Have you ever come back from a sunny holiday, looked in the mirror, and spotted pale, oddly shaped patches on your skin that weren’t there before? For many people, these lighter or white areas show up most clearly after time in the sun. They often appear on the back, chest, neck, or shoulders and can make the skin look uneven. While they may not hurt or itch much, they can be frustrating to deal with especially if you feel they draw attention or make your tan look patchy.
This skin concern is more common than you might think, and in many cases, it turns out to be pityriasis versicolor (sometimes also called tinea versicolor). Despite its scientific name, the condition itself is fairly simple: it happens when a natural yeast that lives on your skin grows a little too much. Normally, this yeast is harmless and invisible. But when it multiplies, it disrupts your skin’s normal pigmentation, creating areas that appear lighter or sometimes darker than the surrounding skin.
The patches often stand out more after sun exposure because the affected areas don’t tan in the same way as the rest of your skin. Instead of blending into your summer glow, they remain pale, making them far more noticeable during warmer months. This is one reason why people often first notice pityriasis versicolor after returning from a beach trip or spending long hours outdoors.
While the condition is not dangerous, it can be stubborn, persistent, and cosmetically bothersome. Some people worry that it’s contagious or a sign of something more serious, but that isn’t the case. Others may try to scrub the patches away, only to find that they linger for weeks or even months without proper treatment.
The good news is that dermatologists can diagnose pityriasis versicolor quickly and recommend treatments that are usually very effective. With the right care, most people are able to clear the patches and keep the condition under control.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know: what exactly causes pityriasis versicolor, the common symptoms to watch for, how dermatologists confirm a diagnosis, and the treatment options from medicated shampoos to antifungal creams and tablets that actually make a difference. We’ll also look at some practical steps you can take to help prevent flare-ups in the future, so you can step into the sun with more confidence.
What is Pityriasis Versicolor?
Pityriasis versicolor, which you might also hear called tinea versicolor, is a common skin condition caused by a type of yeast that naturally lives on our skin. Normally, this yeast coexists peacefully with the rest of our skin’s microorganisms and doesn’t cause any issues. However, under certain conditions such as hot weather, high humidity, oily skin, or a weakened immune system the yeast can grow more than usual. When this happens, it disrupts the normal function of skin cells responsible for pigmentation, leading to patches of skin that look different in colour from the surrounding areas.
These patches may appear lighter, darker, or sometimes with a slightly pink or reddish tone, depending on your natural skin colour and how the yeast has affected your pigment production. On lighter skin, they are usually faint and pale, while on darker or tanned skin they often stand out more as white or lighter spots. The patches are usually small to begin with, but they can slowly merge to form larger irregular shapes over time.
One of the classic features of pityriasis versicolor is that it becomes more obvious after sun exposure. This happens because the affected areas don’t tan like healthy skin does. While the surrounding skin darkens in the sun, the patches stay the same colour or sometimes even appear more faded creating a sharp contrast that makes them easier to notice during summer months or after a holiday.
Although the condition is sometimes called a “fungal infection,” it’s important to understand that it isn’t dangerous, contagious, or a sign of poor hygiene. In fact, almost everyone has this yeast living on their skin. Pityriasis versicolor simply occurs when the yeast overgrows and temporarily alters the balance of your skin’s natural microbiome.
The condition is most commonly seen on the chest, back, shoulders, upper arms, and neck, but it can technically appear anywhere. It may cause very mild itchiness or scaling in some people, but for many, the only noticeable symptom is the uneven pigmentation. While not harmful to your overall health, it can be a source of cosmetic concern and affect confidence, especially when the patches appear in visible areas.
Why White Spots Appear After Sun
One of the most common questions people have about pityriasis versicolor is why the patches seem to appear or at least become more noticeable after spending time in the sun. The reason lies in how this yeast interferes with your skin’s natural pigmentation process.
Under normal conditions, when your skin is exposed to sunlight, it produces melanin, the pigment responsible for giving your skin its colour and protecting it from UV rays. In areas affected by pityriasis versicolor, the yeast disrupts this process. The patches are unable to tan like the surrounding skin, so while the unaffected areas darken with sun exposure, the spots remain the same pale shade. This difference creates a sharp contrast, making the patches stand out even more after time outdoors.
