Medicines for Pityriasis versicolor

What it is

Pityriasis versicolor (also called tinea versicolor) is a common, harmless skin condition caused by an overgrowth of a yeast that lives naturally on everyone's skin. In some people, and in certain conditions, this yeast grows more than usual and affects the skin's pigment, causing patches that are a different colour from the surrounding skin — they can be lighter or darker, and range from pink or brown to pale, and are often more noticeable on tanned skin (as the affected areas do not tan) or on darker skin. The patches are usually on the trunk, upper arms, neck and shoulders, may be slightly scaly, and are sometimes mildly itchy. The yeast overgrowth is encouraged by warm, humid weather, sweating, oily skin, and sometimes a weakened immune system, which is why it is more common in warm climates and can recur, especially in summer. It is not contagious and is harmless, though the colour changes can be cosmetically bothersome.

How it is treated

Pityriasis versicolor is treated effectively with antifungal treatments, which clear the yeast overgrowth. These include antifungal shampoos or washes (applied to the affected skin and left on for a time before rinsing) and antifungal creams, available from pharmacies; for widespread or stubborn cases, a doctor may prescribe antifungal tablets. An important point to explain is that, although the treatment clears the infection, the changes in skin colour can take weeks to months to even out and return to normal, even after successful treatment — this is expected and does not mean the treatment has failed. Because the condition often recurs (particularly in warm, humid conditions), some people use an antifungal wash periodically to help prevent it coming back. Good skin hygiene and managing sweating help. If the diagnosis is uncertain, or it does not respond to treatment, a doctor can confirm it. The reassuring message is that pityriasis versicolor is harmless and treatable, with the colour gradually evening out over time.