Those ugly scars and Tinea Versicolor

Skin care matters

Dear Michelle

I have some white spots on my back that have been spreading. They bother me and I don’t know what to do to get rid of them!

— Christina

Hi Christina, it sounds like you have Tinea Versicolor. This is a fungal infection of the skin. It’s also called Pityriasis Versicolor or as we Jamaicans would call it “liver spot”, which is caused by a type of yeast that naturally lives on your skin. When the yeast grows out of control, the skin disease appears as white spots.

The infection can happen for any of the following reasons:

– You have oily skin

– You live in a hot climate

– You sweat a lot

– You have a weak immune system

Because the yeast grows naturally on your skin, Tinea Versicolor is not contagious. The condition can affect people of any skin colour. It’s more likely to affect teens and young adults.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF TINEA VERSICOLOR

Acidic bleach from the growing yeast causes areas of skin to be a different colourthan the skin around them. These can be individual spots or patches. Specific signs and symptoms of the infection include:

– Patches that may be white, pink, red, or brown and can be lighter or darker than the skin around them.

– Spots that do not tan the way the rest of your skin does.

– Spots that may occur anywhere on your body but are most commonly seen on your neck, chest, back, and arms.

The spots may disappear during cool weather and get worse during warm and humid weather. They may be dry and scaly and may itch or hurt, although this is not common.

AT-HOME REMEDIES FOR TINEA VERSICOLOR

(1) Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is an effective home remedy for Tinea Versicolor because of its Antifungal properties. It will inhibit the spread of the infection and prevent recurrence. In addition, it will provide relief from itchiness.

1. Add 5 to 7 drops of tea tree oil to 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil or coconut oil.

2. Apply this oil on the affected area using a cotton ball.

3. Allow it to dry on its own, then rinse it off with lukewarm water and pat dry.

4. Follow this remedy twice daily for a few weeks.

(2) Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is an effective remedy for any type of fungal infection, including Tinea Versicolor. The medium chain fatty acids in coconut oil work as natural fungicides. This means it helps stop the growth of the fungi responsible for the infection.

– Apply some extra virgin coconut oil on the affected areas. Allow it to dry on its own.

– Another option is to mix 1 tablespoon of extra virgin coconut oil and 5 or 6 drops of cinnamon oil. Apply it on the affected skin. Wait 15 to 20 minutes before rinsing it off with warm water.

Follow either of these remedies 2 or 3 times daily until the infection clears up.

(3) Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera has a protein called 14 kDa that possesses antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties that are effective in treating Tinea Versicolor. It can significantly reduce the fungi’s ability to spread. In addition, it has many healing properties that promote healing of the damaged skin.

– Extract fresh aloe vera gel from an aloe vera leaf. Apply the gel directly on the affected skin areas, 2 or 3 times daily for several weeks.

– Another option is to mix a few drops of lavender oil in 1 teaspoon of aloe vera gel.

Apply it on the affected areas 2 or 3 times a day.

(4) Yogurt

Plain, unsweetened yogurt is a natural cure for fungal infection like Tinea Versicolor. The probiotics present in plain yogurt keep the growth of fungi in check. This in turn promotes quick recovery and prevents recurrence.

– Apply plain yogurt on the affected skin. Leave it on for at least 20 to 30 minutes, then rinse it off with warm water.

– Also, eat 2 to 3 cups of plain yogurt daily to help fight the yeast internally.

(5) Oregano Oil

You can clear up Tinea Versicolor using oregano essential oil. It is one of the most potent antifungal oils, which can fight the fungi responsible for the condition as well as reduce the symptoms.

1. Prepare a solution with equal amounts of oregano essential oil and extra virgin olive oil.

2. Apply it on the affected areas using a cotton ball.

3. Leave it on for 30 minutes, then rinse it off with lukewarm water.

4. Follow this remedy once daily for a few weeks.

You can also take oregano essential oil supplements, after consulting a doctor.

(6) Garlic

Garlic is also an effective remedy for Tinea Versicolor. Its antifungal properties help stop the growth of fungi and provide relief from itching.