The patches themselves are not caused by the sun it’s the yeast overgrowth that triggers the imbalance. However, sunlight acts almost like a spotlight, highlighting the affected areas and making them much easier to see, particularly on tanned skin.
Several factors can increase your likelihood of developing pityriasis versicolor or make flare-ups more common:
- Hot and humid climates – Yeast thrives in warm, moist environments, which is why pityriasis versicolor is far more common in tropical or coastal regions and during the summer months.
- Excessive sweating – Activities that cause heavy perspiration, such as exercise, outdoor work, or simply hot weather, create the perfect environment for yeast to grow.
- Oily skin – People with naturally oilier skin may be more prone, as the yeast feeds on sebum (oil) produced by the sebaceous glands.
- Weakened immunity – Certain health conditions, prolonged stress, or medications that suppress the immune system can make it harder for the body to keep yeast growth in check.
It’s worth noting that pityriasis versicolor is not a reflection of poor hygiene. You can shower regularly and still develop it, because the yeast responsible is always present on the skin it only causes problems when the balance is disrupted.
Symptoms to Look Out For
Pityriasis versicolor has a fairly recognisable set of signs, though the exact appearance can vary depending on your natural skin tone, the extent of the yeast overgrowth, and how long the patches have been present. Many people first notice it not because of discomfort, but because of how the skin looks especially after being in the sun.
Some of the main symptoms include:
- Discoloured patches – The hallmark sign is the appearance of small, round, or oval patches that are lighter than your normal skin tone. On some people, these patches can also look pinkish, reddish, or light brown. Over time, they may join together to form larger, irregularly shaped areas.
- Noticeable contrast after sun exposure – Because affected skin doesn’t tan normally, the patches stand out more clearly against darker surrounding skin, making them highly visible during the summer or after holidays.
- Mild itching – While not everyone experiences it, some people notice slight itching or irritation, particularly in hot, humid weather or after sweating.
- Fine scaling – If you look closely or lightly scratch the surface of the patches, you may notice a thin, flaky scale. This can make the skin feel a little rougher than the surrounding area.
- Common locations – Pityriasis versicolor most often appears on the chest, back, shoulders, neck, and upper arms, but it can occasionally spread to other areas such as the face, abdomen, or thighs.
In most cases, the condition doesn’t cause any pain, and the symptoms are relatively mild. The biggest concern for many people is the cosmetic appearance, as the uneven patches can affect confidence. For others, the persistence of the condition patches that don’t seem to go away despite good hygiene can be a source of frustration.
If you’re unsure whether your skin changes are caused by pityriasis versicolor or another condition such as vitiligo, eczema, or psoriasis, it’s always best to consult a dermatologist. A quick examination is often all that’s needed to confirm the diagnosis.
How Dermatologists Diagnose It
Dermatologists are usually able to diagnose pityriasis versicolor with a simple skin examination. The discoloured patches, fine scaling, and distribution on areas like the chest, back, and shoulders are often enough for an experienced eye to recognise the condition. Unlike many other skin problems, pityriasis versicolor has a fairly distinctive look, which makes diagnosis straightforward in most cases.
However, if there is any uncertainty, a dermatologist may use additional tests to confirm the diagnosis:
- Skin scraping and microscopy – A small sample of skin flakes can be collected and examined under a microscope. This allows the doctor to check for the presence of the yeast responsible for the condition.
- Wood’s lamp examination – This test uses a special type of ultraviolet (UV) light that makes the affected areas fluoresce a yellow-green colour. It’s a quick, painless way to highlight yeast overgrowth.
- Clinical history – Dermatologists may also ask about factors like sweating, climate, or family history of similar issues to understand why flare-ups are occurring.
If you’re worried about white patches on your skin, it’s always worth consulting a dermatologist. An accurate diagnosis not only gives peace of mind but also ensures that the treatment you use is the right one for your skin. For example, conditions such as vitiligo or post-inflammatory hypopigmentation can sometimes resemble pityriasis versicolor, but they require very different approaches. If you’re based in the UK, visiting a dermatologist in London can help you get a clear answer and an effective treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Treatment Options
The good news about pityriasis versicolor is that it is very treatable. With the right approach, most people see improvement within weeks, although it’s important to know that the skin colour may take longer sometimes several months to return to normal even after the yeast has been eliminated.
