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Tinea versicolor treatment at home. Tinea Versicolor Treatment: Effective Home Remedies and Medical Solutions

What is tinea versicolor. How can you recognize its symptoms. What causes this fungal skin condition. Which home remedies and medical treatments are most effective for managing tinea versicolor. How can you prevent recurrence of tinea versicolor.

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Understanding Tinea Versicolor: Causes, Symptoms, and Diagnosis

Tinea versicolor, also known as pityriasis versicolor, is a common fungal skin infection caused by an overgrowth of the Malassezia yeast that naturally lives on our skin. This condition results in discolored patches on the skin, which can be lighter or darker than the surrounding areas.

Key Symptoms of Tinea Versicolor

  • Discolored patches on the skin (red, brown, pink, or slightly tanned)
  • Itchy, scaly, and dry patches
  • More noticeable discoloration after sun exposure
  • Patches may disappear in cooler, less humid weather

Tinea versicolor commonly affects the arms, chest, neck, and back. The exact cause of the fungal overgrowth is not fully understood, but several factors can increase the risk of developing this condition.

Risk Factors for Tinea Versicolor

  • Hot and humid climate
  • Excessive sweating
  • Oily skin
  • Weakened immune system
  • Hormonal changes
  • Family history of the condition
  • Certain medications that affect immunity or hormonal balance

Diagnosing tinea versicolor often involves a visual examination by a healthcare professional. In some cases, additional tests may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis.

Diagnostic Methods for Tinea Versicolor

  1. Skin scraping test
  2. Potassium hydroxide (KOH) microscopy
  3. Skin biopsy
  4. Wood’s lamp test

Natural Remedies for Treating Tinea Versicolor at Home

While medical treatments are available, many people prefer to try natural remedies first. These home-based solutions can be effective in managing tinea versicolor symptoms and promoting skin health.

Essential Oils for Tinea Versicolor

Essential oils have gained popularity for their antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties. How can essential oils help with tinea versicolor. Two essential oils that have shown promise in treating this condition are tea tree oil and eucalyptus oil.

Tea tree oil recipe:

  • Mix 7 drops of tea tree oil with 1 teaspoon of coconut oil
  • Apply to affected areas for 30-60 minutes
  • Rinse off and repeat 2-3 times daily

Eucalyptus oil recipe:

  • Combine 6-7 drops of eucalyptus oil with 1 teaspoon of carrier oil
  • Massage into affected areas for 30-40 minutes
  • Wash off and repeat multiple times daily

Baking Soda for Tinea Versicolor

Baking soda is a versatile household item that can also be used to treat tinea versicolor. How does baking soda help with this fungal infection. Baking soda has antifungal properties and can help balance the pH of your skin, creating an environment less favorable for fungal growth.

To use baking soda:

  • Mix 2 tablespoons of baking soda with water to form a paste
  • Apply the paste to affected areas and leave for 10 minutes
  • Rinse off with lukewarm water
  • Repeat daily for best results

The Power of Natural Ingredients in Combating Tinea Versicolor

Nature provides us with numerous ingredients that possess antifungal and skin-soothing properties. Let’s explore some of these powerful natural remedies for tinea versicolor.

Garlic: Nature’s Antifungal Powerhouse

Garlic has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. How can garlic help with tinea versicolor. Garlic contains allicin, a compound with strong antifungal properties that can help combat the Malassezia yeast responsible for tinea versicolor.

To use garlic for tinea versicolor:

  • Crush 2-3 cloves of fresh garlic
  • Mix with a small amount of olive oil to form a paste
  • Apply to affected areas for 15-20 minutes
  • Rinse off and repeat daily

Yogurt: Probiotics for Skin Health

Yogurt is not just a healthy snack; it can also be beneficial for your skin. How does yogurt help with tinea versicolor. The probiotics in yogurt can help restore the balance of microorganisms on your skin, potentially reducing the overgrowth of Malassezia yeast.

