Tinea Versicolor
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 6, 2024.
What is tinea versicolor?
Tinea versicolor is an infection that leaves colored spots on your skin. This infection is not harmful.
What increases my risk for tinea versicolor?
Tinea versicolor is not spread from one person to another. A fungus that is normally present on your skin overgrows and affects skin pigment. The following increase your risk:
- Skin moisture from sweating or wearing tight clothes
- Living in hot, humid weather
- Conditions such as a weak immune system or pregnancy
- Certain medicines, such as steroids or birth control pills
What are the signs and symptoms of tinea versicolor?
You may not have any symptoms until you see spots on your skin. You may have many oval, patchy spots on your chest, back, arms, or face. They may be white, pink, red, or brown. The spots may be close together and cover a large area. They may be lighter than the rest of your skin in summer and darker in winter. The spots may itch.
How is tinea versicolor diagnosed?
Your healthcare provider will examine your skin and ask when color changes started. Tell your provider about any health conditions you have. Tell your provider about medicines you recently took or currently take. Your provider may be able to tell you have tinea versicolor by the shape and color of the spots.
How is tinea versicolor treated?
Tinea versicolor is usually treated with an antifungal cream or shampoo. You may need to use the cream or shampoo for up to 4 weeks to treat your symptoms. Apply the cream or shampoo as directed. It may take several weeks or months after treatment for the color of your skin to return to normal.
Treatment options
The following list of medications are related to or used in the treatment of this condition.
How can I manage or prevent tinea versicolor?
Tinea versicolor usually comes back, especially in hot and humid times of the year. You can manage the symptoms and help prevent it from coming back. Keep your skin clean and dry. Dry your skin completely after you bathe and play sports. Dry between your toes, between folds, and other areas where skin touches skin. You may also need to apply antifungal shampoo to your skin each month to prevent another infection.
When should I call my doctor?
- Your infection does not get better within 2 weeks of treatment.
- Your signs and symptoms get worse or come back after treatment.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
Care Agreement
You have the right to help plan your care. Learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your healthcare providers to decide what care you want to receive. You always have the right to refuse treatment. The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.© Copyright Merative 2024 Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes.
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Symptoms and treatments
Further information
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