Skin conditions: ringworm & athlete's foot
Despite the name, ringworm involves no worm at all — it is a fungal skin infection that forms a circular, scaly, often itchy patch. Athlete's foot is caused by the same family of fungi, producing itching, burning, and peeling skin, usually between the toes. Both thrive in warm, humid environments, which makes them especially common in Florida, and both spread easily through skin contact and shared surfaces.
How they are treated
Most cases respond well to topical antifungal treatments applied consistently for the full recommended duration — typically two to four weeks. The most common mistake is stopping when symptoms disappear: the fungus is often still present, and incomplete treatment is the main reason infections return. Cases that are widespread, keep recurring, or involve the scalp or nails usually require oral prescription treatment and medical evaluation.
Stopping the spread
Fungi spread through direct skin contact, contaminated towels and clothing, and damp shared floors — gym showers, pool decks, locker rooms. Ringworm can also be passed between people and pets, so a pet with patchy hair loss may be part of the picture and worth a veterinary check.
Prevention
Keep skin dry — especially between the toes — wear breathable shoes and change socks daily, use sandals in shared showers and pool areas, and never share towels. Small habits prevent most reinfections.
Book a consultation
Have a rash, itching, or peeling skin that isn't improving? Book a consultation — the pharmacy team will help you identify the right antifungal treatment and how to use it, in English, Spanish, or Portuguese.
Frequently asked questions
No — the name refers to the ring-shaped rash, but the cause is a fungus. It is the same family of fungi behind athlete's foot and jock itch, just appearing on different parts of the body.
Through direct skin contact with an infected person or animal, or through contaminated surfaces — towels, clothing, gym mats, damp floors. Warm, humid conditions like Florida's make the fungi especially active.
Topical antifungals typically need two to four weeks of consistent daily use, and treatment should continue for the recommended time even after the rash clears. Stopping early is the most common reason the infection returns.
Yes — ringworm passes between pets and people. If someone in the household has ringworm and a pet has patches of hair loss or scaly skin, a veterinary check helps close the circle and prevent reinfection.
If the infection covers a large area, keeps coming back, involves the scalp or nails, or shows no improvement after a couple of weeks of proper treatment. Those cases usually need oral prescription medication rather than creams.
General frequently asked questions
Yes. Every prescription medication on this site requires a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare provider. Send us your prescription (e-Rx, fax, or a call to your prescriber), or transfer it from your current pharmacy.
Yes. Simply provide the name and phone number of your current pharmacy, and the transfer is handled for you — usually within 2 business days.
Prescriptions issued abroad cannot be dispensed directly. However, if you are already on treatment, a pharmacist can review your case and guide you through obtaining a valid U.S. prescription so your therapy continues without interruption.
No. Only your doctor or prescriber can change your treatment. Pharmacists are available to answer questions about your medication and coordinate with your prescriber when needed.
At either of our pharmacies — Boca Raton or Pompano Beach. You pay at the pharmacy when you pick up.
Yes. Chronic oral medications are eligible for a discounted 90-day supply, available on each product page.
This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your doctor or a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical condition or medication. Prescription medications are dispensed only with a valid prescription issued by a licensed healthcare provider.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Torre, PharmD, RPh — Pharmacist-in-Charge, Florida License PS40009