Typically, the condition won’t lead to serious issues if untreated.
Tinea versicolor medication can help improve the patches of discolored skin and symptoms like itching.
Tinea versicoloris a yeast-like fungal infection of the skin.
Verywell / JR Bee
It is also known aspityriasisversicolor.
The condition is neither contagious nor dangerous, but it can be persistent, recurring, and bothersome.
Some people may need to use a tinea versicolor treatment every month to keep it at bay.
DermNet NZ/CC BY-NC-ND
This article discusses types of tinea versicolor treatments, including home remedies, and when each is used.
Verywell / JR Bee
What Is Tinea Versicolor?
Tinea versicolor isn’t dangerous or contagious, but other tinea infections can be.
DermNet NZ/CC BY-NC-ND
These includetinea corporisandtinea capitis.
A tinea versicolor infection produces a characteristic rash on the torso and shoulders.
These are more noticeable on tanned skin.
DermNet NZ/CC BY-NC-ND
Some people report itching with tinea versicolor, though this does not happen for everyone.
This photo contains content that some people may find graphic or disturbing.
These remedies can cause skin irritation and should be tested on a small patch of skin.
How Long Does It Take for Tinea Versicolor Treatment to Work?
The tinea versicolor fungus typically clears up within one to two weeks after you begin treatment.
However, the discoloration can persist for much longer.
you might expect the discolored patches to gradually fade over time until they are no longer noticeable.
It may take months for skin tone to return to normal.
The most effective prescription antifungals for tinea versicolor include:
What Makes Tinea Versicolor Hard to Treat?
Some people experience chronic forms of tinea versicolor.
However, more often than not, the rash returns.
The goal is to manage the yeast population, which requires constant maintenance when conditions for overgrowth are present.
Oral antifungal pills can be used for harder-to-treat cases.
Diflucan (fluconazole) is an oral antifungal that is effective against tinea versicolor.
Side effects of oral antifungal medications include nausea and reversible liver damage.
However, the course of treatment is usually short and these side effects are not common.
Usingdandruff shampoosas a body wash is a common, low-cost solution.
For prescription tinea versicolor medication, check with your insurance provider to see what coverage is available.
Your healthcare provider also may be able to help with samples or special deals.
Summary
Tinea versicolor is a skin infection triggered by overgrowth of a common fungus.
It causes patches of discolored skin that are treated with antifungal medication.
If you suspect you have tinea versicolor, talk to your healthcare provider about treatment options.
Tinea versicolor usually responds well to topical treatments but more stubborn cases may require prescription antifungal pills.
Maintenance treatments may be needed to prevent recurrences.
Some people have success using dandruff shampoos to treat tinea versicolor and prevent a recurrence.
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