Estheticians' Guide to Tinea Versicolor

This ingredient appears in the ASCP SkinPro app

What is Tinea Versicolor?

A yeast fungal infection of the skin that causes white or lighter-than-normal colored patches. While tinea versicolor is actually part of the skin’s microbiome, humid weather, oily skin, and hormonal factors cause an excess number of the yeast.

What Should I Know About Tinea Versicolor?

• White or lighter-than-normal colored patches.

• Found primarily on the chest, back, neck, and arms.

• Seen more frequently in teenagers and young adults with oilier skin.
   
• Found primarily on the chest, back, neck, and arms, it is seen more frequently in teenagers and young adults with oilier skin.
   
• More noticeable in skin of color or tanned skin due to the contrast in lightness of the patches. 

Immunocompromised persons are more susceptible. Tinea versicolor produces azelaic acid, thought to cause the hypopigmentation associated with the condition. This is a fairly common condition, especially in beach communities. Sometimes called “sun fungus,” it is often erroneously thought to be caused by sun exposure or having contact with beach sand. However, it is simply more prevalent in warm climates, such as a beach area, and is more apparent when the rest of the skin is tanned.

Considerations for Tinea Versicolor

• Refer to a dermatologist for treatment.
   
• Although technically a medical condition, tinea versicolor is frequently treated at home with application of over-the-counter selenium sulfide (Selsun), ketoconazole shampoo, or other antifungal topicals.
   
• Stronger antifungals and oral medication may be prescribed in cases unresponsive to topical treatment.

ASCP members can access SkinPro to continue reading about tinea versicolor

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