To use yogurt for tinea versicolor:

  • Apply plain, unsweetened yogurt directly to affected areas
  • Leave on for 20-30 minutes
  • Rinse off with lukewarm water
  • Repeat daily for best results

Harnessing the Benefits of Oils in Tinea Versicolor Treatment

Various oils have been found to be effective in managing tinea versicolor due to their antifungal and skin-nourishing properties. Let’s examine some of the most beneficial oils for this condition.

Coconut Oil: A Versatile Remedy

Coconut oil is renowned for its numerous health benefits, including its potential to treat skin conditions. How does coconut oil help with tinea versicolor. Coconut oil contains medium-chain fatty acids, particularly lauric acid, which has antifungal properties that can help combat the Malassezia yeast.

To use coconut oil for tinea versicolor:

  • Apply a thin layer of virgin coconut oil to affected areas
  • Leave on overnight or for at least 3 hours
  • Rinse off with lukewarm water
  • Repeat daily for best results

Castor Oil: An Ancient Remedy Rediscovered

Castor oil has been used for centuries in traditional medicine. How can castor oil help with tinea versicolor. Castor oil contains ricinoleic acid, which has antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties that may help manage tinea versicolor symptoms.

To use castor oil for tinea versicolor:

  • Apply a thin layer of castor oil to affected areas
  • Gently massage into the skin
  • Leave on for at least 2 hours or overnight
  • Rinse off and repeat daily

Natural Extracts and Their Role in Tinea Versicolor Treatment

Nature provides us with various plant extracts that have shown promise in treating skin conditions like tinea versicolor. Let’s explore some of these powerful natural remedies.

Grapefruit Seed Extract: A Potent Antifungal Agent

Grapefruit seed extract is known for its antimicrobial properties. How does grapefruit seed extract help with tinea versicolor. The extract contains compounds that have antifungal effects, potentially helping to control the overgrowth of Malassezia yeast on the skin.

To use grapefruit seed extract:

  • Mix 10-15 drops of grapefruit seed extract with 1 cup of water
  • Apply the solution to affected areas using a cotton ball
  • Leave on for 15-20 minutes before rinsing
  • Repeat twice daily for best results

Neem: An Ayurvedic Remedy for Skin Health

Neem has been used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. How can neem help with tinea versicolor. Neem contains compounds with antifungal and antibacterial properties that may help combat the Malassezia yeast and soothe irritated skin.

To use neem for tinea versicolor:

  • Grind neem leaves into a paste
  • Apply the paste to affected areas
  • Leave on for 20-30 minutes before rinsing
  • Repeat daily for best results

Dietary Approaches and Supplements for Managing Tinea Versicolor

While topical treatments are essential, addressing tinea versicolor from the inside out can also be beneficial. Let’s explore some dietary approaches and supplements that may help manage this condition.

Vitamins for Skin Health

Certain vitamins play crucial roles in maintaining healthy skin and supporting the immune system. How can vitamins help with tinea versicolor. Vitamins like vitamin D, vitamin B7 (biotin), and vitamin C may help strengthen the skin’s barrier function and support the immune system in combating fungal overgrowth.

Consider incorporating the following vitamin-rich foods into your diet:

  • Vitamin D: Fatty fish, egg yolks, fortified dairy products
  • Vitamin B7 (Biotin): Eggs, nuts, sweet potatoes, avocados
  • Vitamin C: Citrus fruits, berries, bell peppers, broccoli

Probiotics for Skin and Gut Health

Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that support overall health, including skin health. How do probiotics help with tinea versicolor. By promoting a healthy balance of microorganisms in the gut and on the skin, probiotics may help prevent the overgrowth of Malassezia yeast.

To incorporate probiotics into your routine:

  • Consume probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut
  • Consider a high-quality probiotic supplement
  • Use probiotic-infused skincare products

Medical Treatments for Tinea Versicolor

While home remedies can be effective for many people, some cases of tinea versicolor may require medical intervention. Let’s explore some of the common medical treatments for this condition.

Topical Antifungal Medications

Topical antifungal medications are often the first line of treatment prescribed by healthcare professionals. How do topical antifungals work against tinea versicolor. These medications contain active ingredients that directly target and eliminate the Malassezia yeast on the skin.

