Ringworm, Facial (Tinea Faciale):
Information for adults

Tinea infections are commonly called ringworm because some infections form a ring-like pattern on affected areas of the body. Facial ringworm (tinea faciale), also known as tinea faciei or ringworm of the face, is a common, non-cancerous (benign) fungal infection of the surface (superficial) skin of the face. Facial ringworm may be passed to humans by direct contact with infected people, infected animals, contaminated objects (such as towels) or the soil.

In children and most women, facial ringworm can appear on any part of the face. In all men and in women who have dark, course hair on their face, it is known as beard ringworm (tinea barbae) when the infection occurs on the bearded part of the face.