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Lifestyle and home remedies

By Mayo Clinic staff

For a mild case of tinea versicolor, you can apply an over-the-counter antifungal lotion, cream, ointment or shampoo. Most fungal infections respond well to these topical agents, which include:

  • Selenium sulfide shampoo (Selsun Blue)
  • Miconazole (Monistat-Derm)
  • Clotrimazole (Lotrimin)
  • Terbinafine (Lamisil)

Wash and dry the affected area. Then, apply a thin layer of the topical agent once or twice a day for at least two weeks. If you're using shampoo, rinse it off after waiting five to 10 minutes. If you don't see an improvement after four weeks, see your doctor. You may need a stronger medication.

References
  1. Goldstein BG, et al. Tinea versicolor. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Dec. 29, 2009.
  2. Dhar AD. Tinea versicolor. The Merck Manuals: The Merck Manual for Healthcare Professionals. http://www.merck.com/mmpe/print/sec10/ch120/ch120e.html. Accessed Jan. 4, 2010.
  3. Berger TG. Dermatologic disorders. In: McPhee SJ, et al. Current Medical Diagnosis & Treatment 2010. 49th ed. New York, N.Y.: McGraw-Hill Medical; 2010. http://www.accessmedicine.com/content.aspx? aID=747. Accessed Dec. 28, 2009.
  4. McCall CO, et al. Eczema, psoriasis, cutaneous infections, acne, and other common skin disorders. In: Fauci AS, et al. Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine. 17th ed. New York, N.Y.: The McGraw Hill Companies; 2008. http://www.accessmedicine.com/content.aspx?aID=2864389. Accessed Dec. 28, 2009.
DS00635 Feb. 23, 2010

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