A new study sheds light on a popularly-held belief
There’s still time this season to hit the beach for some fun in the sun! Should you be worried though? Pityriasis versicolor, often referred to as "beach fungus," is a common skin condition caused by an overgrowth of yeast that naturally lives on the skin. This gallery will explore what causes pityriasis versicolor, its relation to the beach, its symptoms, and the most effective treatments for managing and preventing it.
Curious about how to avoid this “beach fungus”? Click through now.
Pityriasis Versicolor is a common fungal infection that is also sometimes referred to as Tinea Versicolor. The fungus interferes with normal skin color and produces small, discolored patches.
In reality, the fungus doesn't have to do with the beach specifically. However, the fungus becomes more obvious usually in the summer months because the patches don't tan.
The causative organism is yeast from the genus Malassezia, which is an aspect of normal skin flora. The most commonly affected areas are the upper back, neck, and arms.
Malassezi yeast naturally occurs in over 90% of adult bodies without causing an issue. However, if the yeast starts multiplying, then Pityriasis Versicolor can develop.
Several environmental factors can affect Pityriasis Versicolor. For example, being in warmer, moister environments helps the yeast grow. Additionally, excessive sweating creates a moist environment that encourages fungal overgrowth.
Genetics may contribute to immune deficiencies which can make it harder to fight off a fungal infection. Also, being a teenager or in your early 20s makes you more susceptible.
Younger adults are more likely to deal with Pityriasis Versicolor and men are slightly more likely than women to get it. Children can also attract it.
On brown or black skin, the Pityriasis Versicolor patches are often paler than the skin surrounding it. Patches are flat and round. They can also join together and form large areas.
Pityriasis Versicolor patches may look scaly and can sometimes be itchy. If the fungus is left untreated, it can get worse. It's advised not to scratch as it could cause scarring.
Patches may appear to be copper-brown, paler than surrounding skin, or pink. The color can vary somewhat depending on your skin tone.
Pityriasis Versicolor is diagnosed with a combination of a clinical exam and certain tests to confirm the presence of the fungus. A Wood's Lamp exam that uses a special ultraviolet light can be used to examine the skin.
No, Pityriasis Versicolor doesn't usually cause permanent skin damage. Be aware, though, that it may take a few months for the affected skin to return to its normal color.
Pityriasis Versicolor can have a psychological impact. For example, someone might be ashamed of how the fungus looks and what others might think of them because of it. This could result in anxiety or stress.
If you have a mild case of Pityriasis Versicolor then it will likely respond well to an over-the-counter cream or lotion such as Clotrimazole or Miconazole. Be sure to consult a doctor first.
For more severe cases, a doctor may prescribe creams or washes to help. Examples might include, Ketoconazole or Ciclopirox. Be sure to consult a doctor before using or taking anything.
Most at-home remedies haven't been studied enough for doctors to feel comfortable recommending them.
People often have more than one episode of Pityriasis Versicolor. Because the yeast grows on your skin already, the Pityriasis Versicolor can come back.
To maintain healthy skin after treatment, consider implementing the following tips. First, if prescribed by your doctor, continue the topical antifungal treatment to prevent a relapse. Second, maintain good hygiene, avoid moisture, and stay hydrated.
Pityriasis Versicolor is not contagious. It isn't passed through touching or other means of human-to-human contact.
Both Pityriasis Versicolor and Dandruff can be caused by an overgrowth of the yeast-like fungus known as Malassezia. They are very different otherwise.
Vitiligo is a skin condition that causes light spots on your skin. Though initially Pityriasis Versicolor and Vitiligo may appear similar, they are very different. Vitiligo is an autoimmune condition while a fungal infection is the cause of Pityriasis Versicolor.
One common myth is that Pityriasis Versicolor is painful. Though it can become mildly itchy, it usually isn't uncomfortable.
Pityriasis Versicolor can't necessarily be cured. However, there are short-term and long-term options to manage it and help prevent it.
Though one study showed that there was a peak in August and September, there is ultimately not enough evidence to say it is a seasonal pattern.
This fungal infection is more common in tropical countries with hot, humid weather where the yeast can thrive.
Pityriasis Versicolor is more common in pregnant women. This is due to hormonal changes and a weakened immune system.
Sources: (NHS) (Cedars-Sinai) (National Library of Medicine) (Cleveland Clinic) (Nemours Kids Health)
Pityriasis versicolor: what is this “beach fungus”?
Should you be worried?
HEALTH Skin
There’s still time this season to hit the beach for some fun in the sun! Should you be worried though? Pityriasis versicolor, often referred to as "beach fungus," is a common skin condition caused by an overgrowth of yeast that naturally lives on the skin. This gallery will explore what causes pityriasis versicolor, its relation to the beach, its symptoms, and the most effective treatments for managing and preventing it.
Curious about how to avoid this “beach fungus”? Click through now.