Dr Lalitha Badul

Tinea Versicolor is a fungal infection that is caused by a type of yeast on the surface of the skin. The yeast is naturally found in the skin but can cause infection when it grows out of control.

Symptoms include patches on the skin appearing as red, brown, pink or white in any area of the body. Tinea Versicolor can affect all skin types and anyone of any race, age or gender.

In people with darker skin, the symptoms usually appear as patches of lighter skin also known as hypopigmentation. A hot humid climate, excessive sweating or a weak immune system are often causes of Tinea Versicolor.

The condition disappears if the root causes are removed or if there is a move towards a cooler environment. Treatment involves medication or creams, shampoos or lotions that are applied to the skin.