Pityriasis Versicolor – Causes, Symptoms & Homeopathic Treatment for Long-Term Relief

Published On6 September, 2025

Dr. Vaseem Choudhary M.D
Pityriasis skin patches

What is Pityriasis Versicolor?

Pityriasis Versicolor, also known as Tinea Versicolor, is a common fungal skin infection caused by a type of yeast called Malassezia. This yeast lives naturally on everyone’s skin, but sometimes it grows excessively, leading to discolored patches — lighter or darker than your normal skin tone.

It often affects areas like the chest, back, neck, upper arms, and face. Though it’s not contagious or dangerous, it can cause emotional discomfort and affect confidence, especially when patches become noticeable.

How Does Pityriasis Versicolor Look and Feel?

The main symptom of Pityriasis Versicolor is the appearance of small, scaly, discolored patches. These patches can be:

  • White, pink, tan, or brown in color
  • Slightly itchy or flaky
  • More visible in humid or hot weather
  • Often found on shoulders, back, neck, and chest

These patches may become more obvious after sun exposure because the affected areas do not tan normally.

What Causes Pityriasis Versicolor?

The main cause is the overgrowth of the Malassezia yeast, which disrupts the normal pigmentation of the skin. This overgrowth can occur due to several factors:

  • Oily or sweaty skin
  • Hot and humid climate
  • Weak immune system
  • Hormonal changes
  • Use of oily creams or lotions
  • Wearing tight, synthetic clothing

Pityriasis Versicolor is not related to poor hygiene — it’s an imbalance of skin flora, not a sign of uncleanliness.

Who Is Most Prone to Pityriasis Versicolor?

Anyone can develop it, but it’s more common in:

  • Teenagers and young adults
  • People living in warm and humid regions
  • Those who sweat excessively
  • Individuals with oily skin
  • People with weakened immune systems

In India, especially during the summer or monsoon season, the condition is often seen due to the humid environment.

How is Pityriasis Versicolor Diagnosed?

A dermatologist or homeopathic doctor usually diagnoses it based on the appearance of the patches. Sometimes, a Wood’s lamp examination (a type of UV light) or skin scraping test may be done to confirm the presence of yeast.

However, in homeopathy, the diagnosis goes deeper. It involves understanding the root cause, emotional stress, lifestyle habits, and genetic tendencies to select the most suitable remedy.

Can Pityriasis Versicolor Be Cured Permanently?

Conventional antifungal creams or shampoos can control the infection temporarily, but recurrence is common. The yeast can return when conditions become favorable again.

Homeopathy, however, focuses on strengthening the body’s natural defense and correcting the internal imbalance, leading to long-term results and minimal recurrence.

Homeopathic Treatment for Pityriasis Versicolor

Homeopathy treats Pityriasis Versicolor by addressing the root cause — not just suppressing the symptoms. The remedies stimulate your immune system to regain balance, control fungal overgrowth naturally, and prevent recurrence.

Unlike topical creams, homeopathic medicines act internally to restore skin health and overall immunity.

What is the Best Homeopathic Medicine for Pityriasis Versicolor?

Below are some commonly used and highly effective remedies. The choice of medicine depends on the patient’s specific symptoms and constitution:

  1. Sepia Officinalis

Main Use:
For brownish or discolored patches on the neck, chest, and upper back due to hormonal or immune imbalance.

Key Symptoms:

  • Brown or faded white patches that spread slowly
  • Rough, dry, or scaly skin
  • Patches worsen with heat and sweating
  • Skin feels sensitive to touch
  • Patient often feels tired, irritable, or emotionally drained
  • Suited to women with menstrual irregularities or hormonal imbalance

Best For:

  • Women with recurring skin discoloration
  • People with dull, brown spots on neck and upper chest
  • Skin issues linked with stress or hormonal changes
  1. Sulphur

Main Use:
For itchy, burning skin conditions that worsen with warmth or bathing.