– Apply garlic oil or freshly extracted garlic juice on the affected areas. Wait 20 minutes, then take a bath or shower. Do this once daily for a few weeks.

_ Also, consume 2 to 3 cloves of raw garlic with warm water on an empty stomach daily to treat and prevent recurrence of Tinea Versicolor.

_ A garlic supplement can be a great addition to your regimen to prevent any kind of skin infection. Consult a doctor for the correct dosage.

(7) Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is a good remedy for Tinea Versicolor. Due to its antimicrobial properties, apple cider vinegar helps control the abnormal growth of the fungi. In addition, it helps prevent recurrence of the infection.

– Mix equal amounts of apple cider vinegar and lukewarm water. Dab a cotton ball in this solution and apply it on the affected area. Wait 15 minutes before rinsing it off with warm water. Follow this remedy once daily for a few weeks.

– Also, mix 2 tablespoons of raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar in a glass of water and drink it twice daily.

(8) Turmeric

Turmeric is another popular traditional remedy for Tinea Versicolor. Its natural antiseptic, antibiotic and antifungal properties promote healing and prevent the infection from recurring.

Add 3 to 4 teaspoons of raw, unprocessed tumeric to a large jug of water. After taking a bath, pour this turmeric-infused water on the affected area.

– Alternatively, mix equal amounts of turmeric powder and sandalwood powder. Add enough water to make a paste. Apply the paste to the affected areas. Leave it on for 30 minutes, then take a bath or shower.

Follow either of these remedies once daily until the spots disappear.

(9) Indian Lilac

Indian lilac, also known as Neem, is a very effective treatment for skin infections. This herb contains antifungal, antimicrobial and antiseptic properties. It helps control the growth of the fungi that causes Tinea Versicolor and promotes quick healing.

– Boil a handful of washed Neem leaves in 2 cups of water for 10 minutes. Strain and allow the water to cool. Use this water to wash the affected area, 2 or 3 times a day for a few weeks.

– Another option is to grind some Neem leaves with water. Apply this paste directly on the affected area, allow it to dry and then wash it off with water. Follow this remedy once daily for a few weeks.

– Alternatively, soak a cotton ball in Neem oil mixed with carrier oil such as olive oil or coconut oil and apply it on the infected area. Do this twice daily for at least 2 to 3 weeks.

(10) Healthy Diet

Since weak immunity contributes to Tinea Versicolor, a healthy immune-boosting diet should be an important part of your treatment. Proper nutrition can boost the immune system and help prevent and fight the infection.

A diet high in vitamins A, C, E and B helps give your immune system a healthy boost

– Include fresh fruits and vegetables in your diet.

– Eat foods with probiotics, such as yogurt and kefir.

– Avoid too much carbohydrates in your diet, as it stimulates yeast production.

At the same time, drink plenty of water daily to get rid of harmful toxins that can compromise the immune system.

Over-the-counter remedies

Over-the-counter treatment of Tinea Versicolor can consist of creams, lotions, or shampoos that are put on the skin. It can also include medication given as pills.

The type of treatment will depend on the size, location, and thickness of the infected area.

Treatment options include:

– Topical antifungals

These products are applied directly to your skin and may be in the form of lotion, shampoo, cream, foam, or soap. They keep the growth of the yeast under control. Over-the-counter antifungal topical products containing ingredients such as zinc, pyrithione, selenium sulfide, miconzale,clotrimazole, and terbinafine are available. if these over-the-counter medications don’t work it’s advised to see a specialist where prescription medications may be needed.

– Antifungal pills

These may be used to treat more serious or recurrent cases of Tinea Versicolor. Or in some cases they may be used because they can provide a simpler and quicker resolution of the infection. These medicines are given by prescription and can have side effects. So it’s important to be monitored by your doctor while using antifungal pills.

Treatment usually eliminates the fungal infection. However, the discoloration of the skin may take up to several months to resolve.

