FUNGUS!!!

Yeah I know, this is kind of disgusting but I want to write about it anyway. So this past summer, after my wonderful trip from Hawaii, I started noticing small white patches on my skin, more specifically my back and thought maybe I was just peeling from a lovely sunburn. But months passed and the spots persisted. They never hurt or itched or anything. They just looked unpleasant. A few months ago I went to my dermatologist and asked about these white spots and he proceeded to tell me I had a fungal infection – GROSS!

This fungal infection is called tinea versicolor or pitryiasis versicolor. (Refer to picture, but it's obviously not me and my fungus isn't that bad) It is when naturally occurring yeast found normally on the skin becomes infected. After freaking out for a little bit, my doctor assured me that its actually a common fungal infection of the skin that is usually seen after returning from a place with hot and humid weather (check) and very common in people that sweat and work out a lot (double check). This hypopigmentation of the skin is usually most noticeable during the summer time when the skin is tan and are usually located in the upper back, chest and arms. There are no real major concerns or problems with it besides it looking cosmetically unappealing. The spots can be treated with antifungal creams. Go take a look in the mirror....have you noticed any spots lately??

So what’s the bottom line???? Well besides grossing you out and telling you about my awesome skin, the best way to prevent the fungal infection: WASH YOUR BODY ASAP AFTER YOU FINISH WORKING OUT and/or SWEATING!

Hope you have a good week ya’ll!