DEAR DR. GOTT: I have been plagued with an extensive tinea versicolor skin infection on my back and abdomen since I was a teenager. I was treated by at least five doctors over the years. One suggested using Selsun Blue shampoo as a lotion overnight for several days, which was unpleasant and only provided a few weeks of relief. The infection even returned within about four to six months of taking oral antifungal medication. My last doctor said these meds were dangerous to the liver. I am an otherwise healthy woman in my 50s.

About three years ago, I used the only sunblock I happened to have on hand, Banana Boat for Kids SPF 50. After two days of application following my morning shower, I noticed my tinea versicolor disappearing! I kept applying it daily, and the skin infection completely cleared within about a week. [Read more...]