Common topical antifungal treatments include:

  • Ketoconazole cream or shampoo
  • Selenium sulfide shampoo
  • Ciclopirox cream
  • Terbinafine cream

Oral Antifungal Medications

In more severe or persistent cases of tinea versicolor, oral antifungal medications may be prescribed. How do oral antifungals help with tinea versicolor. These medications work systemically to eliminate the fungus throughout the body, providing a more comprehensive treatment approach.

Common oral antifungal medications include:

  • Fluconazole
  • Itraconazole

It’s important to note that oral antifungal medications should only be taken under the guidance of a healthcare professional, as they may have potential side effects and interactions with other medications.

Preventing Recurrence of Tinea Versicolor

While treating tinea versicolor is important, preventing its recurrence is equally crucial. Let’s explore some strategies to help keep this fungal infection at bay.

Lifestyle Modifications

Making certain lifestyle changes can significantly reduce the risk of tinea versicolor recurrence. How can lifestyle changes help prevent tinea versicolor. By creating an environment less favorable for fungal growth and maintaining overall skin health, you can minimize the chances of the condition returning.

Consider the following lifestyle modifications:

  • Wear breathable, loose-fitting clothing in hot and humid weather
  • Avoid excessive sun exposure and always use sunscreen
  • Shower promptly after sweating
  • Use non-comedogenic skincare products
  • Manage stress through relaxation techniques or exercise

Maintenance Therapy

For individuals prone to recurring tinea versicolor, maintenance therapy may be recommended. How does maintenance therapy help prevent tinea versicolor recurrence. By using antifungal treatments periodically, even when symptoms are not present, you can help keep the Malassezia yeast population under control.

Maintenance therapy options may include:

  • Using antifungal shampoo once or twice a month
  • Applying topical antifungal creams to prone areas weekly
  • Taking oral antifungal medication as prescribed by a healthcare professional

Remember, the most effective prevention strategy may vary from person to person. Consult with a dermatologist to develop a personalized plan that works best for your skin and lifestyle.

How To Get Rid Of Tinea Versicolor

Do you have discolored spots on the skin in various areas? If your response is yes, you have most likely got tinea versicolor, a skin infection. This article talks about how to get rid of tinea versicolor. Keep reading to know more.

In This Article

What Is Tinea Versicolor?

There is a fungus called Malassezia that lives on the surface of your skin. Although it usually doesn’t cause any health problems, this fungus can sometimes grow out of control and cause changes in the natural color of your skin. As a result, you may develop patches that are lighter or darker than the surrounding skin.

This condition is referred to as tinea versicolor. Another term used for this condition is pityriasis versicolor.

According to a study published in the Skin Health and Disease journal, the prevalence of tinea versicolor in the US is 0.67%. This prevalence rate was based on the electronic health record data of 251,597 participants, 1698 of which had tinea versicolor. Compared to the white population, Black and Hispanic participants were at a higher risk of the condition. Physically disabled participants were also found to have significantly higher odds of developing tinea versicolor than their able-bodied counterparts.

One of the main signs of the onset of this condition is a discolored patch or patches that surface on your skin. These patches occur in various forms. The following section lists the symptoms of tinea versicolor.

The most prominent symptom of tinea versicolor are discolored skin patches that can occur on your arms, chest, neck, or even back.

These patches might be:

  • Discolored as compared to the surrounding skin
  • Red, brown, pink or slightly tanned
  • Itchy, scaly, and dry
  • More evident with tanning
  • Disappear in cooler and less humid weather

The exact cause of this uncontrolled growth of Malassezia fungus is not yet established. However, some factors are known to promote the growth of this fungus and increase the risk of infection.

Causes And Risk Factors For Tinea Versicolor

Factors that can promote the growth of Malassezia fungus are:

  • Hot and/or humid climate
  • Sweating a lot
  • Oily skin
  • Weak immunity
  • Hormonal changes

Some factors can increase your risk of developing this skin condition. They include:

  • A family history of tinea versicolor
  • Living in a subtropical climate
  • Taking medications that may weaken your immune system
  • Cancer
  • Taking medications that may disrupt your hormonal balance

One of the easiest ways to find out if you have developed tinea versicolor is to observe yourself physically and look for discolored patches. Your doctor may also conduct the following tests to check for the onset of tinea versicolor.

