Parts of my skin won't tan

About 2 years ago I went on vacation to California, but I was completely idiotic and slaphappy and thought "Hay I won't use sun screen because I want a tan!"

Surely enough that night I was so sunburnt, and I eventually developed sun poisoning all over my shoulders, blisters and all.  My mistake.  Anyways, along my back are my tan lines that have not gone away what-so-ever, just fade in the winter time.  I've been outside as of recent and (I am protected this time) but I received color everywhere except my tan lines of where my straps were.  So it's tan, white, tan.... I've also developed small white spots on my shoulders from that time, they're not noticeable but I was hoping someone could also tell me what that may be.

I don't have enough money to go see a dermatologist as of yet but this is really concerning me, and I would gladly e-mail a picture of my back if anyone is interested to see the damage.

Thank you!!

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
It can be due to tinea versicolor. Tinea versicolor is caused by a fungus that lives in the skin of almost all adults. Factors that can cause the fungus to become more visible include high humidity and immune or hormone abnormalities. Treatment involves topical and oral antifungal medicines.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.