Lifestyle Tips for Managing Tinea Versicolor

Recurrent episodes are very common because the yeast that causes the infection is a normal fungus that lives on skin. Medicated cleansers may be used one or two times a month to help prevent Tinea Versicolor from coming back. You may need to use these cleansers if the infection keeps returning, especially if you live in a warm and humid area.

Here are some tips to help you manage Tinea Versicolor:

– Avoid using oily skin products.

– Reduce your exposure to the sun. Exposure to the sun may trigger or worsen an episode, and a tan makes the rash more visible.

– If you have to go out in the sun, consider using an antifungal shampoo daily for a couple of days prior to sun exposure.

– Put on sunscreen every day. Use a non-greasy formula with a minimum sun protection factor (SPF) of 30.

– Do not wear tight clothing.

– Wear breathable fabrics, such as cotton, to decrease sweating.

Apple cider vinegar

Healthy diet

Tumeric

Home Remedies for Tinea Versicolor

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Tinea Versicolor is a common infection on the skin that is caused by fungi. It is an infection which is caused by a yeast type that naturally crops up on the skin. It is actually harmless. However, it leads to infection in certain circumstances. As infection occurs, rashes will develop, which usually take place around the upper arms, shoulders, back, chest and neck.

Areas like the underarms and the breast’s underside, which tend to be damp, can also be affected by the yeast. Infection has taken place once you notice that the affected areas started discoloring. Discoloration may be darker or lighter. Once discoloration is noticed, you should not take it for granted. Search for some home remedies for Tinea Versicolor and start treating the infection. Some of the home remedy options you have are:

The Top 4 Home Remedies for Tinea Versicolor

1. Aloe Vera
This is among the most effective home remedies for Tinea Versicolor. It has ingredients that are known to help in Tinea Versicolor prevention. These ingredients are salicylic acid, phenol, lupeopl, urea nitrogen, cinnamic acids and sulphur. Aloe Vera is also known to reduce the spread of fungi. It also has an active anti-fungal agent. This agent is in the form of protein and is called 14 kDa. This protein is capable of suppressing the growth of fungi. As one of the home remedies for Tinea Versicolor, you can use aloe vera as a topical gel. Apply the treatment on areas affected by the yeast. If dandruff caused by this yeast type appears, use aloe vera and apply it on your scalp. Apply this before you start with your shower. It is a good home remedy since you do not need to wash off any residue. You do not also need to worry about any side effects since it has none.

2. Tea Tree Oil
It is also among the most common antifungal agents. It has proven its effectiveness on several skin infections. It is a good option in treating the yeast infection as you only have to apply little amount of it. Application of tea tree oil on the affected area should be done once daily within two weeks. But be reminded to apply only the diluted oil. To know whether this home remedy is for you, start applying it on a small area. Proceed with the application if there is no occurrence of adverse effects.

3. Candle Bush
This option from the home remedies for Tinea Versicolor is also called the senna alata. It is also used in treating several skin infections. You can simply buy the prepared candle bush or make your own. To make the treatment, grind the leaves of candle bush with olive oil. Apply the prepared mixture two times a day.

4. Apple Cider Vinegar
As one of the home remedies for Tinea Versicolor, apple cider vinegar is also known to be an active antifungal agent. Same with tea tree oil, you have to dilute this home remedy before applying. Once, diluted, you can start applying it on the infected areas.

It is vital to remember that this infection tends to recur. That is why it is recommended to repeat your chosen treatments at least once every month. It is suggested even after the infection stopped.

Filed Under: Skin Articles and Infographics

Lichen in a cat: what are the symptoms and how to treat

If your cat’s smooth movements have given way to fussy scratching, lichen may be to blame. How to cure it and prevent recurrence? Let’s figure it out together with Hill’s veterinarians.

Causes

Ringworm is a skin infection caused by various fungi. Most often, cats become infected from each other: spores are transmitted through the scales of the epidermis and hair.

However, the presence of a fungus on a cat’s fur does not mean a disease. If the cat is healthy, its microflora will independently cope with pathogenic organisms. But with a decrease in immunity, the balance of microflora is disturbed, fungi begin to multiply actively, and the cat develops lichen.

