What are the Home Remedies for Tinea Versicolor?
February 9, 2024 | by Sravani Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Tinea versicolor, also known as pityriasis versicolor, is a fungal infection of the skin caused by the overgrowth of a yeast called Malassezia. While there are several over-the-counter antifungal medications and prescription treatments available for tinea versicolor, there are also some home remedies that may help alleviate symptoms and prevent recurrence. Here are some home remedies for tinea versicolor:
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar has antifungal properties that may help treat tinea versicolor. Mix equal parts of apple cider vinegar and water and apply the solution to the affected areas using a cotton ball or pad. Leave it on for 10-15 minutes before rinsing it off with lukewarm water. Repeat this process once or twice daily until the infection clears up.
- Tea Tree Oil: Tea tree oil has natural antifungal properties that can help combat tinea versicolor. Dilute tea tree oil with a carrier oil like coconut oil or olive oil, and apply it to the affected areas using a cotton ball or pad. Leave it on for 15-20 minutes before rinsing it off with water. Repeat this process once or twice daily.
- Aloe Vera: Aloe vera has soothing and healing properties that may help relieve itching and inflammation associated with tinea versicolor. Apply fresh aloe vera gel directly to the affected areas and leave it on until it dries. Repeat this process several times a day.
- Yogurt: Probiotic-rich yogurt contains beneficial bacteria that may help restore the balance of microorganisms on the skin and inhibit the growth of fungi like Malassezia. Apply plain, unsweetened yogurt to the affected areas and leave it on for 30 minutes before rinsing it off with lukewarm water. Repeat this process once daily.
- Garlic: Garlic has antifungal and antibacterial properties that can help combat tinea versicolor. Crush a few cloves of garlic to extract the juice, and apply it to the affected areas using a cotton ball or pad. Leave it on for 10-15 minutes before rinsing it off with water. Repeat this process once or twice daily.
- Coconut Oil: Coconut oil contains medium-chain fatty acids with antifungal properties that may help treat tinea versicolor. Apply virgin coconut oil to the affected areas and massage it into the skin. Leave it on overnight and rinse it off with lukewarm water in the morning. Repeat this process daily until the infection clears up.
- Baking Soda: Baking soda has antifungal properties and can help restore the pH balance of the skin, making it inhospitable for fungal growth. Mix baking soda with water to form a paste and apply it to the affected areas. Leave it on for 10-15 minutes before rinsing it off with water. Repeat this process once daily.
- Turmeric: Turmeric contains curcumin, which has antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties that may help treat tinea versicolor. Mix turmeric powder with water to form a paste and apply it to the affected areas. Leave it on for 30 minutes before rinsing it off with water. Repeat this process once daily.
- Vinegar Soaks: Soaking in a bath with vinegar may help restore the pH balance of the skin and inhibit the growth of Malassezia yeast. Add one cup of vinegar to a bathtub filled with lukewarm water and soak in it for 15-20 minutes. Pat the skin dry gently afterward. Repeat this process once daily.
- Sun Exposure: Sun exposure can help improve tinea versicolor by reducing the growth of Malassezia yeast. However, it’s important to avoid excessive sun exposure and wear sunscreen to protect the skin from harmful UV rays.
While these home remedies may help alleviate symptoms of tinea versicolor, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment, especially if the infection is severe or recurrent. They may recommend over-the-counter or prescription antifungal medications, topical treatments, or oral medications to effectively treat the infection. Additionally, practicing good hygiene, wearing loose-fitting clothing, and avoiding excessive sweating can help prevent recurrence of tinea versicolor.