How is tinea versicolor treated?

Tinea versicolor is an overgrowth of a yeast that normally lives on skin. It can create lighter, darker or pinkish patches with fine scale, often on the chest, back, shoulders or neck. Warm, humid conditions and sweating can encourage recurrence. The patches may be more visible after tanning because affected skin does not change colour in the same way. Compare [Tinea Versicolor](/conditions/tinea-versicolor/) with [White Patches On Skin](/symptoms/white-patches-on-skin/) and [Scaly Skin](/symptoms/skin-scaling/).

A clinician or pharmacist may recommend [Topical Antifungal Treatment](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-antifungal-therapy/) as a cream, lotion, wash or shampoo, depending on the area and extent. Follow the product directions and complete the advised course, even if the scale improves quickly. Keep the skin dry after washing, change out of sweaty clothing, and avoid sharing towels or clothing. Antifungal treatment controls the yeast; it may not immediately restore the skin’s colour. Avoid tanning while the contrast is visible. Repeated episodes may need a prevention plan, particularly when sweating is frequent.

Arrange a review if the diagnosis is uncertain, patches are painful, rapidly spreading, inflamed, or not improving after the advised treatment. Seek assessment for a new rash after a medicine, facial or eye involvement, or symptoms of infection. A clinician can check whether [Hypopigmentation](/conditions/hypopigmentation/) or another rash better explains the colour change.

Ask which antifungal format suits the affected area, how long to use it, and when colour should begin to even out. Ask whether recurrent episodes relate to [Hyperhidrosis](/conditions/hyperhidrosis/) and how recurrence can be reduced.