What does tinea versicolor look like?

Tinea versicolor may cause:

White, pink, tan, brown or gray patches
Fine, powdery scale
Mild itching
Patches that merge into larger areas
Discoloration that becomes more noticeable after sun exposure

It commonly develops on the:

Chest
Upper back
Shoulders
Neck
Upper arms
Abdomen

Children may also develop patches on the face.

The affected skin may not tan normally, making lighter areas appear more obvious during the summer.

Is tinea versicolor contagious?

Tinea versicolor is not generally considered contagious because the yeast involved already lives on most people’s skin.

It is not caused by poor hygiene. Heat, sweating, oily skin, hormonal changes and a weakened immune system can make overgrowth more likely.

Teenagers and young adults develop it frequently because their skin tends to produce more oil.

How is tinea versicolor diagnosed?

A dermatologist may diagnose tinea versicolor by examining the patches and gently scraping the surface.

When confirmation is needed, a small skin sample can be examined under a microscope. A Wood’s lamp may also be used to look for changes that support the diagnosis.

Testing helps distinguish tinea versicolor from vitiligo, eczema, seborrheic dermatitis and other causes of altered pigmentation.

How is tinea versicolor treated?

Treatment may include:

Antifungal cream or lotion
Antifungal shampoo or wash
Selenium sulfide
Ketoconazole
Ciclopirox
Other topical antifungal medication
Oral antifungal medication for widespread or recurring cases

Oral medication is not necessary for most patients and requires review of possible side effects and medication interactions.

The yeast may clear before normal color returns. Skin tone can take weeks or months to become more even, so persistent light or dark patches do not always mean treatment failed.

Can tinea versicolor return?

Recurrence is common, particularly in warm, humid climates. A provider may recommend periodic use of an antifungal cleanser or another maintenance treatment.

Keeping the skin cool and dry when practical may also help, although recurrence can occur despite appropriate hygiene.

Schedule a tinea versicolor consultation

Discolored patches can have several causes and do not always require antifungal treatment. The Dermatology Clinic can confirm the diagnosis, recommend treatment and develop a maintenance plan when infections repeatedly return. Contact us today to get scheduled.