Tinea versicolor features lighter (hypopigmented), flat lesions with a very fine scale. This image displays the flat and minimally scaly, well-defined light and dark lesions typical of tinea versicolor. Tinea versicolor is a yeast infection, typically on the upper chest and back, which includes widespread areas of color change that are slightly scaly. This image displays tinea versicolor on the face. This image displays tinea versicolor affecting the face and neck. This image displays a close-up of tinea versicolor. The subtle scaling can be seen in the spot of tinea versicolor near the earlobe. This area of tinea versicolor demonstrates why the name means "a variety of colors," displaying lighter areas with faint pink at the edges of the infection meeting normal skin. This lighter-skinned child displays round, pink patches of tinea versicolor.
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Tinea Versicolor:
A parent's guide to condition and treatment information

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Picture of Tinea Versicolor: Tinea versicolor features lighter (hypopigmented), flat lesions with a very fine scale. Divider line
Tinea versicolor features lighter (hypopigmented), flat lesions with a very fine scale.
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Who's At Risk
Tinea versicolor can develop in people of all ages, of all races, and of either sex.

However, tinea versicolor is most commonly found in tropical areas with high humidity and high temperatures. In milder climates, teens and young adults are affected most frequently. Tinea versicolor is uncommon in young (pre-pubertal) children or in adults older than 65 years.

Some conditions make tinea versicolor more likely to occur, including:
  • Living in a warm, humid climate.
  • Having oily skin.
  • Sweating frequently or excessively.
  • Being pregnant.
  • Being malnourished.
  • Using corticosteroids (cortisone).
  • Taking medications that weaken the immune system.
Last Modified: 29 Jan 2008

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