Factors that provoke infection:

Immunocompromised cats. As well as kittens up to 1 year old, pregnant cats; cats infected with infectious diseases and parasites. Exhaustion and constant stress can also cause a weakening of the immune system and, as a result, the infection is deprived

Improper conditions of detention. Lichen in a domestic cat can develop due to poor nutrition or poor hygiene. This item also includes the neglect of planned visits to the veterinarian.

Genetic predisposition. Artificially bred cat breeds do not have inherent immunity to the disease. Pets with sensitive skin will also find it difficult to resist fungal colonies.

Self-walking cats. Contact with outdoor animals – cats, dogs, rodents – will almost certainly lead to infection with pathogenic fungi. Assess all risks before sending your cat free range.

Types and symptoms.

Many cat owners have no idea what lichen looks like and mistake any redness or baldness for it. In fact, all types of this disease have characteristic signs.

Ringworm in cats. Diagnosis with this type of lichen is usually called trichophytosis or microsporia of cats. This is the most common type of disease among animals, in which the hair seems to be cut off with invisible scissors – most often irrevocably.

However, you have the option not to bring the cat to such a state. In the first stages of the disease, only a small rash appears, and the pet begins to itch actively. If you do not go to a veterinarian, the rash will turn into scaly patches, and then into extensive foci of baldness.

Ringworm is a zoonotic disease, that is, a disease that can be transmitted from cats to humans (and vice versa). Children, the elderly and those with weakened immune systems are especially sensitive to it.

Pityriasis rosea. Appears as numerous pink patches that peel off in the center and remain smooth at the edges. This type of lichen is viral and often resolves on its own.

But this is not a reason to neglect a visit to the veterinarian. This type of lichen can be in a cat with an unbalanced diet, as well as due to constant stress.

Pityriasis rosea gives the green light to co-infections, and pathogens that enter the affected areas can cause inflammation. Keep your pet calm and nutritious, but don’t bathe until the spots are gone.

Pityriasis versicolor. This type of lichen is characterized by the appearance on the body of a cat of a pigment spot from yellow to brown, the spots can merge, forming larger areas, the cause of its occurrence is also a fungus. This type of lichen is dangerous to humans. If the fungus has got not only on the skin, but also in the structure of the claws, they are deformed. With this type of lichen, itching is practically absent, and the cat will not be able to point out the problem to you by actively scratching.

Weeping lichen. Also known as eczema. It can be caused by internal problems in the cat’s body (stress or hormonal failure), as well as external factors that provoke allergies, such as a new detergent. The disease begins with small red spots, in place of which bubbles with liquid later form.

This type of lichen is not contagious, but the pet should be taken to the veterinarian. If eczema is left untreated, burst blisters can lead to infection and pustules.

Diagnosis and treatment

An external examination of the pet is not enough to make a diagnosis. Even a specialist cannot always distinguish lichen from dermatitis or alopecia without the following methods:

If the ultraviolet lamp shows a characteristic green glow, spores of the fungus are detected during microscopy, and sowing on the medium diagnoses a specific pathogen – lichen is diagnosed. In cats, this disease is treated in several ways:

• Taking antifungal drugs.

• Treatment of affected areas.

• Restoration of immunity (balanced nutrition that will provide the cat with the necessary nutrients).

After the course of treatment, it is necessary to take the culture again. The cat is declared healthy after two negative culture results with an interval of 1 month.

Home treatment for lichen in cats is possible only after visiting a veterinarian. Self-administration of drugs can cause overdose or side effects.

Prevention

For the owner

In order not to get infected from a cat, exclude its contact with household items: bed linen, towels, clothes. Every day, vacuum the room where the sick animal is located and do a wet cleaning – this will help remove infected spores and hairs. And for surface treatment, use solutions with antifungal action

For pets

The most reliable ways to prevent lichen are to maintain the pet’s immunity with a complete and balanced diet, compliance with maintenance standards and a comfortable home environment. There is also a vaccination against lichen. Administering the vaccine twice, 10 to 14 days apart, will provide protection against fungi for the next 12 months. Even if infection does occur, the disease will proceed in a mild form. Timely visits to the veterinarian will also serve as a preventive measure against infection.

