Fungal Acne: Everything You Must Know

What is Fungal Acne?

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Ok, what’s the deal? You are an adult but STILL plagued by itchy, uniform, flesh-colored or pink-colored bumps on your face, chest, and back.

Is this STILL the same acne you had as a teenager? What is going on? As if dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis were not enough now you can’t seem to shake this new rash.

Don’t worry we are here to help you. There are chances you are experiencing fungal acne. Read this blog, to learn how to get rid of fungal acne fast.

What is Fungal Acne?

The internet has many great resources on fungal acne which is also known as “Pityrosporum folliculitis” or “Malassezia folliculitis.” 

This is a common skin condition. When the Malassezia yeast on the skin causes infection in your hair follicles it can lead to small, red, itchy bumps on skin. Sometimes these bumps turn into whiteheads and can be filled with white or yellow pus.

It is often confused with hormonal acne or regular acne as both conditions develop similar symptoms. It usually appears on the cheeks, scalp, chest, and back. The treatment for fungal acne is also different from acne vulgaris. We will take a look at acne vulgaris (hormonal acne) a little later. But first it is important to understand what causes Fungal Acne.

What Causes Fungal Acne?

What Causes Fungal Acne?

Fungal acne is caused by a grease-loving yeast that used to be called Pityrosporum but now is called Malassezia. It thrives in areas of the body that are rich in an oily substance that protects your skin called sebum. 

This Malassezia yeast needs the oils in your skin to survive. In fungal acne the overproduction of yeast makes its way into the hair follicle and sebaceous gland and when it overwhelms this space, the cells that clean up infection step in and cause a local inflammatory reaction.

There are certain factors that can clog or damage the hair follicles and make the condition even worse such as

  • Poor Hygiene
  • Bad Eating Habits
  • Rubbing Skin
  • Oily Skin
  • Hormonal Imbalancement
  • Waxing, Plucking, or Shaving
  • Weather Conditions
  • Allergic Reaction
  • Low Hydration

What Does Fungal Acne Look Like?

What Does Fungal Acne Look Like?

Acne breakouts look more like rash than the usual acne. It causes clusters of small bumps on skin that may be skin-colored, red, pink, or brown. And all the bumps are of the same size and shape.

These bumps only appear on the hair follicles and can be painful and itchy. These pustules and papules usually appear on the forehead in symmetric rows and are scattered on the cheeks.

Symptoms of Fungal Acne

Symptoms of Fungal Acne

Even though breakouts in this condition may look similar to hormonal acne yet they are quite different. These symptoms can help you know if you have fungal acne.

 This is seen in the mirror as pink, red, flesh-colored bumps on your face. These bumps may appear brown or darker than the skin color on darker skin tones. You can experience these symptoms in the following areas

  • Chin
  • Forehead
  • Cheeks
  • Chest
  • Back
  • Upper arms
  • Shoulders
  • Neck 

Risk Factors

Risk Factors of Fungal Acne

Anyone who has overactive Malassezia yeast on the skin can have this condition which is why it is more common in people who are already experiencing dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis (cradle cap in babies). Here is a list of factors that may make you more prone to developing it:

  • Humid Weather 
  • Immune System Dysfunction
  • Fungal Infections
  • Using Oil-based Skincare Products
  • Excess Sweating
  • Oily Skin
  • Diabetes 

Learn more about Fungal Acne from Dr. Eddie Valenzuela

Fungal Acne Vs. Hormonal Acne

Hormonal acne also known as acne vulgaris is often confused with fungal acne due to the similar-looking symptoms. Hormonal acne is the breakouts that one may experience during puberty due to changes in the hormones.

Both conditions may look the same but it is important to distinguish them because the treatment for acne vulgaris will not make your fungal acne better.