Key Symptoms:

  • Dry, scaly, reddish, or discolored patches
  • Intense itching, especially at night or after a warm bath
  • Burning sensation after scratching
  • Skin becomes dirty-looking or unclean despite washing
  • Tendency for chronic or recurring skin problems

Best For:

  • People with chronic skin eruptions and itching
  • Cases that relapse after temporary improvement
  • Hot-blooded individuals who dislike heat
  1. Kali Sulphuricum

Main Use:
For yellowish or scaly patches on oily skin with mild itching.

Key Symptoms:

  • Yellowish, scaly discoloration on the trunk or back
  • Skin peels easily and appears greasy
  • Worse in warm weather, better in cool air
  • Mild to moderate itching, mostly evening time
  • Often accompanied by dandruff or seborrheic patches

Best For:

  • Oily or sweaty skin
  • Recurrent fungal infections in warm climates
  • Patients with mild itching but persistent discoloration
  1. Tellurium

Main Use:
For ring-shaped, spreading fungal infections with mild odor and scaling.

Key Symptoms:

  • Circular or oval patches with scaly margins
  • Red, elevated edges with lighter center
  • Offensive smell from the affected area
  • Itching worsens after sweating or bathing
  • Patches often merge to form large irregular areas

Best For:

  • Rapidly spreading fungal infections
  • People with sweaty skin and mild body odor
  • Cases where other treatments failed to control recurrence
  1. Thuja Occidentalis

Main Use:
For oily, sensitive skin with chronic fungal or viral skin conditions.

Key Symptoms:

  • Discolored, greasy patches on chest or arms
  • Tendency to develop warts or eruptions
  • Oily skin, especially on face and upper body
  • Sensitive skin that reacts to cosmetics or soaps
  • Associated with weak immunity or vaccination history

Best For:

  • Oily and sensitive skin type
  • Fungal infections with recurrence
  • People with history of warts or long-standing skin issues
  1. Graphites

Main Use:
For rough, cracked, and dry skin with itching and discoloration.

Key Symptoms:

  • Thick, dry, and scaly patches
  • Itching with sticky or moist discharge
  • Skin cracks easily and heals slowly
  • Patches more on folds of skin or moist areas
  • Often associated with eczema or dry skin tendency

Best For:

  • Dry skin conditions with scaling
  • Elderly patients or those with poor skin healing
  • Skin discoloration with itching and moisture

* Note – Above medicines are for knowledge purpose only. DO NOT SELF MEDICATE, These remedies must be selected individually after a complete case-taking session

Can Homeopathy Prevent Recurrence of Pityriasis Versicolor?

Yes. Unlike antifungal creams that only suppress symptoms, homeopathy corrects the underlying predisposition. It improves the body’s resistance to fungal overgrowth, which reduces the chances of recurrence even during humid weather.

How Long Does It Take to See Results with Homeopathy?

The duration of treatment varies based on:

  • Duration and severity of infection
  • Individual immune response
  • Climate and lifestyle factors

In most cases, visible improvement is seen within 4–6 weeks, and complete recovery may take 3–6 months. Regular follow-ups help maintain lasting results.

Can Diet Help Manage Pityriasis Versicolor Naturally?

Yes, diet plays a key role in controlling fungal infections. Here are some helpful tips:

  • Include: Fresh vegetables, fruits, coconut water, and probiotic foods like curd.
  • Avoid: Oily, sugary, and processed foods.
  • Hydration: Drink 2–3 liters of water daily to flush out toxins.
  • Reduce caffeine and alcohol, as they can dehydrate the skin.

Are There Any Home Remedies for Pityriasis Versicolor?

While home remedies can offer temporary relief, they should be used alongside proper medical treatment. Some natural remedies include:

  • Coconut oil: Contains lauric acid, which has antifungal properties. Apply lightly on affected areas.
  • Aloe vera gel: Soothes the skin and helps healing.
  • Neem water bath: Has antibacterial and antifungal benefits.

However, these do not cure the root cause — only homeopathy ensures long-term recovery.

FAQs Pityriasis Versicolor

1. Is Pityriasis Versicolor contagious?

  • No, it’s not contagious. It’s caused by an overgrowth of natural skin yeast and cannot spread from person to person.

2. Can Pityriasis Versicolor come back after treatment?

  • Yes, recurrence is common with chemical or antifungal creams. Homeopathy, however, helps prevent recurrence by boosting immunity.

