Tinea Versicolor: Care Instructions
Overview
Tinea versicolor is a skin infection. It causes many small spots, usually on the parts of the upper body like the chest and neck. The spots may form patches that have fine scales. The spots and patches may be lighter or darker than the skin around them.
The fungus that causes tinea versicolor normally lives on your skin. Sometimes it can cause a rash. This happens more often where it's hot and humid. Having an impaired immune system may increase your chance of getting this rash. Some people, especially teens and young adults, are more likely to get tinea versicolor. Tinea versicolor doesn't spread from person to person.
You can treat tinea versicolor with cream, ointment, or shampoo. You may need pills if the spots cover a lot of your body. Treatment kills the fungus quickly. Your skin, though, may not return to its normal colour for months after treatment.
Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor or nurse advice line (811 in most provinces and territories) if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.
How can you care for yourself at home?
- Follow the directions for use of creams, shampoos, or solutions. You will probably need to use them for 1 to 2 weeks. If your skin gets irritated, stop using the product, and call your doctor or nurse advice line.
- Dry off well after bathing. Keep your skin dry.
- If the rash keeps coming back, you may want to use a cream, shampoo, or solution one time a month. Your doctor may prescribe pills to prevent the spots from returning.
When should you call for help?
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor or nurse advice line if:
Where can you learn more?
Go to https://www.healthwise.net/patientEd
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Current as of: November 16, 2023
Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.