‎How Is Tinea Versicolor Diagnosed?

Tinea versicolor can usually be diagnosed by looking at your skin. However, if such a diagnosis is not possible, your doctor may ask to take the following tests:

  • A skin scraping test that involves scraping the affected skin and observing it under a microscope for the fungus.
  • Potassium hydroxide (KOH) microscopy, which involves observing scraped skin with a KOH solution under a microscope.
  • Biopsy, which requires the outer layer of your skin to be tested.
  • Wood’s lamp test, which involves the use of a special machine called Wood’s lamp that uses ultraviolet rays to check for the presence of fungus on your skin.

If the presence of the fungus is confirmed, you can begin with the treatment almost immediately. The tinea versicolor treatment can also be initiated right at home with the help of some basic home remedies that are listed below.

How To Get Rid Of Tinea Versicolor Naturally

    1. Essential Oils
    2. Baking Soda
    3. Garlic
    4. Vitamins
    5. Yogurt
    6. Coconut Oil
    7. Apple Cider Vinegar
    8. Aloe Vera
    9. Castor Oil
    10. Epsom Salt
    11. Grapefruit Seed Extract
    12. Neem
    13. Turmeric
    14. Candle Bush
    15. Honey

Home Remedies To Treat Tinea Versicolor

1.

Essential Oils

a. Tea Tree Oil
You Will Need
  • 7 drops of tea tree oil
  • 1 teaspoon of coconut oil
What You Have To Do
  1. Mix seven drops of tea tree oil with a teaspoon of coconut oil.
  2. Apply the mixture to the affected areas.
  3. Leave it on for 30 to 60 minutes before washing it off.
How Often You Should Do This

You must do this 2 to 3 times daily.

Why This Works

Tinea versicolor might result in itchy and discolored skin. The anti-inflammatory properties of tea tree oil can help in relieving the itching, while its antifungal activities eliminate the fungus causing this condition (1).

b. Eucalyptus Oil

Image: Shutterstock

You Will Need
  • 6-7 drops of eucalyptus oil
  • 1 teaspoon of any carrier oil (coconut oil, jojoba oil, etc.)
What You Have To Do
  1. Take six to seven drops of eucalyptus oil and add a teaspoon of any carrier oil to it.
  2. Massage this mixture into the affected areas and leave it on for 30 to 40 minutes.
  3. Wash it off and pat your skin dry.
How Often You Should Do This

Do this multiple times daily.

Why This Works

Eucalyptus oil contains a compound called eugenol, which is popular for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial actions. It helps relieve the symptoms of tinea versicolor and can also be used to fight the Malassezia fungus (2).

c. Patchouli Oil
You Will Need
  • 8 drops of patchouli oil
  • 1 teaspoon of coconut oil
What You Have To Do
  1. Mix eight drops of patchouli oil with a teaspoon of coconut oil or any other carrier oil.
  2. Massage this mixture gently into the affected skin.
  3. Leave it on for 20 to 40 minutes and wash it off.
  4. You can also leave this on overnight.
How Often You Should Do This

You must do this thrice daily.

Why This Works

Patchouli oil helps soothe inflamed and itchy skin. It is also a great remedy to fight fungal infections, thanks to its antifungal properties – which also help treat tinea versicolor (3), (4).

Related: Top 7 Benefits Of Patchouli Essential Oil For Skin, Hair, And Health

2. Baking Soda

You Will Need
  • 1-2 teaspoons of baking soda
  • Water (as required)
What You Have To Do
  1. Take two teaspoons of baking soda and add a few drops of water to it.
  2. Apply the paste to the affected areas and leave it on for 20 to 30 minutes.
  3. Wash the mixture off with water.
  4. You can also mix a teaspoon of baking soda with a glass of water and consume it.
How Often You Should Do This

You must do this on a daily basis.