3. Can stress trigger Pityriasis Versicolor?

  • Yes. Emotional stress can weaken your immune system and create conditions for fungal growth. Managing stress helps reduce flare-ups.

4. Does sunlight make it worse?

  • The patches become more visible after sun exposure because they do not tan like the surrounding skin, though sunlight itself doesn’t worsen the condition.

5. Can children get Pityriasis Versicolor?

  • Yes, though it’s more common in teens and adults due to hormonal changes and oily skin.

Preventive Tips for Pityriasis Versicolor

  • Take a shower after sweating.
  • Avoid tight and synthetic clothing.
  • Use mild, non-oily soaps.
  • Keep your skin dry and clean.
  • Avoid excessive sun exposure.
  • Maintain good immunity through a balanced diet and adequate rest.

Following these habits along with homeopathic treatment can help prevent recurrence.

Why Choose Homeo Care Clinic for Pityriasis Versicolor Treatment?

If you are looking for a permanent and natural cure for Pityriasis Versicolor, Homeo Care Clinic in Pune offers a personalized, scientific, and effective approach.

1. Expert Team of Doctors

  • Homeo Care Clinic’s doctors have years of experience treating chronic skin disorders like fungal infections, eczema, and psoriasis using constitutional homeopathy.

2. Root-Cause Based Approach

  • Our treatment focuses on the internal cause — not just external symptoms. This ensures long-lasting recovery without side effects.

3. Customized Medicines

  • Every patient receives a customized medicine plan after a detailed case analysis — including medical history, stress level, lifestyle, and skin type.

4. Proven Results

  • Thousands of patients have successfully recovered from skin diseases through our holistic and evidence-based treatment approach.

5. Convenient Online Consultation

  • You can consult our doctors online from the comfort of your home. Medicines are delivered right to your doorstep.

Conclusion

Pityriasis Versicolor may look simple, but its recurring nature can be frustrating. Treating only the surface doesn’t solve the problem — you need internal healing. Homeopathy offers a natural, long-lasting, and side-effect-free solution by addressing the root cause and strengthening your skin’s resistance.

If you or someone you know is struggling with Pityriasis Versicolor, it’s time to take a holistic approach.
Book your appointment today with Homeo Care Clinic and start your journey toward clear, healthy skin.

“Your health deserves more than temporary relief. Choose homeopathy for lasting results”

Start your journey towards better focus today.

Homeo Care Clinic offers a holistic approach to treating the disease. The remedies mentioned above can treat the underlying causes of the condition and offer relief from the discomfort. However, it is important to consult a qualified homeopathic practitioner for the correct dosage and duration of treatment. Homeo Care Clinic provides comprehensive care for various ailments, and offers customized treatment plans based on individual requirements.

To schedule an appointment or learn more about our treatment, please visit our website or give us a call +91 9595211594 our best homeopathy doctor will be here to help.

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About the Author Bio:

Dr. Vaseem Choudhary, is a seasoned classical homeopath with over 16 years of experience, dedicated to treating patients with compassion, precision and holistic care. Mainly in Pune & Mumbai, serving both national and international patients from UK, USA, Germany, France, Canada, Bhutan, Dubai & China. With a wide range of acute and chronic conditions—from skin disorders, hormonal issues, and digestive problems to autoimmune diseases and mental health concerns.

Dr. Vaseem is widely respected for his unique approach that combines classical homeopathy, personalized diet planning, lifestyle guidance, and a spiritual perspective on healing. He is known for his detailed and empathetic case-taking process, which focuses on treating the root cause rather than just symptoms.

In recognition of his dedication and clinical excellence, Dr. Vaseem has been honored with the Best Homeopathic Doctor in Pune award by leading platforms such as:

  • Hindustan Times
  • National Health Care Awards
  • Pune-kar News Health Excellence Forum

He is also a contributing author to the International Journal of Homeopathy and Natural Medicines (IJHNM), where he shares his research and clinical experiences with the global medical community.

With a passion to take homeopathy to new heights, Dr. Vaseem continues to guide patients towards natural, safe, and sustainable healing.