Tinea Versicolor

You may not know it, but your body is covered in yeast. Most of the time the amount of yeast that is on your body is unnoticeable, but that can change. The yeast can start to grow uncontrollably, which leads to discoloration of the skin and a condition known as tinea versicolor.

Proper diagnosis of tinea versicolor is essentially to treating this skin disorder. Dr. Vivian Bucay is an experienced dermatologist who can help patients seek treatment for tinea versicolor.

What are the Symptoms of Tinea Versicolor?

When the yeast on your skin starts to grow uncontrollably, it can cause a dramatic change in your skin’s appearance. Patients with this skin disorder will notice small patches of skin that are pinker or redder than the surrounding skin. They may also notice spots on their skin that are resistant to tanning.

The patches of skin may feel dry and scaly. Occasionally, the areas may itch, but itching does not occur with every case of tinea versicolor.

How is This Skin Disorder Diagnosed?

Most cases of tinea versicolor can be diagnosed with a visual inspection of the skin. Dr. Vivian Bucay will often look the skin over and closely examine any rashes that may be present. An ultraviolet light may be used to illuminate the rash and confirm a diagnosis of tinea versicolor.

In some cases, a skin scraping may need to be done. This is a quick, painless procedure that allows Dr. Vivian Bucay to take a small sample of the skin for further testing. This further testing can help give you a definite diagnosis of tinea versicolor.

How is Tinea Versicolor Treated?

There are several different types of treatment options available for patients with tinea versicolor. Medicated creams, shampoos, and lotions can be used to treat this skin disorder. Prescription pills may also be used, but are often reserved for severe cases.

The treatment option you will receive will depend upon where this skin disorder occurs, how severe it is, and how far the rash has spread. Dr. Vivian Bucay will help you explore treatment options for your tinea versicolor.