How is pityriasis versicolor treated?
Treatment depends on the diagnosis and the extent of the lesions. If the cause is actually pityriasis versicolor, your doctor may recommend a local antifungal treatment, such as a cream, lotion, or medicated shampoo.
Among the active ingredients that can be used, depending on the case and the indications of the doctor or pharmacist, are some antifungals such as clotrimazole or miconazole.
In more extensive, persistent, or recurring cases, your dermatologist may evaluate other treatment options. It’s therefore important not to self-medicate with antifungal medications unless the cause of the spots has been determined.
Even when the infection is treated properly, skin color may not immediately return to normal. Pigmentation changes may persist for some time after the infection resolves, especially after sun exposure.
How to prevent relapses
In some people, pityriasis versicolor tends to recur, especially during hot and humid weather. If the problem is recurrent, your dermatologist may suggest preventative strategies, which may include cleansing products or specific antifungal treatments.
It is also important to keep the skin clean and dry and pay attention to prolonged sweating, without however resorting to aggressive products that could irritate the skin.
Before treating a sunburn, there is a fundamental step: distinguishing a possible mycosis from other dermatological conditions that may have a similar appearance.
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