Though they both share the name ‘tinea,’ tinea versicolor and tinea corporis (ringworm) are not quite the same thing; however, both do refer to fungal infections that live in the hair follicles of the body. Somewhat confusingly, ‘tinea versicolor’ translates as ‘multicolored ringworm.’ While ringworm is a highly contagious fungal infection, tinea versicolor presents as a discoloration of the skin due to a naturally occurring fungus that lives in most people’s skin and hair follicles. Tinea versicolor is not contagious and cannot be transmitted from person to person.
Tinea versicolor is prevalent throughout the world but is most common in hot, humid climates. The fungus that lives naturally on the skin grows more prevalently in these conditions and can grow out of control. This growth can cause discoloration on the skin - red or pink, white, or brown - that can appear anywhere on the body. The patches of tinea versicolor may be dry, raised, itchy, or scaly. It might also change with the weather or the seasons.
Ringworm, on the other hand, is a very contagious fungal infection that spreads easily from person to person. Known as ‘ringworm’ because of its circular appearance, this form of tinea presents as a large, circular rash that can also be scaly, raised, or itchy but is usually contained in one patch. This form of tinea can be caught through contact with the ringworm or another person or animal, as well as from sharing unwashed bedding, clothing, towels, or combs with someone else who has the condition.
So, while sharing a similar name and certain properties, tinea versicolor and ringworm are quite different and require different preventative measures. While ringworm can be prevented by avoiding contact and sharing items with someone who has the condition, tinea versicolor can only be prevented by trying to keep the body cool and not sweaty.
Similarly, the treatment options differ. When treating tinea versicolor, it is important to target the fungal infection while also relieving itching and discomfort. Our Tinea Versicolor Treatment Kit offers a natural and effective homeopathic remedy to the discoloration caused by tinea, with Tinea Sulfur Soap to cleanse and disinfect the skin, while the antifungal properties of sulfur target the infection. The Tinea Topical Oil provides relief from itching and discomfort, while our Tinea Relief Lotion soothes and hydrates the skin, using tea tree, lavender, and jojoba oils to soothe, leaving your skin soft and your post-treatment complexion rejuvenated.
For ringworm, on the other hand, it is really important to target the infection while preventing its spread. Our Tinea products do just that, providing a topical solution that reaches the source of the fungal infection. This homeopathic solution is different from over-the-counter medicines; the natural ingredients allow it to absorb into the skin, while other solutions only sit on the skin’s surface, meaning they are less able to efficiently target and eradicate the root of the infection. Our treatment comprises all-natural ingredients that target the fungus while soothing irritation, promoting healing, and preventing the spread of the infection to others.
