Everyone has yeast growing on the skin. If the yeast grows out of control, a person can get tinea versicolor, which is a skin disease. Tinea versicolor is not a contagious condition. This form of fungal infection is not harmful, but many people do not like the way it discolors the skin. Tinea versicolor is one of the most common skin diseases in tropical and subtropical areas of the world. If you have one or more of the following symptoms, Dr. Kraig K. Jenson, Byron Edwards and Dr. Devin Burr can provide treatment for a fungal infection in Orem, Utah:
- Spots on the skin that are white, pink, salmon, red, tan or brown
- Dry and scaly spots
- Spots growing together
- Spots that do not tan
- Spots that disappear when the temperature drops and return in the spring or summer when the air is warm and humid
There are several things our dermatologists may recommend to treat tinea versicolor. We may suggest that you apply medicine to your skin in the form of an anti-fungal shampoo, soap, cream or lotion to keep the yeast under control. Using a medicated cleanser once or twice a month can keep the fungus from returning. If the tinea versicolor covers a large area of the body, is thick or often returns after treatment, our dermatologists may recommend anti-fungal pills.
To learn more and to schedule an appointment, contact Dermatology Center today at 801-224-5200.