Home Remedies for Tinea Versicolor

Tinea Versicolor, also known as pityriasis versicolor is a skin infection caused by fungus. It is found mostly in young people. Any person infected with this will have discolored patches on his skin. These patches can be light or reddish-brown in colour. It is neither a permanent nor a serious infection. Tinea versicolor mainly affects skin on the chest and back. It affects only the top layer of the skin. It is a non-contagious disease.

Common symptom for Tinea Versicolor

The most common symptoms of tinea versicolor are light brown or white patches on the skin. These patches are most noticeable during summer season. Rashes on the trunk are one of the symptoms. Generally rashes of tinea versicolor do not appear on the face. Itch on the patches, which become more intense with sweat or overheating.

Malassezia furfur

Tinea versicolor is caused by a yeast called Malassezia furfur. It is a type of fungus. This yeast likes fat; therefore tinea versicolor is common among people with more sebaceous glands. This fungus is present almost everywhere in environment. It is also present on human skin. But during summer season or high temperature it grows rapidly. Due to this rapid growth the natural balance of the fungus is disturbed, causing patches on the skin.

Other Causes for Tinea Versicolor

Some factors like pregnancy, burns, oral contraceptives, malnutrition and steroid therapy may contribute to tinea versicolor.

Treatment for Tinea Versicolor

Treatment for tinea versicolor depends upon the overall health, age and medical history of the infected person. Since tinea versicolor is caused by fungus, you can apply OTC antifungal creams twice daily. Apply antidandruff shampoo that contains selenium sulfide on the patches. Take bath daily, this will remove dead cells and fungus from your skin.

Eat healthy diet

Those who have tinea versicolor should eat a balanced and a healthy diet. A healthy diet and good hygiene will help you to prevent reoccurrence of tinea versicolor.

Include raw fruits and vegetables in diet

Include raw fruits, raw vegetables and whole grains in your diet. This will strengthen your immune system by providing antioxidants.

Include lactic acid fermented food

Include lactic acid fermented food like yoghurt in your diet; it contains acidophilus which helps to maintain bacteria level and helps to prevent the spread of infection.

Other Diet

Avoid too much of white flour and sugar. Garlic is a very good antifungal agent. Try chewing one or two cloves daily.

Other suggestions for Tinea Versicolor

Treating tinea versicolor may not get back your original skin color immediately. Once treated tinea versicolor may reoccur. Use baby powder to keep yourself dry.