What is skin fungus?
A fungus is a tiny organism, such as mold or mildew. Fungi are everywhere — in the air and water and on the human body. About half of fungi are harmful. If one of the harmful fungi lands on your skin, it can cause a fungal infection. You may develop a rash or feel itchy.
Who is at risk for developing a fungal rash?
Anyone can develop a fungal rash. Superficial infections of the skin and nails are cited as the most common form of infection, affecting up to 20-25% of the world’s population at any given time. For example, athlete’s foot often affects otherwise healthy people. You may have a higher risk for developing a skin rash if you:
- Have a weakened immune system (for example, if you take immunosuppressant medications, have a disease that weakens the immune system or are undergoing chemotherapy).
- Take long-term or high-dose antibiotics.
- Have excess weight.
- Have diabetes.
- Try a new skin care product.
- Experience incontinence (for example, babies getting diaper rashes).
- Sweat heavily.
- Are pregnant.
What does a fungal rash look like?
A fungal skin infection often looks bright red and can spread across a large area. A fungal skin rash may also have characteristics including:
- Color more intense at the border.
- Scale more intense at the border
- Smaller, more defined lesions (pustules) at the edges of the rash area.