Why This Works

Fungi cannot survive in an alkaline environment. The pH of your skin is usually acidic. Baking soda makes it alkaline and soothes itching (5).

3. Garlic

Image: Shutterstock

You Will Need

Minced garlic

What You Have To Do
  1. Mince some garlic and extract the juice.
  2. Apply the garlic extract to the affected area and leave it on for 20 to 30 minutes.
  3. Wash it off with water.
  4. You can also consume two cloves of garlic daily on an empty stomach.
How Often You Should Do This

Do this twice daily.

Why This Works

Garlic is a rich source of a compound called allicin. This organosulfur compound is known for its powerful anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activities that can be used to treat tinea versicolor and its symptoms (6).

Related: 31 Benefits Of Garlic For Health, Skin, & Hair + How To Use It

4. Vitamins

Vitamins A, D, and E can help treat tinea versicolor. They regulate your melanin production and promote faster recovery (7), (8). These vitamins are also great antioxidants and exhibit healing properties.

These vitamins are available in spinach, turnips, kale, eggs, milk, fish, and broccoli. You can also take supplements to combat vitamin deficiency after consulting a doctor.

Did You Know?

Foods rich in -Vitamin A: Milk, yogurt, cheese, oily fish, fortified low-fat spreads, liver, carrots, sweet potatoes, mango, red peppers, apricots, and papaya.

Vitamin D: Oily fish, red meat, liver, fortified foods and juices, and egg yolks.

Vitamin E: Nuts, seeds, wheat germ, and plant or vegetable oils.

5. Yogurt

You Will Need

Plain yogurt (as required)

What You Have To Do
  1. Take some plain yogurt and apply it directly to the affected skin.
  2. Leave it on for 30 minutes, after which you can wash it off with water.
How Often You Should Do This

You must do this 2 to 3 times daily.

Why This Works

Yogurt is rich in probiotics, which display antifungal activities. They can be used to treat the Malassezia fungus that causes tinea versicolor (9).

6. Coconut Oil

You Will Need

Coconut oil (as required)

What You Have To Do
  1. Apply coconut oil to the affected areas.
  2. Leave it on for 30 minutes or overnight before washing it off.
How Often You Should Do This

You must do this 2 to 3 times daily.

Why This Works

The anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antifungal activities of coconut oil can aid the treatment of tinea versicolor. The presence of monolaurin makes coconut oil a wonderful remedy (10), (11).

7. Apple Cider Vinegar

Image: Shutterstock

You Will Need
  • 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
  • 1 cup of water
  • Cotton pads
What You Have To Do
  1. Add a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to the water.
  2. Dip a cotton pad into the solution and apply it to the affected areas.
  3. You can also drink this solution once a day.
How Often You Should Do This

Do this 2 to 3 times daily for effective results.

Why This Works

The acetic acid in apple cider vinegar exhibits remarkable anti-inflammatory properties, which (along with the antifungal properties) help relieve the inflammation and infection associated with tinea versicolor (12).

8. Aloe Vera

You Will Need

1 tablespoon of aloe vera gel

What You Have To Do
  1. Take a tablespoon of aloe vera gel and gently spread it all over the affected area.
  2. Leave it on for about 30 minutes and then wash it off.
How Often You Should Do This

You must do this multiple times daily until you notice a difference.

Why This Works

Aloe vera’s healing nature can speed up your recovery. It also has powerful anti-inflammatory properties and acts as an antifungal medication that can help you get rid of tinea versicolor (13), (14).

9. Castor Oil

You Will Need

Castor oil (as required)

What You Have To Do
  1. Take a little castor oil in your hands and apply it all over the discolored skin.
  2. Leave it on for 20 to 30 minutes and wash it off with plain water.
  3. You can also keep the oil on overnight.
How Often You Should Do This

Apply castor oil multiple times on the affected area daily.

Why This Works

The ricinoleic acid (ricinoleate) in castor oil exhibits anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activities that help treat tinea versicolor (15), (16).