Treatment generally depends on the severity and extent of the condition:
- Topical antifungal creams, lotions, or shampoos – These are usually the first line of treatment. Applied directly to the affected areas, they help kill the yeast on the skin’s surface. Options include antifungal creams, medicated washes, and shampoos containing ingredients like ketoconazole, selenium sulphide, or clotrimazole. These treatments are typically used daily or several times a week for 1–4 weeks.
- Oral antifungal medication – In more severe, widespread, or recurrent cases, a dermatologist may prescribe antifungal tablets. These work from within the body to stop the yeast from overgrowing. Oral treatments are usually taken for a short period and are reserved for situations where topical options are not enough.
- Maintenance therapy – Since pityriasis versicolor can return, many dermatologists recommend occasional “maintenance” use of antifungal washes or shampoos, especially during warm, humid months. This can greatly reduce the risk of recurrence.
Most people find that once the yeast is controlled, the flaky texture and spread of patches improve quickly. However, the pigment changes take longer to resolve because the skin needs time to restore normal melanin production. Patience is key while the condition clears, the appearance of your skin gradually evens out over weeks to months.
Preventing Recurrence
One of the challenges with pityriasis versicolor is that, even after successful treatment, the condition has a tendency to come back. This is because the yeast that causes it is a normal part of the skin’s microbiome and cannot be permanently removed. For many people, flare-ups are seasonal, becoming more noticeable in the summer months when heat, humidity, and sweat create the perfect conditions for yeast to thrive.
While you may not be able to prevent pityriasis versicolor completely, there are several steps you can take to reduce the risk of recurrence and keep your skin looking more even throughout the year:
- Keep your skin dry and cool – Since yeast thrives in moist environments, try to avoid staying in sweaty or damp clothing for long periods. Showering promptly after exercise or hot weather can help.
- Use antifungal cleansers preventively – Even when the patches are gone, dermatologists often recommend using medicated shampoos or antifungal washes once or twice a week, especially during summer or if you live in a tropical climate. This maintenance routine helps control yeast growth before it becomes a problem.
- Choose breathable fabrics – Natural fibres like cotton or linen allow your skin to breathe and reduce the amount of trapped sweat, which can limit yeast overgrowth. Loose-fitting clothing is also less likely to irritate affected skin.
- Avoid heavy or oily skincare products – Thick creams and oily lotions can create a film on the skin that encourages yeast to multiply. Opt for lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturisers instead.
- Strengthen your skin’s natural balance – While pityriasis versicolor isn’t caused by poor hygiene, maintaining a regular cleansing routine and avoiding overly harsh soaps can support a healthy skin microbiome.
- Be proactive if you’re prone to flare-ups – If you know your patches return every summer, starting preventive treatment a few weeks before hot weather sets in can make a big difference.
Taking these small but consistent steps doesn’t just help reduce recurrences it also gives you more control over your skin health, so you’re less likely to feel caught off guard by sudden white patches after sun exposure.
Final Thought: Regaining Confidence in Your Skin
White spots after sun exposure are often caused by pityriasis versicolor, a treatable fungal skin condition. Understanding the triggers, recognising the symptoms, and following dermatologist-recommended treatments can help clear the skin and reduce the risk of recurrence.
If you’re struggling with persistent white patches or are unsure about the cause, consulting a Dermatologist in London is the best way to get personalised care and effective treatment.
References:
- Łabędź, N., 2023. Pityriasis Versicolor A Narrative Review on the Diagnosis and Management of Pityriasis Versicolor. Life, 13(10), p.2097. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10608716/
- Leung, A.K.C. et al., 2022. Tinea versicolor: an updated review. [PMC]. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9677953/
- Karray, M., 2024. Tinea versicolor. In: StatPearls. [online] Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482500/
- Hu, S.W. et al., 2010. Pityriasis Versicolor: A Systematic Review of Interventions. JAMA Dermatology, 146(4), pp.421–427. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamadermatology/article-abstract/422034
- Veraldi, S. et al., 2025. Erythrasmoid pityriasis versicolor: three case reports and literature review. Dermatology Reports. Available at: https://www.pagepress.org/journals/dr/article/view/9976