Tinea Versicolor

Tinea versicolor is a superficial fungal infection of the skin. The presence of the fungus alters the normal pigmentation of the skin which presents clinically as small, discolored patches that may be darker or lighter than the surrounding skin. Tinea versicolor most commonly develops on the shoulders and trunk of teens and young adults.

Treatment of tinea versicolor depends on several factors including extent of skin rash, location of skin rash, associated symptoms, and history of prior treatments.  Antifungal shampoos, soaps, creams or foams may be used alone or in combination to keep yeast production under control.

If the tinea versicolor persists or returns despite treatment, which is more likely in tropical and subtropical climates, your dermatologist may recommend a maintenance regimen to more aggressively combat yeast growth.

For more extensive eruptions or tinea versicolor that continues to recur despite topical treatment, oral antifungal medication may be prescribed.

If you are concerned about tinea versicolor, click here to schedule an appointment with our board-certified dermatologists or walk into Walk-in Dermatology at your convenience for your evaluation.