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Pityriasis versicolor

Pityriasis versicolor is a common fungal skin infection. It's sometimes also called tinea versicolor. A GP can prescribe treatment for it, but it can keep coming back.

This page provides general information and does not replace a doctor’s consultation. If symptoms are severe, persistent or worsening, seek medical advice promptly.

Pityriasis versicolor is a common fungal skin infection. It's sometimes also called tinea versicolor. A GP can prescribe treatment for it, but it can keep coming back.

Pityriasis versicolor is different to pityriasis rosea.

Symptoms of pityriasis versicolor

Pityriasis versicolor causes patches of skin to change colour.

If you're not sure it's pityriasis versicolor

Other conditions can have similar symptoms to pityriasis versicolor.

For example, discoloured patches could be vitiligo, and flaky, raised patches could be psoriasis.

Do not try to diagnose the problem yourself – see a GP if you're worried.

See a GP if:

  • patches of your skin have changed colour – if it's pityriasis versicolor, it will usually only go away if treated
  • you have any other changes to your skin you're worried about

Treatment from a GP

A GP can prescribe treatment for pityriasis versicolor.

The main treatments are:

  • antifungal shampoo (such as ketoconazole) that you use on the affected skin and rinse off after a few minutes
  • antifungal cream

If pityriasis versicolor covers a large area, or shampoos and creams do not work, a GP may prescribe antifungal tablets.

It can take a few months for the skin to return to its usual colour after treatment and the patches can come back.

If they come back, you may need the same treatment again or your GP may suggest long-term treatment such as using antifungal shampoo every few weeks.

How you get pityriasis versicolor

Pityriasis versicolor is caused by a type of fungus that lives on the skin.

Most people have this fungus on their skin without it causing any problems. But sometimes it can grow and spread more than usual, causing pityriasis versicolor.

It's not always clear why this happens. It's not caused by not washing your skin and most people who have it are otherwise healthy.

Pityriasis versicolor cannot spread from person to person.

Consult with a doctor about Pityriasis versicolor

Consult with a doctor about Pityriasis versicolor

Discuss your symptoms and possible next steps with a doctor online.

Online doctors for Pityriasis versicolor

Discuss your symptoms and possible next steps for Pityriasis versicolor with a doctor online.

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Doctor

Daniel Cichi

Family medicine 24 years of experience

Dr Daniel Cichi is a family medicine doctor with over 20 years of clinical experience. He provides online consultations for adults, supporting patients with acute symptoms, chronic conditions, and everyday health concerns that require timely medical guidance. His background includes work in emergency care, ambulance services, and family medicine, which allows him to assess symptoms quickly, identify warning signs, and help patients choose the safest next steps – whether that means home care, treatment adjustment, or in-person evaluation. Patients commonly consult Dr Daniel Cichi for: 

  • acute symptoms: fever, infections, flu-like illness, cough, sore throat, shortness of breath;
  • chest discomfort, palpitations, dizziness, fatigue, and blood pressure concerns;
  • digestive problems: abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhoea, constipation, reflux;
  • sexually transmitted infections, erectile dysfunction;
  • muscle, joint, and back pain, minor injuries, post-traumatic symptoms;
  • chronic conditions: hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol, thyroid disorders, weight loss, hair loss;
  • review and interpretation of lab tests, imaging reports, and medical documents;
  • medication review and treatment adjustment;
  • medical advice while travelling or living abroad;
  • second opinions and guidance on whether in-person care is needed.

Dr Cichi’s consultations are structured and practical. He focuses on clear explanations, risk assessment, and actionable recommendations, helping patients understand their symptoms and make informed decisions about their health.

5.0 (100)
Doctor

Tarek Agami

General medicine 11 years of experience

Dr. Tarek Agami is a general practitioner registered in both Portugal and Israel, with broad experience in family and preventive medicine. He offers online consultations for adults and children, providing personalised support for primary care needs, chronic disease management, and everyday health concerns.

Dr. Agami received clinical training and worked in leading medical institutions in Israel (Kaplan Medical Center, Barzilai Medical Center, Wolfson Medical Center) and Portugal (European Healthcare City, Viscura Internacional, Hospital Dr. José Maria Grande, Hospital Vila Franca de Xira). His approach combines international medical standards with individualised attention to each patient.

