What Does Ringworm Look Like vs Eczema?
Medically reviewed by Lauren Okafor | MD, The Frank H Netter MD School of Medicine, Loyola University Medical Center on August 22nd, 2026.
Ringworm appears as circular, red patches with raised, scaly borders and clearer centers, resembling a ring. Eczema typically shows up as inflamed, itchy patches that are red, dry, and scaly without the distinctive circular pattern. Ringworm lesions have well-defined edges and often expand outward, while eczema patches tend to be more irregular and can appear anywhere on the body. Ringworm is caused by a fungal infection and is contagious, whereas eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that's not contagious. About 10-20% of people develop eczema during their lifetime, while ringworm affects approximately 25% of the population at some point.
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