Several steps can be taken to prevent ringworm. People should avoid close contact with people or animals known to be infected with ringworm. Checking pets for areas of hair loss can help spot a fungal infection in an animal. Pets with signs of ringworm should be brought to a veterinarian.

Other tips for preventing ringworm include:

• Keep skin clean and dry. Hands and feet should be washed with soap and dried thoroughly after bathing, especially between the fingers and toes.
  
  
• Wear clean socks and underwear every day. Change socks at least once a day. People who sweat a lot are encouraged to change their socks more frequently.
  
  
• Alternate shoes daily to let them air out. Shoes should also be taken off sporadically throughout the day, especially after exercise.
  
  
• Wear comfortable clothes and shoes. Shoes that are well ventilated (e.g., open-toe shoes) and shoes made of natural material, such as leather, are preferable to those that are lined with plastic. Shoes should also provide good support and have a wide toe area. Loose-fitting clothing is preferred over tight clothes.
  
  
• Avoid rough, textured clothing that may chafe the skin.
  
  
• Use separate nail clippers on infected toes or fingernails to prevent the spread of infection.
  
  
• Do not use other people’s personal items, including:
  
  
• Clothes
• Towels
• Sports equipment
• Toiletries
  
  
• Only use facilities that are cleaned and disinfected daily, including:
  
  
• Locker room
• Gymnasium
• Public swimming pool
  
  
• Avoid walking barefoot in public places (e.g., public shower, public pool). Instead, wear flip-flops or sandals.
  
  
• Maintain a healthy weight. Being overweight can lead to skin folds that provide a moist and warm environment ideal for fungi growth.
  
  
• Use topical antifungal powders as needed.
  
  
• Treat illnesses promptly.