Skin Infections · Apgujeong, Seoul
Fungal Skin Infection
Ringworm, athlete’s foot, jock itch and tinea versicolor diagnosed by microscopy and treated with the right antifungal.
Skin Infections · Apgujeong, Seoul
Fungal Skin Infection
Ringworm, athlete’s foot, jock itch and tinea versicolor diagnosed by microscopy and treated with the right antifungal.
Quick answer
Medical dermatology at Oaro Dermatology Clinic is led by board-certified dermatologists who diagnose first and treat second. Korean National Health Insurance may apply to covered conditions for insured residents. Meet our doctors or book a same-week appointment .
At a glance
| Procedure time | Consultation and microscopy 15–25 minutes |
|---|---|
| Anaesthesia | Not applicable |
| Downtime | None |
| Sessions | Topical therapy 2–6 weeks; oral therapy as prescribed; review at 4 weeks |
| Results last | Infection usually clears; re-infection is possible without prevention |
| Performed by | Board-certified dermatologist |
Overview
What is a fungal skin infection?
Fungal skin infections, or tinea, are among the most common reasons people see a dermatologist. Dermatophyte fungi feed on keratin in the outer skin, hair and nails, causing ringworm on the body (tinea corporis), athlete's foot (tinea pedis), jock itch (tinea cruris) and scalp ringworm (tinea capitis). A yeast called Malassezia causes tinea versicolor, the pale or tan patches that become obvious on the chest and back after sun exposure. Candida yeast thrives in warm, moist folds under the breasts, in the groin and between fingers. Infections spread through direct contact, shared towels, gym floors, pets and from one body site to another, and are more likely with sweating, tight clothing, diabetes or reduced immunity.
Many rashes are mistaken for fungus and treated with the wrong cream, while true fungal infections are sometimes worsened by steroid creams bought over the counter. See a dermatologist if a rash is ring-shaped or spreading, if athlete's foot keeps returning, if the scalp is scaly with hair loss, if a rash has not cleared after two weeks of antifungal cream, or if you have diabetes or a weakened immune system. Conditions such as seborrheic dermatitis, eczema and psoriasis can look similar, and untreated foot infections often progress to fungal nail.
How fungal skin infections are treated at Oaro
At Oaro Dermatology Clinic in Apgujeong, Seoul, a board-certified dermatologist examines the rash, often with a Wood's lamp, and takes a painless scraping for KOH microscopy to confirm fungal elements on the spot; a culture is sent where the species matters. Localised infections are treated with prescription topical antifungals, while widespread, scalp, hair-follicle or recurrent infections may need oral terbinafine, itraconazole or fluconazole after a review of your medications and liver health. The consultation also covers hygiene, footwear and household measures to stop the cycle of re-infection. Browse the medical dermatology hub or book a consultation.
Why patients choose Oaro
- Board-certified dermatologists for medical and cosmetic skin care under one roof
- Dermoscopy, allergy and scalp assessment before any prescription
- Written treatment plan, home-care guidance and follow-up
- Private rooms in Cheongdam Tower, 8 minutes from Apgujeong Rodeo Station
- English-friendly coordination for visitors and expats
Treatment goals
Common goals for fungal skin infection treatment
Confirm it is fungal
Microscopy prevents weeks of the wrong cream and avoids steroid-worsened infections.
Clear the infection fully
Completing the prescribed course, rather than stopping when itch fades, lowers the chance of relapse.
Treat all affected sites
Feet, groin and nails are often infected together and are treated at the same time.
Prevent reinfection
Footwear, towel and laundry habits are adjusted so the fungus does not return from your own environment.
Your visit
What to expect
1. Consultation & diagnosis
Your dermatologist examines the rash and checks feet, nails, groin and scalp for linked infection. Scale is gently scraped onto a slide and examined under the microscope; a Wood's lamp may be used for tinea versicolor or scalp infection. Results are usually available during the visit.
2. Treatment
Limited body, foot or groin infections receive a topical antifungal cream, spray or powder for two to six weeks. Scalp ringworm, extensive rashes, hair-follicle infection and stubborn tinea versicolor are treated with an oral antifungal after the dermatologist checks your other medicines and, where relevant, liver function. Antifungal shampoo or body wash is added for yeast infections and household contacts are advised where needed.
3. Aftercare & follow-up
You receive written instructions on application, laundry and footwear. A review at around four weeks confirms clearance, and persistent cases are re-scraped or cultured.
Cost & insurance
Fungal skin infection treatment cost in Seoul
Fungal infections are medical conditions, so insured residents typically have part of the consultation, microscopy and prescriptions covered by Korean National Health Insurance, paying a co-payment. International visitors to Seoul pay self-pay rates and receive an itemised receipt.
| Option | Typical range (KRW) |
|---|---|
| Consultation and KOH microscopy (self-pay) | 30,000 – 80,000 |
| Fungal culture (if needed) | 20,000 – 60,000 |
| Topical or oral antifungal course (pharmacy) | 10,000 – 60,000 |
Exact pricing is confirmed at consultation after examination.
Home care
Aftercare
- Apply cream beyond the visible edge of the rash and continue for one to two weeks after it clears.
- Dry skin folds and between the toes thoroughly after washing.
- Wash towels, socks and bedding at 60°C and do not share them.
- Alternate shoes, wear breathable socks and use antifungal powder in footwear if you had athlete's foot.
- Treat pets if the dermatologist suspects they are the source of ringworm.
Medically reviewed by
Dr. Chang-hyun Kim, M.D.
Board-certified dermatologist and Representative Director of Oaro Dermatology Clinic, Cheongdam. Full member of the Korean Dermatological Association, the Korean Society of Atopic Dermatitis, the Korean Society of Vitiligo & Pigmentation and the Korean Society of Acne & Rosacea.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if a rash is fungal?
Fungal rashes are often ring-shaped with a scaly, raised edge and clearer centre, or appear as peeling between the toes. A dermatologist confirms it with microscopy rather than guessing.
Is ringworm caused by a worm?
No. Ringworm is a fungal infection named for its ring shape. It has nothing to do with worms.
How long does a fungal skin infection take to clear?
Topical treatment usually clears limited infections in two to four weeks. Scalp or widespread infections treated orally may take six to twelve weeks.
Why does my athlete's foot keep coming back?
Fungus survives in shoes, floors and untreated nails. Treating all sites and changing footwear habits reduces recurrence.
Can I use a steroid cream on a fungal rash?
Steroid creams alone can make fungal infections spread and harder to recognise. Ask a dermatologist at Oaro Dermatology Clinic in Apgujeong before using one.
Explore related care
Related conditions and treatments
- Fungal Nail — the nail infection that often follows athlete's foot
- Bacterial Skin Infection — cracked fungal skin can let bacteria in
- Seborrheic Dermatitis — a yeast-linked rash that mimics tinea
- Itchy Skin — other causes of persistent itch
- Skin Rash — how rashes are diagnosed
- Medical Dermatology — all medical skin services
Same-week appointments
See a board-certified dermatologist in Apgujeong
Bring your questions, medication list and any photos of flare-ups. We will examine your skin, explain the diagnosis and give you a written plan. English-speaking coordinators are available for international patients and expats.