Tinea Versicolor
A common fungal skin infection that causes discolored patches
Quick Facts
- Type: Superficial fungal (yeast) skin infection
- Cause: Overgrowth of Malassezia yeast
- Common areas: Chest, back, shoulders, upper arms
- Contagious: No
Overview
Tinea versicolor is a common skin condition caused by the overgrowth of a yeast called Malassezia that normally lives on everyone's skin. When this yeast multiplies more than usual, it interferes with the skin's normal coloring, producing patches that are lighter or darker than the surrounding skin. The name "versicolor" reflects how the patches can vary in color from person to person.
Despite the name "tinea," which usually refers to ringworm-type infections, this condition is caused by a yeast rather than the molds that cause ringworm. It is not dangerous, not contagious, and does not signal poor hygiene. It is, however, often persistent and tends to come back, particularly in warm, humid weather.
Symptoms
The main feature is patches of discolored skin, usually on areas with more oil glands. Symptoms include:
- Small, flat patches that may be white, pink, tan, or brown
- Patches that often merge into larger areas
- Skin that may look lighter than tanned skin or darker than pale skin
- Fine, dry scaling on the patches
- Mild itching, especially when hot or sweaty
- Most common on the chest, back, shoulders, neck, and upper arms
The patches are often more noticeable in summer because affected skin does not tan the same way as the surrounding skin. Color may take weeks to even out after the infection is treated.
Causes
Tinea versicolor develops when the naturally occurring Malassezia yeast on the skin overgrows and shifts from a harmless form to one that affects pigmentation. Several factors encourage this overgrowth:
- Hot, humid weather: Warmth and moisture promote yeast growth.
- Oily skin: The yeast feeds on skin oils, so oily skin is more prone.
- Sweating: Heavy sweating creates favorable conditions.
- Hormonal changes: Such as during adolescence.
- Weakened immunity: Illness or medications that suppress the immune system.
Because the yeast is already present on the skin, the condition is not caught from another person.
Risk Factors
- Living in a hot, humid climate
- Naturally oily skin
- Excessive sweating
- Being a teenager or young adult
- A weakened immune system
- A previous episode of tinea versicolor, which makes recurrence common
Diagnosis
A doctor or dermatologist can usually diagnose tinea versicolor by looking at the skin. Additional steps may include:
- Wood's lamp examination: A special ultraviolet light that can make the patches glow a characteristic color.
- Skin scraping: Gently scraping a small sample to examine under a microscope, which can reveal the yeast.
These simple tests help distinguish tinea versicolor from other causes of skin discoloration, such as vitiligo or other rashes.
Treatment
Treatment clears the yeast overgrowth, though the skin color may take time to return to normal afterward:
- Antifungal washes and shampoos: Products containing selenium sulfide, ketoconazole, or zinc pyrithione applied to the skin are a common first treatment.
- Topical antifungal creams: Applied to smaller areas.
- Oral antifungal medication: Prescribed for widespread or stubborn cases or frequent recurrences, under a doctor's guidance.
Even after successful treatment, the lighter or darker patches can persist for weeks to months until the skin's pigment evens out. Because recurrence is common, a doctor may recommend using an antifungal wash periodically to keep the condition from returning.
Prevention
- Use an antifungal wash periodically, especially before hot, humid months, if you are prone to recurrences
- Avoid excessive heat and heavy sweating when possible
- Wear loose, breathable clothing
- Avoid oily skin products if your skin is prone to the condition
- Shower and change out of sweaty clothing promptly after exercise
When to See a Doctor
Tinea versicolor is harmless, but see a doctor if:
- Over-the-counter antifungal products do not clear the patches
- The condition is widespread or keeps coming back
- You are unsure whether the discoloration is tinea versicolor or another skin condition
- The patches are spreading quickly, very itchy, or accompanied by other symptoms
A dermatologist can confirm the diagnosis and recommend stronger or preventive treatment when needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is tinea versicolor contagious?
No. It is caused by an overgrowth of yeast that already lives on everyone's skin, so it cannot be passed from person to person. It also does not mean a person has poor hygiene.
Why do the patches stay discolored after treatment?
Treatment clears the yeast, but the affected skin needs time to regain its normal color. The light or dark patches can persist for several weeks to months, especially in areas that tan, even after the infection is gone.
Does tinea versicolor keep coming back?
Yes, it commonly recurs, particularly in hot, humid weather. Using an antifungal wash periodically, especially before warm months, can help prevent it from returning.
How is tinea versicolor different from ringworm?
Although the name includes "tinea," it is caused by a yeast rather than the molds that cause ringworm. It tends to cause flat, discolored patches with fine scaling rather than the ring-shaped, raised border typical of ringworm.
What treatments work for tinea versicolor?
Antifungal shampoos and washes containing selenium sulfide or ketoconazole, antifungal creams, and sometimes oral antifungal medication clear the yeast. A doctor can advise the best option based on how widespread it is.
References
- American Academy of Dermatology. Tinea versicolor.
- Mayo Clinic. Tinea versicolor — Symptoms and causes.
- MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine. Tinea versicolor.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Fungal diseases.