Will tinea capitis be contagious if someone touches it?

Written by Huang Ling Juan
Dermatology
Updated on February 09, 2025
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If someone with tinea capitis briefly makes contact, it generally isn't contagious. If the skin is washed promptly with soapy water after contact, it will not lead to infection. It is important to maintain cleanliness, wash hands frequently, and wash hands thoroughly to minimize the risk of infection.

Tinea capitis is a contagious skin disease caused by a superficial fungal infection of the scalp. Hats, pillows, and combs used by individuals with tinea capitis can have many fungi attached to them, and using these combs or wearing hats, using the pillows can easily lead to fungal infections.

If tinea capitis occurs, it is important to use antifungal medications promptly for treatment. Under a doctor's guidance, using ketoconazole topical shampoo can be effective, and in severe cases, it may be necessary to combine this with oral antifungal medications for treatment.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
33sec home-news-image

What does tinea capitis look like?

Tinea capitis is a fungal infection of the scalp or hair follicles caused by dermatophytes. There are several types of tinea capitis. If it is white piedra, it appears as scattered, spot-like scaly patches; if it presents as kerion, significant inflammation will occur with many small pustules forming on the scalp; if it is yellow piedra, scalp scales will appear. Regardless of the type of tinea capitis, it is crucial to treat it promptly to prevent spreading.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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There are four types of tinea capitis.

Tinea capitis, this disease is classified into several types, mainly four: First, yellow tinea, also known as convex sores. Second, white tinea, which often spreads among schools and urban daycares, primarily through infection by rusty spore fungi. Third, black dot tinea, which is less common than white and yellow tinea. Fourth, pustular tinea, where patients often experience swollen lymph nodes and general symptoms.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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Is tinea capitis contagious?

Tinea capitis is contagious and has a relatively strong infectivity. It is especially prone to infect infants, children, and people with compromised immune functions due to underlying diseases. It can be spread through contact, including both direct and indirect contacts. For instance, sharing towels or other personal hygiene items can lead to infection, and contact with animals such as cats or dogs that have dermatophytosis can also transmit the disease.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
38sec home-news-image

Is tinea capitis a skin disease?

Tinea capitis, a type of skin disease, is a superficial fungal infection treated in the dermatology department and is commonly seen in children. There are four types of tinea capitis: yellow tinea, white tinea, black tinea, and pus tinea. It spreads through contact, including both indirect and direct contact, and is highly contagious. For those diagnosed with tinea capitis, treatments such as hair plucking and antifungal medications are recommended (medication should be used under the guidance of a physician).

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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What foods should not be eaten with tinea capitis?

Tinea capitis is a skin disease caused by fungal infection of the scalp skin or hair follicles. After contracting tinea capitis, it is necessary to follow a restricted diet. Firstly, avoid spicy and irritating foods, such as onions, ginger, and garlic, and refrain from smoking and drinking alcohol. Secondly, it is best to avoid foods that may exacerbate the condition, such as seafood, sea fish, shrimp, etc. Finally, it is recommended to adopt a light diet, consuming foods rich in vitamins and proteins, such as carrots, apples, pears, grapes, and green vegetables.