Tinea Versicolor Remedies

Home treatments for tinea versicolor can be effective in a matter of days or might take much longer. The fungus can be very stubborn. If a treatment is working, it’s important to stick with it as the infection will break out again if not completely cured.

What is Tinea (or Pityriasis) Versicolor?

Tinea versicolor is an out-of-control fungal skin infection, also known as pityriasis versicolor. It is not contagious. An acidic bleach produced by the yeast causes a rash with patches that are colored differently than the rest of the skin and do not tan. This skin infection can appear anywhere on the body, but normally appears on the chest, back, neck and arms. It appears on people who have oily skin, sweat frequently or who live in a hot, humid climate. It may be linked to a weak immune system.

Natural Remedies for Tinea Versicolor

Tinea versicolor is normally treated at home by applying an antifungal to the affected areas. Apple cider vinegar is an effective natural cure for many ailments, including tinea. Essential oils with anti-fungal properties are effective home treatments. For many years, grapefruit seed extract has been used to heal many differing infections.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is a successful home remedy for many ailments. ACV applied topically to the tinea and also taken as a tonic with baking soda dramatically decreased the rash. Olive oil or aloe vera gel can be applied to soothe the skin between ACV applications. Aloe vera has many healing properties also.

Essential Oils

Lavender oil and tea tree oil (diluted with water) are effective home remedies for tinea. These natural remedies have been used for centuries to treat infections. Lavender oil is a powerful anti-fungal that will kill the fungus.

Grapefruit Seed Extract

Grapefruit seed extract is a natural cure for fungus infections. It is applied to the rash 2-3 times a day. This natural cure also has antibacterial and antiviral properties.

Tinea versicolor can be treated effectively at home. Natural remedies with anti-fungal properties will kill the fungus causing the rash and discomfort. Tinea versicolor may disappear in cool weather only to reappear in the summer, so it is important to continue treatment until the rash is completely gone.