at first ringworm of the scalp or beard may look like dandruff with flakes of dead skin on the hair or beard. there may be round or oval patches of baldness. the skin under the hair or beard may be itchy red and peeling. the infection can spread gradually and cover a large area. as fungi invade the hair the hair becomes infected brittle and breaks off near the root resulting in patches of baldness. if you treat ringworm early hair loss is usually temporary. the scalp or the skin under the beard may become very tender if swollen areas and bumps that look like blisters or nodules with pus (kerions) develop. skin blisters can become infected. ringworm of the scalp or beard can cause scarring and permanent hair loss. webmd medical reference from healthwise this information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information. © 1995-2011 healthwise incorporated. healthwise healthwise for every health decision and the healthwise logo are trademarks of healthwise incorporated.
what happens to someone when they get ringworm of the scalp or beard?