Seeking Guidance on Tinea Versicolor
For those who may not know, tinea versicolor, also known as pityriasis versicolor, manifests as dark, flaky patches predominantly found on areas like the neck, shoulders, chest, and underarms. Personally, I have experienced this condition in all these locations. This fungal infection can be triggered by factors such as excessive sweating or high humidity levels. I have been struggling with tinea for over a year now, having noticed it first around December 2024. Initially, it started as a slight dryness, but as the months progressed, it darkened and began to spread across my skin. After consulting with a doctor, I was prescribed itraconazole, an antifungal medication, in late June 2025. Unfortunately, I have not observed any significant improvement since then. I returned to my doctor several times for follow-ups. During my first visit, he mentioned that it could take weeks, or even months, for any visible results. When I came back a few months later, around November 2025, still seeing no change, I was given a moisturizer along with a moisturizing body wash aimed at alleviating the dryness. While these did provide some relief from the dryness, they did not address the discoloration. I haven't encountered anyone online or in forums facing a situation similar to mine. This brings me to my questions: - If the tinea has cleared up, how long does it take for the dryness and discoloration to fully resolve? Alternatively, if it hasn’t cleared, what other treatments should I consider? I should mention that I’ve previously tried various antifungal products and anti-dandruff shampoos. - Additionally, if it isn’t tinea versicolor, what else could it possibly be? I’ve researched conditions like hyperpigmentation, psoriasis, eczema, and acanthosis nigricans, but none of these seem to fit my case. I would greatly appreciate any insights or assistance. Please feel free to ask me any further questions, if necessary. Thank you! (Just for context, I’m a 16-year-old male, weighing around 50 kg and standing about 5’7")
Answers (1)
2/15/2026, 12:01:03 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're dealing with a frustrating and persistent skin condition. Tinea versicolor can be challenging, especially when it seems unresponsive to treatment. Let’s break down your concerns and provide some actionable steps.
Main Points:
- Duration of Dryness and Discoloration: Even if the infection resolves, it may take time for the skin's color and texture to normalize.
- Potential Next Treatment Options: If the current treatment hasn’t worked, exploring other options may be necessary.
- Possible Alternative Conditions: There are other skin issues that might resemble tinea versicolor, and continued evaluation is important.
Explanation:
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Post-Infection Recovery: After a successful treatment of tinea versicolor, it's common for skin discoloration to linger for several weeks to months as the skin heals and regenerates. Similarly, dryness can persist even after the fungal cause is treated, as the skin may need time to restore moisture and balance.
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Treatment Options: Since itraconazole hasn’t shown improvements for you, alternatives may include topical antifungals (like clotrimazole or ketoconazole) or other oral options (like fluconazole). Sometimes, combination therapy may be more effective.
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Alternative Conditions: While the patches you describe suggest tinea versicolor, conditions like hyperpigmentation or even dermatoses from other causes could also be responsible if treatments aren’t working. It’s positive that you’re aware of similar conditions, but it may be valuable to seek further evaluation from a dermatologist who can perform a thorough examination and possibly skin scraping or biopsy if needed.
Next Steps:
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Revisit Your Healthcare Provider: Make an appointment specifically to discuss the lack of improvement. Ask if a switch to another antifungal or a different class of medication could be a suitable option.
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Consider a Dermatologist: Seeking a specialist may provide more tailored treatment options and a clearer diagnosis if your primary treatment continues to be ineffective.
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Skincare Routine:
- Continue with the moisturizer, as keeping the skin hydrated is essential.
- Use gentle, non-irritating soaps and avoid harsh scrubs that can further irritate your skin.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in your skin—like new patches or changes in texture or sensitivity—and communicate these to your healthcare provider.
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Be Patient: Skin healing can take time, and while it’s frustrating, timelines can vary between individuals.
Feel free to reach out if you have more questions or need further clarification! Take care of yourself, and I hope you find relief soon.
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