Tinea versicolor

Tinea versicolor causes light or dark patches of skin. Dermatologists at Atrium Health Floyd and Harbin Clinic are skilled in the diagnosis and treatment of this skin condition. They can help restore your skin’s appearance and prevent tinea versicolor from returning.

What is tinea versicolor?

Tinea versicolor is a fungal infection that affects the skin. It causes areas of discolored skin but is not contagious or harmful to your health.

Causes of tinea versicolor

The fungus that causes tinea versicolor, Malassezia, is a type of yeast that’s normally present on most people’s skin. Under certain circumstances, the fungus causes patches of light or dark discoloration.

Tinea versicolor symptoms & diagnosis

Tinea versicolor starts as small rash-like dots on the back, chest, neck or arms. The dots may merge to cover larger swaths of skin. These areas may be dry, scaly or itchy.

The color of tinea versicolor varies depending on skin tone but ranges from white, pink and red to tan and brown. It tends to be lighter on dark skin and darker on light skin. Sun exposure does not change the color of the patches.

Doctors diagnose tinea versicolor by examining the appearance of your skin and looking at a scraping of skin under a microscope.

Tinea versicolor risk factors

You may be more likely to develop tinea versicolor if you:

• Have oily skin
• Live in a warm, humid climate
• Sweat a lot
• Use skin products that clog your pores

Genetic factors and conditions that weaken your immune system may also make you more likely to develop this condition.

Tinea versicolor treatment

Antifungal medications are the main treatment, although they can take time to work. You may apply the medication to your skin or use a medicated soap. In some cases, you may need to take an antifungal pill.

Over-the-counter antifungal creams, lotions or shampoos may also work for mild cases.

Tinea versicolor often comes back. Your doctor may recommend periodic antifungal treatment to prevent a recurrence. Avoiding excessive heat and sweating can also help.