea capitis)

What it is

Tinea capitis is a fungal infection of the scalp and hair. It causes scaly or flaky patches, broken hairs that look like black dots, hair loss and sometimes a painful swollen patch (kerion).

How it works

Tinea capitis is a fungal infection of the hair shafts and scalp. The fungus lives inside or around the hair, which is why creams alone cannot reach it.

Why it matters on darker skin

It is especially common in children of African descent and spreads through shared combs, clippers, caps and close contact. It is often mistaken for dandruff.

Causes and triggers

Spreads through shared combs, clippers, hats, pillows and close contact at school; some types come from animals.

What helps — and why it works

It needs prescription antifungal tablets from a doctor; creams alone do not reach the hair root. Antifungal shampoo for the child and household helps reduce spread. Disinfect combs, brushes and clippers and avoid sharing them. Antifungal tablets prescribed by a doctor: they reach the fungus inside the hair. Expected timeline: 6–8 weeks of treatment. Antifungal shampoo for the child and family: reduces spread. Expected timeline: 2–4 weeks. Clean combs and clippers: removes fungal spores. Expected timeline: each use.

What to avoid and why

Avoid creams containing steroids, which worsen it, and do not shave or cut out patches at home.

Common mistakes

• Using creams only.
• Shaving the head as a cure.
• Sharing clippers at barbers.

Caring for children's skin

Children's skin is thinner, loses water faster and absorbs more of what is applied to it relative to body size, so simpler is safer. For most children a short lukewarm bath, a fragrance-free soap substitute and a plain emollient are all that is needed, plus shade, clothing and sunscreen from six months of age. Avoid adult products, essential oils, antiseptics in bath water, bleaching or 'toning' creams, and cosmetic treatments such as relaxers and gel nails. Medicines and medicated creams should be used only as a doctor, nurse or pharmacist advises, and in children Melanin & Me does not offer photo checks: a clinician should see the child. Trust your instincts as a parent: a child who is unusually sleepy, floppy, not feeding, breathing fast or has a rash that does not fade when pressed with a glass needs urgent care. Keep a simple record — photos and dates — of rashes that come and go, as this helps the doctor.

Products, medicines and when to worry

When choosing products for children, look for fragrance-free formulas with short ingredient lists, and avoid adult acne, anti-ageing or lightening products, essential oils and talc. Medicated creams — including steroid creams, antifungals and antibiotics — are safe and helpful when prescribed for the right condition and used for the right length of time, but mixed creams sold over the counter can contain strong steroids that are unsafe for children. Sunscreen is suitable from six months of age; younger babies should be kept in the shade and covered. Do not give medicines intended for adults, and ask a pharmacist about the right medicine for a child's age and weight. Seek urgent care for any rash with fever and a very unwell child, a rash that does not fade under a glass, swelling of the face or lips, or blistering of the mouth or eyes.

Questions to ask your doctor or pharmacist

Useful questions include: What do you think is causing this? Is it likely to come back, and how can I prevent it? Which products should I stop? How long before I should expect improvement, and when should I come back if it isn't better? Are there side effects to watch for? Is this treatment safe if I am pregnant, breastfeeding or for my child? Writing your questions down, bringing your products (or photos of their labels) and taking dated photos of the problem make an appointment much more useful.