Fungal Infection - Tinea Versicolor

Tinea Versicolor: What Is It?
Tinea Versicolor is a common skin yeast infection caused by the yeast Malassezia Furfur. The yeast is commonly found on the skin itself. It can cause trouble under certain conditions, such as humid weather, or a warm temperature environment.

However, this is not a serious infection and can be cured.

Tinea Versicolor: Where Does It Occur?

The Tinea Versicolor infection often occurs around the trunk area of the body. It is also prevalent in the back, underarm, upper arm, neck and lower legs of the body.

As such Tinea Versicolor is a common among fungal infections and is found typically in adolescents, and young adults. The fungus needs a warm and humid climate to thrive. It is also thought that the yeast lives on the skin oils and the dead skin cells that are present on the skin of the human body.

Sometimes, pregnancy, oral contraceptives, malnutrition and steroid therapy may also cause this infection.

Tinea Versicilor – Skin Yeast Infection Symptoms

The symptoms of Tinea Versicolor include:

• Irregularly shaped or oval shaped spots on the skin.
• Fine scaling of skin with an ash-like fine scale.
• Pale, Dark Tan, Pink Spots with a Reddish Undertone which darken in a humid or warm environment.
• These rashes do not appear on the face.

Fungal Infections - Tinea Versicolor: Treatment

The treatment of this fungal infection depends on several factors such as age, health, medical history, tolerance to specific medications and procedures and so on.

Normally the treatment consists of the application of an anti-dandruff shampoo which contains selenium sulfide. The shampoo is applied to the area covered with the spots and left on overnight. It is then washed off in the morning.

Other anti-fungal treatments such as clotrimazole or miconazole may also be recommended.

Additionally, maintenance of personal hygiene is a must. The patient must bathe daily in order to remove the dead skin cells from the surface of the skin. Use of baby powder to keep the skin dry is also recommended.

A balanced and healthy diet also goes a long way in preventing the recurrence of the disease. Raw fruits and vegetables and yoghurt have been known to keep this fungal infection away. Garlic has also been known to have some curative properties.