Main areas of consultation:

  • Diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic conditions (high blood pressure, diabetes, respiratory infections, cardiovascular symptoms)
  • Evaluation of symptoms and guidance on further diagnostic testing
  • Preventive check-ups and regular health monitoring
  • Medical support during travel or after relocation
  • Treatment adjustments and lifestyle recommendations based on your personal history
Dr. Agami provides medical support for patients using GLP-1 medications (such as Ozempic or Mounjaro) as part of a weight loss strategy. He offers individualised treatment planning, regular follow-up, dose adjustment, and advice on combining medication with sustainable lifestyle changes. Consultations follow the medical standards accepted in Portugal and Israel.

Dr. Agami is committed to evidence-based, patient-centred care, ensuring that each person receives trusted medical support tailored to their health goals.

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Doctor

Chikeluo Okeke

General medicine 4 years of experience

Dr Chikeluo Okeke is an internal medicine doctor with extensive international clinical experience. Originally from Nigeria, he has worked across multiple European healthcare systems and currently practises in Sweden. This professional path has given him a strong understanding of different medical approaches and the ability to work effectively with patients from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds.

Dr Okeke focuses on general internal medicine and adult primary care, combining clinical accuracy with careful attention to lifestyle, personal context, and everyday health concerns. His consultations are particularly well suited for people who seek medical advice online, live abroad, or need clear guidance without unnecessary complexity.

He provides online consultations covering symptom assessment, prevention, and long-term management of chronic conditions, helping patients understand what is happening and decide on appropriate next steps.

Common reasons for consultation:

  • General internal medicine concerns and initial health assessment.
  • Acute symptoms such as fever, cough, infections, pain, or weakness.
  • Chronic conditions and treatment adjustment.
  • Blood pressure issues, fatigue, metabolic concerns.
  • Preventive consultations and routine check-ups.
  • Interpretation of laboratory results and medical reports.
  • Medical advice for patients receiving care online.

Dr Okeke is known for his clear communication, calm approach, and cultural awareness. He listens carefully, explains medical decisions in a structured way, and supports patients in making informed choices about their health.

Online consultations with Dr Chikeluo Okeke offer reliable internal medicine care without geographic limitations, focused on medical relevance, clarity, and patient comfort.

5.0 (110)
Doctor

Jorge Correa Bellido

General medicine 7 years of experience

Dr. Jorge Correa Bellido is a Spanish physician who offers online consultations in Spanish and English. He graduated from the University of La Laguna and has a solid background in clinical practice and international research.

Throughout his career, he has participated in various medical and academic projects, including a research fellowship in Spain, where he contributed to evidence-based studies in the field of family medicine. This experience allowed him to broaden his global perspective on healthcare and comprehensive patient care.

Dr. Correa Bellido has worked with several healthcare providers in Spain, focusing particularly on patient-centered care and public health initiatives aimed at communities with limited access to healthcare services.

In addition, he actively participates in international medical conferences and workshops, which allows him to stay up to date with the latest medical advances and collaborate with healthcare professionals from different countries.

Dr. Correa Bellido provides comprehensive care for a wide variety of medical conditions, including:

  • respiratory infections
  • gastrointestinal disorders
  • cardiovascular problems
  • endocrine and metabolic diseases
  • musculoskeletal and dermatological conditions
  • as well as mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression.

He also treats infectious and allergic diseases, general health concerns, and provides guidance on prevention and healthy lifestyle habits.

His services include virtual consultations, diagnosis and management of acute and chronic diseases, prescription renewals, and personalized medical advice.

With a patient-centered approach and a strong commitment to continuous learning, Dr. Correa Bellido provides accessible and high-quality healthcare to patients both in Spain and around the world.

5.0 (213)
Doctor

Nuno Tavares Lopes

Family medicine 18 years of experience

Dr. Nuno Tavares Lopes is a licensed physician in Portugal with 17 years of experience in emergency medicine, family and general practice, and public health. He is the Director of Medical and Public Health Services at an international healthcare network and serves as an external consultant for the WHO and ECDC.