10. Epsom Salt

You Will Need
  • 1 cup of Epsom salt
  • Water
What You Have To Do
  1. Add a cup of Epsom salt to a tub filled with water.
  2. Soak in it for 20 to 30 minutes.
  3. Pat your skin dry.
How Often You Should Do This

Do this once daily.

Why This Works

Epsom salt contains magnesium, which helps reduce inflammation. The topical application of Epsom salt helps in treating the inflammatory symptoms of tinea versicolor (17).

You Will Need
  • A few teaspoons of grapefruit seed extract
  • Cotton pads
What You Have To Do
  1. Dip a cotton pad in a few teaspoons of grapefruit seed extract.
  2. Apply it to the affected skin.
  3. Leave it on for 30 minutes and wash it off with plain water.
How Often You Should Do This

You must do this 2 to 3 times daily.

Why This Works

Grapefruit seed extract is a powerful anti-inflammatory and antifungal remedy that can be used to combat the fungus that causes tinea versicolor (18).

12. Neem

Image: Shutterstock

You Will Need
  • A handful of neem leaves
  • Water
What You Have To Do
  1. Take a handful of neem leaves.
  2. Add water to them and blend.
  3. Apply the neem paste to the affected areas.
  4. Leave it on for about 30 minutes and rinse it off.
How Often You Should Do This

You must do this 3 to 4 times daily.

Why This Works

Neem is a popular herbal medicine. It helps reduce inflammation in your skin and fights fungal infections with its anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties (19), (20). The topical application of this herb can work wonders in treating tinea versicolor.

Related: Benefits Of Neem Oil For Skin, How To Use It, And Risk Factors

13.

Turmeric

You Will Need
  • 2 teaspoons of turmeric powder
  • Water (as required)
What You Have To Do
  1. Take two teaspoons of turmeric powder and add a little water to make a thick paste (not runny).
  2. Apply the paste all over the discolored skin.
  3. Leave it on for about 20 to 30 minutes.
  4. Wash it off with water.
How Often You Should Do This

Do this thrice daily.

Why This Works

The main constituent of turmeric is curcumin, which has antifungal as well as anti-inflammatory properties that amazingly work well against tinea versicolor (21), (22). Using turmeric regularly can be one of the best hygiene practices, it helps prevent bacterial infection and reduce skin issues.

14. Candle Bush

You Will Need
  • Candle bush leaves
  • Olive oil (as required)
What You Have To Do
  1. Take a handful of candle bush leaves.
  2. Pour a little olive oil – just enough to make a paste.
  3. Leave the concoction on for about 30 minutes and rinse it off.
  4. You can also apply the candle bush preparation that is readily available in the market for this purpose.
How Often You Should Do This

You must do this 2 to 3 times daily.

Why This Works

Candle bush leaves contain effective antifungal compounds. Which is why they can be effective against tinea versicolor, as per a study published in Ethnopharmacology in 1994 (23).

15. Honey

Image: Shutterstock

You Will Need

Organic honey (as required)

What You Have To Do
  1. Take some honey and apply it to the affected areas.
  2. Leave it on for at least 30 minutes and then wash it off.
How Often You Should Do This

Do this several times daily.

Why This Works

Given the healing, anti-inflammatory, and antifungal properties of honey, it is no surprise that it can effectively treat tinea versicolor and its symptoms (24).

Along with these natural remedies, it is also important to consider diet changes for treating tinea versicolor and preventing its recurrence.

Diet Tips

If you are have tinea versicolor, you must pay extra attention to your regular diet. Following are two lists –foods that you must eat more of, and foods that are best avoided when you are suffering from tinea versicolor. Take a look.

What To Eat
  • Probiotic-rich yogurt
  • Low-carb foods like broccoli, green beans, avocados, etc.
  • Protein-rich foods like fish, meat, eggs, and poultry
  • Garlic
What Not To Eat
  • Sugar
  • Alcohol
  • Vinegar
  • Nuts
  • Fruits

You must also make a few lifestyle changes to assist your recovery. This can be done by simply following these prevention tips.

