I'm a 14 year old female as well, and the same thing is happening to me. My mom noticed it today and asked me what these spots were and I had no clue, I mean I had never seen them. I know it's not good to online diagnose or get worked up but I can't help it. I am very worried and scared. Could you please explain those big words (haha) and tell me what I should do, explain what's happening and tell me if I should be worried?
Thanks :)
Hi,
Tinea versicolor or pityriasis versicolor is a common skin infection caused by the yeast Malassezia furfur (formerly termed Pityrosporum ovale). This yeast is normally found on the human skin and only becomes troublesome under certain circumstances, such as a warm and humid environment.
This presents as pale, dark tan, or pink spots, with a reddish undertone that can darken when the patient is overheated, such as in a hot shower or during/after exercise .
In people with dark skin tones, pigmentary changes such as hypopigmentation (loss of color) are common, while in those with lighter skin color, hyperpigmentation (increase in skin color) are more common.
Topical antifungal medications - containing either 2.5% selenium sulfide or 2% ketoconazole (Nizoral ointment and shampoo) applied to dry skin and washed off after 10 minutes, repeated daily for 2 weeks will help resolve it.
Recurrence is common and may be reduced by intermittent application of topical agents (such as tea tree oil) or adding a small amount of anti-dandruff shampoo to water used for bathing.
ref:http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tinea_versicolor
Forgot to mention, I'm female and the patches cause no skin irritation.