Tinea Versicolor is a skin condition in which a person suffers from discoloration of the skin. It is a fungal condition that is caused by yeast that lives on the skin naturally. Tinea Versicolor on the face is an infection that happens when the yeast grows out of control. This results in rash formation which then further hints at tinea versicolor.
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What are Tinea Versicolor Causes?
The yeast that causes tinea versicolor normally grows on healthy skin but some factors can act as a trigger for this disease:
- Hypersweating or too much sweat production
- Hormonal changes
- Suppressed immune system
- Oily skin
- Hot and humid climate conditions
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What is Tinea Versicolor Symptoms?
The continuous and uncontrolled growth of this yeast leads to the production of acidic bleach which causes discoloration of the skin. From individual spots to patches, tinea Versicolor includes the following symptoms as well:
- White red, brown, and dark patches around the skin
- Spots that do not get tanned while the other skin does
- Spots that become more visible when the skin gets a natural tan
- Dry, scaly, and spots that lead to itching and hurt as well
- Spots that get developed anywhere on the body but are more visible on the chest, back, and arms
These spots and patches can get worse during hot and humid reasons but might disappear during cold weather.
But the symptoms of tinea versicolor can also collide with the following conditions
Pityriasis rosea
A condition in which a person suffers from rashes on the skin that are the shape of trees
Vitiligo
Another skin discoloration disease
Is Tinea Versicolor Contagious?
No, tinea versicolor is not a contagious disease. But it can spread from skin-to-skin contact with an infected person’s clothing.
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How is Tinea Versicolor Diagnosed?
According to Dr. Areesha Fatima who is an experienced dermatologist, your healthcare provider might start with a physical examination. They will assess the type, color, and spread of the rashes. But they might also recommend the given below tests:
Black Light Examination
The doctor will assess the skin under the UV light and if the rashes or spots appear coppery orange then tinea versicolor is confirmed.
Skin Biopsy
During the biopsy, the doctor takes a skin sample and then looks at it under the microscope. This way they will diagnose the tinea versicolor.
Microscope Testing with Potassium Hydroxide
According to the health experts of Saifee Hospital, a skin sample is taken and is then soaked in potassium hydroxide. The sample is then placed under the microscope so that the doctor can assess the sample.
Read More: How to treat skin rashes naturally?;.
What are the Treatments for Tinea Versicolor?
The treatments of tinea versicolor range from creams to lotions. But if the condition is worsening then the doctor can also prescribe some shampoos. The treatment methodology depends upon the age, condition, environmental factors, and severity of the skin rashes.
Some other remedies are as follows:
Antifungal Pills
In case of recurrent and persistent tinea versicolor situations, doctors might recommend antifungal pills. But make sure to consult with your doctor about these medications and if you are taking any other medications. This is mainly because of the fact that these medications can cause serious side effects.
Topical Antifungals
Topical antifungals are available in the form of lotion, shampoo, creams as well as soap.
What Happens if You Leave Tinea Versicolor Untreated?
It might worsen the situation of skin causing itching and serious discomfort.
What are the Preventions of Tinea Versicolor?
Although tinea versicolor can get worse in hot and humid conditions there are some medicated cleansers that you can use to control the infection to some extent. There are some preventive measures that you can try to control tinea versicolor.
- Do not use oily skin care products
- In case you have to go out make sure to use an anti-fungal shampoo
- Try to put on sunblock or sunscreen wherever you go out. Make sure to use a broad-spectrum one for this purpose.
- Make sure to use a dandruff shampoo with selenium sulfide
- Try to wear loose clothing and avoid leather clothing
- Use cotton or other breathable fabrics
A Note from Healthwire
Tinea versicolor can cause emotional distress and confidence problems if left untreated. That is why make sure to consult the best skin specialists via Healthwire for better treatment opportunities. They will guide you properly in these regards.
Till then stay happy, and stay healthy!
