How to Get Rid of Tinea Versicolor

Tinea versicolor is a common fungal skin infection that causes light or dark patches on your skin. The good news? It's easy to treat. Here's how to get rid of tinea versicolor and keep it from coming back.

Over-the-Counter Treatments

For mild cases, you can treat tinea versicolor at home with products from your local pharmacy. These antifungal options work well:

• Selenium sulfide 1% shampoo (like Selsun Blue)
• Ketoconazole shampoo or cream
• Clotrimazole cream (Lotrimin AF)
• Terbinafine cream (Lamisil)
• Zinc pyrithione soap

How to Treat Tinea Versicolor with Shampoo

Medicated shampoos are a popular choice because they're easy to apply over large areas. Apply the shampoo to affected skin, leave it on for 5-10 minutes, then rinse. Do this daily for 1-2 weeks.

Prescription Treatments

If over-the-counter options don't work after 4 weeks, see a dermatologist. They may prescribe stronger treatments:

• Prescription-strength ketoconazole 2% shampoo or cream
• Oral antifungal pills like itraconazole or fluconazole for widespread or stubborn cases

Oral antifungals work from the inside out and are typically taken for 1-2 weeks. About 75% of people see their tinea versicolor clear up with oral treatment.

What to Expect After Treatment

Treatment kills the fungus quickly, but your skin color may take weeks or months to return to normal. This is completely normal—the patches aren't a sign that treatment failed.

Preventing Tinea Versicolor from Coming Back

Tinea versicolor often returns, especially in warm, humid weather. To help prevent recurrence:

• Use medicated shampoo once or twice a month during warm months
• Avoid oily skin products—choose oil-free options
• Wear loose, breathable clothing
• Protect your skin from excess sun exposure

When to See a Doctor

See a dermatologist if your tinea versicolor doesn't improve after 4 weeks of home treatment, covers a large area of your body, or keeps coming back despite prevention efforts.