Dr. Abdulaziz AlRashed — Consultant Dermatologist, Cosmetic & Laser
Tinea (Pityriasis) Versicolor Advice
A patient advice sheet — 6 practical points. Reviewed and updated by Dr. Abdulaziz AlRashed, July 2026.
Last reviewed: July 2026
The advice
- It is caused by overgrowth of a yeast normally on the skin, in heat, humidity and sweat — very common in Kuwait summers, not contagious and not a hygiene problem.
- It appears as patches lighter or darker than your skin, especially on the trunk, shoulders and neck.
- The main treatment is an antifungal shampoo used as a body wash: lather, leave 5–10 minutes, then rinse, per the prescribed schedule, plus a cream for small areas.
- Very important: after successful treatment the skin colour takes weeks to months to even out — temporarily remaining light patches do NOT mean failure.
- Summer prevention: use the antifungal shampoo once monthly, shower promptly after sweating or sport, and wear loose cotton.
- Recurrence is common and no cause for worry — a short repeat course is usually enough.
See also the full treatment page: Tinea versicolor treatment — options, evidence and expected timelines.
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