Pityriasis versicolor occurs worldwide but is more prevalent in tropical and subtropical areas. Although primarily a disorder of adolescents and young adults, pityriasis versicolor also may occur in prepubertal children and infants. Malassezia species commonly colonize the skin in the first year of life and usually are harmless commensals. Malassezia can be associated with bloodstream infections, especially in neonates receiving total parenteral nutrition with lipids.

The incubation period is unknown.