Take care of yourself and your pets!

Lichen in cats: causes and treatment

Ringworm is a collective term for several skin conditions that are the result of an allergy, weakened immune system, fungal or bacterial infection. This disease is very contagious and if proper hygiene is not observed, the infection is transmitted from a sick animal not only to a healthy one, but also to a person.

Causes of lichen

Fungi that cause the development of lichen can be found in grass, soil, wool of other animals, and are very viable. Basically, street cats are prone to deprive. However, a domestic cat can be infected by an owner who has brought the infection on the surface of his clothes or the soles of his shoes.

Infection is not a serious threat to an adult cat with good immunity. If the animal has experienced a lot of stress, then the risk will increase.

Kittens are most susceptible to infection, as their immune system has not yet formed. Also at risk are animals with other pathologies. Poor nutrition, wounds and abrasions on the skin of a pet – all this only contributes to infection with lichen.

Lichen types and symptoms

The occurrence of lichen in an animal can be determined by the following general signs:

• the animal’s coat loses its healthy shine (darkens), becomes brittle;
• the appearance of small vesicles on the skin, which eventually become crusted and flaky;
• hair loss occurs at the site of the rash.

Due to severe itching, the pet actively combs the site of the rash, thereby spreading the lichen to other parts of the body.

Knowledge of the species and their inherent symptoms will allow the veterinarian to most fully and accurately prescribe treatment for the speedy recovery of the pet.

Shearer

The first sign of ringworm is restlessness and constant scratching by the animal of one zone. In this place, small scaly spots appear on the skin, covered with crusts. The hair above them begins to fall out, and reddish skin is visible in the bald places. Without treatment, the spots become covered with gray scabs and spread throughout the body.

Pityriasis

A small, pale oval spot appears on the affected person. After a few days, it grows and merges with the neighboring ones. If the paw of the animal has been infected, then the infection can go to the claw and lead to its deformation. With all this, the cat practically does not suffer from itching, and the spots can disappear when the ambient temperature drops.

Pityriasis rosea

It is characterized by the appearance of pink rounded spots with a diameter of 1.5-2 centimeters. The spots are smooth and peel off along the edge. They often occur on the abdomen, inner thighs, and groin. Itching may be very mild or completely absent. But if treated, they can become infected and lead to such serious consequences as fever, joint pain and inflammation of the lymph nodes.

Weeping lichen

It manifests itself in the form of red spots with small bubbles, when touched, the pet experiences pain. The skin around the spots becomes hot. When the vesicles burst, the fluid flows out and infects healthy tissues, and a crust forms at the site of the rupture.

Diagnostics

At the very first visit, the veterinarian finds out from the owner that he is worried about the animal and examines it with the help of a Wood’s lamp, in the fluorescent rays of which the infected areas glow green.

In the course of microbiological analysis, the causative agent of the infection is determined. For him, a scraping is made from the affected area and placed in a nutrient medium, after which the grown microflora is examined under a microscope. The method is considered the most reliable, but it takes time (up to 3 weeks).

Treatment

Treatment of lichen depends on the form and nature of the course of the disease. In many cases, it is enough to put a protective collar on the cat to prevent licking and treat the affected skin with ointments in time, in severe cases – complex therapy using tablets, injections and external agents.

The affected areas are restored within 2 weeks, but full recovery occurs in 4-6 weeks with strict adherence to all the recommendations of the specialist.

Ringworm

In the fight against ringworm, pills and injections, external ointments and antifungal sprays help. For better contact of the drug with the skin, the hair around the infected area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe skin is shaved off.

Pink

A mild form of rosacea may not require special treatment. To recover, it is enough to adjust the nutrition of the animal, take quarantine measures and forget about bath procedures for several weeks.