Prevention Tips

  • Avoid hot and humid climates.
  • Do not tan or expose yourself to the sun too much.
  • Try and sweat minimally.
  • Do not indulge in intense exercises.
  • Take a bath twice a day.
  • Don’t let sweat dry up on your skin. Wipe it with a handkerchief.

Quick Tip

Please visit your doctor if you notice hormonal imbalance symptoms like frequent acne breakouts, heavy or irregular periods, hot flashes, and hair loss. Taking the right treatment course corrects hormonal changes and helps prevent tinea versicolor.

Even if you follow the prevention tips, the chances of recurrence of this condition are high. Hence, you must be at your attentive best and avoid all triggers.

Learn how to treat tinea versicolor effectively. Check out the following video to understand the causes and symptoms of this condition and learn from an expert on how to treat it.

Hot climate, humid conditions, excessive sweating, hormonal changes, etc., are some of the factors that promote the growth of Malassezia, a fungus that causes tinea versicolor. These discolored patches on the skin dent your confidence and affect the appearance of your skin. Fortunately, you can get rid of tinea versicolor not just by medical treatment but also home remedies listed above. These remedies, including essential oils, garlic, coconut oil, apple cider vinegar, aloe vera, turmeric, etc., reduce inflammation and act against fungal growth. You should also tweak your diet by including low-carb, probiotic-rich, protein-rich foods, and garlic for healthy skin.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you get rid of tinea versicolor overnight?

Dr. Emmanuel (Michael) R. Loucas, MD, Board-Certified Dermatologist, says, “There is no way to clear it so quickly. The reason the rash presents as white spots is because of the yeast that clocks your pigment cells from making pigment when in the sun. So, we first have to treat the yeast and then have people get some sun on the areas to stimulate their pigment cells. This process can take several weeks.”

Should I moisturize tinea versicolor?

Dr. Loucas says, “Moisturizing the areas can’t hurt and will help to decrease the flaking often seen. It will treat the actual condition, but can improve its appearance.”

Is tinea versicolor the same as vitiligo?

No. Vitiligo is a result of dysfunctionality of the cells that produce melanin, while tinea versicolor is a skin condition caused by a yeast fungus called Malassezia.

How long does tinea versicolor last?

In about two weeks, the physical symptoms like scaly and dry skin will be resolved. However, it may take about 6 to 12 months for your normal skin color to be restored.

Which is the best soap for tinea versicolor?

Antifungal soaps (like Naturasil Tinea Versicolor) are often recommended as one of the treatment options of tinea versicolor. Zinc pyrithione is another soap used for treating tinea versicolor.

Which antifungal cream is best for tinea versicolor?

Topical creams containing antifungal ingredients like clotrimazole, miconazole, selenium sulfide, and terbinafine are recommended for the treatment of tinea versicolor. You can also use any of the above remedies if you are looking for natural alternatives.

Does tinea versicolor itch?

Although the discolored skin patches are not contagious or painful, they may become scaly and itchy.

Which area of your body is most affected by tinea versicolor?

Tinea versicolor can affect any part of your body, but it is most likely to affect your neck, chest, back, and arms.

Can hot showers cause tinea versicolor?

Yes. While regular washing or showering helps remove fungi and dead skin cells, hot showers favor fungal growth.

How do you know if tinea versicolor is healing?

If you observe the discoloration of your skin fade away, it means tinea versicolor is healing.

Is Vaseline good for tinea versicolor?

Anecdotal evidence suggests that Vaseline is good for tinea versicolor. However, limited research is available in this regard.

Is tinea versicolor an autoimmune disease?

No. Tinea versicolor is not an autoimmune disease.

Key Takeaways

  • Tinea versicolor, a fungal skin infection, forms discolored patches on the skin surface.
  • The causes of this infection include a hot or humid climate, profuse sweating, oily skin, hormonal changes, and weak immunity.
  • The diagnosis is done by looking at the skin or through a skin scraping test, potassium hydroxide microscopy, biopsy, and Wood’s lamp test.
  • Tinea versicolor can be treated naturally at home through essential oils, baking soda, neem, turmeric, and garlic.
  • Consume food rich in probiotics and protein and low in carbs.