  • Emergency care: infections, fever, chest/abdominal pain, minor injuries, paediatric emergencies
  • Family medicine: hypertension, diabetes, cholesterol, chronic disease management
  • Travel medicine: pre-travel advice, vaccinations, fit-to-fly certificates, travel-related illnesses
  • Sexual and reproductive health: PrEP, STD prevention, counselling, treatment
  • Weight management and wellness: personalised weight loss programmes, lifestyle guidance
  • Skin and ENT issues: acne, eczema, allergies, rashes, sore throat, sinusitis
  • Pain management: acute and chronic pain, post-surgical care
  • Public health: prevention, health screenings, long-term monitoring
  • Sick leave (Baixa médica) connected to Segurança Social in Portugal
  • IMT medical certificates for driving licence exchange
Dr. Nuno Tavares Lopes provides medical support for patients using GLP-1 medications (Mounjaro, Wegovy, Ozempic, Rybelsus) as part of a weight loss strategy. He offers individualised treatment planning, regular follow-up, dose adjustment, and advice on combining medication with sustainable lifestyle changes. Consultations follow the medical standards accepted in Europe.

Dr. Lopes also provides interpretation of medical tests, follow-up care for complex patients, and multilingual support. Whether for urgent concerns or long-term care, he helps patients act with clarity and confidence.

5.0 (18)
Doctor

Lizaveta Trafimchuk Takhvaniuk

Dermatology 10 years of experience

Dr. Lizaveta Trafimchuk Takhvaniuk graduated in Medicine and subsequently specialized in Dermatology and Venereology. She has more than 10 years of clinical experience and is licensed to practice in Spain, where she focuses on the comprehensive diagnosis and treatment of dermatological conditions.

Throughout her education and professional career, Dr. Trafimchuk has gained extensive experience in managing diseases of the skin, hair, and nails, as well as in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Her clinical approach is based on evidence-based medicine, combined with personalized care tailored to each patient’s needs.

In her daily practice, she treats a wide range of dermatological conditions, including chronic inflammatory dermatoses such as acne, rosacea, atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, and eczema. She also has experience in treating pigmentation disorders, including melasma, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and dyschromia.

She has developed a particular interest in trichology, treating various types of alopecia, chronic hair loss, and scalp disorders. In addition, she has experience in managing infectious dermatoses of fungal, viral, and bacterial origin, as well as in evaluating benign and suspicious skin lesions, with referral to specialized care when necessary.

With a strong interest in a comprehensive approach to skin health, she also treats scars, post-procedural skin changes, and conditions related to hormonal factors and aging, including those associated with pregnancy, menopause, and age-related skin changes.

Thanks to her experience and continuous professional development, Dr. Trafimchuk provides high-quality medical care that is professional, confidential, and aligned with modern dermatology standards.

5.0 (1272)
Doctor

Andrei Popov

General medicine 7 years of experience

Dr. Andrei Popov is a family physician with specialized training in the management of chronic pain. He provides video consultations for adults in Spain and across Europe: whether you have been living with pain for months that no one has been able to properly explain, or you need to resolve a health issue without waiting weeks for an appointment.

His approach is clear: to listen, organize your case, and provide you with a practical roadmap based on evidence-based medicine and adapted to your medical history and personal needs.

Pain: how he can help

  • Chronic pain (more than 3 months
  • Migraine and recurrent or high-intensity headaches
  •  Neck, lower back, back and joint pain
  •  Post-traumatic pain after injuries or surgeries
  •  Pain of neurological origin: neuralgia, neuropathic pain, fibromyalgia

General medicine

  • Frequent respiratory infections (cold, flu, persistent cough)
  • Hypertension, diabetes and metabolic disorders
  • Review of laboratory tests and MRI/CT reports (explained in clear language)
  • Preventive medicine and health monitoring
  • Second opinions and treatment adjustments (when clinically appropriate)

What the consultation is like
 Each session lasts up to 30 minutes. We review symptoms, medical history, medications and any tests you provide, and you finish the consultation with a clear treatment plan, defined next steps, and criteria to understand when follow-up may be needed. If warning signs are detected, he will clearly advise whether you need in-person care or urgent medical attention.

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