A harmless yeast overgrowth on the skin that causes lighter or darker patches, often on the chest, back, or shoulders—more noticeable after sun exposure.
Symptoms
- Flat patches that are lighter or sometimes darker than nearby skin.
- Mild scale if you gently scratch.
- Usually not itchy or painful.
Triggers
- Heat, humidity, oily skin, sweating, teenage years/young adults.
Treatment
- Antifungal shampoos used as body wash (ketoconazole, selenium sulfide, zinc pyrithione) daily for 1–2 weeks.
- Antifungal creams (ketoconazole, clotrimazole) for small areas.
- Recurrences are common—monthly “maintenance” washes in warm months can help.
What to expect
- Color may take weeks to months to even out after the yeast is gone—this is normal.