Overview

Tinea versicolor is a skin infection caused by a fungus. It usually starts with small scaly spots that form patches of skin. The patches may look lighter or darker than the skin around them. In children, the face is often involved. The rash also occurs on the chest, back, and neck.

The fungus that causes tinea versicolor normally lives on skin. But it can cause a rash. This happens more often where it's hot and humid. Some people are more likely to get tinea versicolor. It does not spread from person to person.

You can treat your child's rash with an antifungal shampoo or lotion. Treatment kills the fungus quickly. Your child's skin, though, may not return to normal for months after treatment. Your child can get this condition again after treatment.

How can you care for your child at home?

• Follow the directions for use of creams, shampoos, or solutions. You will probably need to use them on your child for 1 to 2 weeks. If your child's skin gets irritated, stop using the product, and call the doctor or nurse advice line.
• Dry your child well after bathing. Keep your child's skin dry.
• If the rash keeps coming back, you may want to use a cream, shampoo, or solution once a month on your child.