Tinea versicolor is a stubborn fungus which thrives on tanning beds due to the humidity and sweat which sit on their surfaces. If a bed is not cleaned properly, this fungus can multiply quickly once the tanning bed lights turn off. This fungal infection presents most commonly as small depigmented or white spots on the upper and mid back. Most people will complain that these white spots do not tan no matter how much they sit out in the sun or lie on the tanning bed. If they sweat a lot due to summer weather, this provides a perfect banquet for the fungus as it begins to feed off the sweat and multiply, worsening the condition.

Thankfully, there are a couple of over-the-counter agents which can be used to treat tinea versicolor. Several effective agents are clotrimazole, miconazole, or terbinafine, all of which are found in a number of athlete’s foot remedies. Another effective remedy is selenium sulfide, which is an agent used in dandruff shampoos. If you choose to use the cream, apply to the affected area three times daily until the condition resolves. If you opt for the shampoo, allow the substance to sit on your skin for ten minutes before rinsing off, and make sure to apply to the affected area twice daily. If the condition does not resolve after two weeks, seek the care of your primary care physician to obtain a prescription strength medication.