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Ringworm of the beard often appears as round or oval patches of bare, scaly skin. Typically, the circular patches spread along their outer borders while clearing at the center, giving a ringed appearance and the name "ringworm." However, this pattern is not always seen.

In the most severe cases, the infected area is inflamed, reddened, crusty, tender, and swollen, with small blisterlike bumps. Without treatment, permanent scarring and bare patches can occur.