Quick read
Key points
- 1
Pityriasis versicolor is a common fungal skin condition caused by an overgrowth of yeast that naturally lives on the skin. It causes patches of skin that are lighter or darker than the surrounding area, most often on the chest, back, and shoulders.
- 2
Topic-specific prevention and risk reduction will be added during the article-specific evidence audit.
- 3
The patches are widespread or causing distress
01 · Know
What is Pityriasis versicolor?
Pityriasis versicolor is a common fungal skin condition caused by an overgrowth of yeast that naturally lives on the skin. It causes patches of skin that are lighter or darker than the surrounding area, most often on the chest, back, and shoulders.
It's more noticeable in warm, humid weather or after sun exposure, since affected patches don't tan in the same way as unaffected skin. It's not contagious and is generally harmless, though it can affect confidence due to its visible appearance.
02 · Understand
Clinical context
Self-care advice
See your GP or pharmacist if over-the-counter antifungal treatments don't clear the patches within a few weeks.
03 · Act
When to see a doctor
- 1The patches are widespread or causing distress
- 2Over-the-counter antifungal treatments haven't improved the patches after a few weeks
- 3The patches keep recurring despite treatment
- 4You're unsure whether the skin changes are pityriasis versicolor or another condition
- 5You have a weakened immune system and develop this type of rash
04 · Prevent & manage
Practical steps
Take these self-care steps
These measures can help ease symptoms, support recovery, and reduce the chance of things worsening — but they don't replace medical advice if symptoms are severe or persistent.
- 1Use an antifungal shampoo or wash.Products containing ketoconazole or selenium sulfide, applied as directed, are commonly used to treat the affected areas.
- 2Be patient with skin tone recovery.Even after the fungus is treated, it can take several months for skin colour to fully even out.
- 3Keep skin clean and dry.Avoiding excess sweating and moisture can help prevent the yeast overgrowth recurring.
- 4Avoid oily skin products.Oil-based lotions and sunscreens can encourage yeast overgrowth in some people.
- 5Consider maintenance treatment if it recurs often.Some people benefit from using antifungal wash periodically to prevent the condition returning.
Evidence
References
BarnMD Health Intelligence uses authoritative and clinically relevant sources appropriate to the topic. References are shown so readers can inspect the evidence directly.
- HSE: Pityriasis versicolor ↗
Medical information notice
Health education, not individual medical advice
BarnMD Health Library provides general health education for public health literacy. Reading this article does not establish a doctor-patient relationship and this information is not a diagnosis, prescription, or personalised treatment plan. If you have symptoms or concerns about your health, seek appropriate advice from a qualified healthcare professional. If you develop emergency warning signs, seek urgent or emergency medical attention.
BarnMD Bottom Line
Pityriasis versicolor responds well to antifungal treatment, though skin colour can take a while longer to fully return to normal afterwards.
Uneven skin patches often persist for weeks or months after successful treatment simply because it takes time for pigment to normalise.