Fungal Acne Hormonal Acne
Caused by infection in hair follicles due to Malassezia yeast. Hormonal changes in the body is the core cause.
Appears on the forehead, upper back, and chest Mostly appears on the face, neck, and chest.
Breakouts are usually small in size and skin colored Can cause blackheads and whiteheads to appear.
Clusters of pus-filled bumps are of the same size and shape. It does not appear in clusters and the size and shape varies.
Does not respond well to antibiotics Can be treated with antibiotics
Intense itching No itching or very little itching

Diagnosing Fungal Acne

If you suspect you are experiencing fungal acne but are not sure it is fungal, hormonal, or something else. It is best to consult a doctor. They can accurately diagnose your condition and provide you with the right treatment plan. 

To diagnose your condition the dermatologist will first physically examine your symptoms and ask you a few questions like

  • How long have you been experiencing breakouts?
  • What treatments have you used?
  • Any other symptoms you have experienced?

They may also perform some simple tests like skin scraping or skin biopsy to confirm your diagnosis.

Fungal Acne Treatment

Fungal Acne Treatment

If you are wondering, how do I get rid of fungal acne? We have got your answer. The yeast that causes fungal acne is the same yeast that is the cause of the redness, scaling, and irritation associated with seborrheic dermatitis.

In order to get rid of acne and bumps it is important to control the production of Malassezia yeast on the skin. This can be easily done by making a few lifestyle changes and following a proper skincare routine.

Fungal Acne Skincare Routine

The first step in your skincare routine should be to keep the skin clean. Clogged pores can worsen your condition which is why it is important to keep the skin clean with a fungal acne cleanser and get rid of the dead skin, dirt, oil, and other bacteria on the skin.

  • Wash your face or affected area with a gentle cleanser.
  • Massage the cleanser on your face in gentle circular motions
  • After washing, pat dry your skin.
  • Don’t rub or scratch your skin.
  • Moisturize your skin after washing. Use a fragrance-free moisturizer that is free from harsh chemicals and is water-based.
  • Exfoliate your skin once a week. Use a gentle exfoliator and do not overdo it.

Self-care

Making a few lifestyle changes can go a long way. It will not only help you get rid of acne but also prevent future flare-ups.

  • Avoid shaving, waxing, or plucking when the condition is severe.
  • Wear loose-fitting, breathable clothes
  • Avoid using oil-based skincare products.
  • Avoid eating oily and sugary food.
  • Use a tissue or washcloth to gently remove sweat from your skin.
  • Shower immediately after workout and exercise.
  • Pyrithione zinc for fungal acne is very beneficial. Use a dandruff shampoo that contains it regularly.

Fungal Acne Medications

These are mostly used in severe cases of acne when the condition is not getting better with OTC products. Some common medications are:

  • Itraconazole
  • Fluconazole
  • Ketoconazole

These medications should only be used when prescribed by a doctor. Excess use of these medications can cause further complications and other skin issues.

Fungal Acne Safe Products

Many people with fungal acne are quite concerned that a facial cleanser or makeup product they are using will make their fungal acne worse. Which is why we are here to help you.

Dr Eddie has developed products that are fungal acne-safe. So that you can use them without worrying about your condition.

Happy Cappy Medicated Shampoo and Body Wash is an OTC product that eliminates and prevents the recurrence of symptoms associated with seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff.

It can also be used as a fungal acne face wash.

It is fungal acne-friendly and contains pyrithione zinc as an active ingredient that can help control the production of Malassezia yeast on the skin. This fungal acne cleanser is free from harsh chemicals like fragrance, paraben, sulfate, and phthalates that may irritate the skin.

Conclusion

Fungal acne is a common skin issue that causes itchy, rashes, and bumps on the skin. It looks similar to the breakouts we experience with hormonal acne. However, this acne is caused by an infection in the hair follicles that is caused by the overproduction of Malassezia yeast on the skin.

Fungal acne can be easily managed by keeping your skin clean. Using a cleanser that contains antifungal properties or ingredients like pyrithione zinc can help you get rid of this condition.

If your condition does not get better with the use of a fungal acne face wash then consult a dermatologist they will be able to provide you with an accurate diagnosis. 

FAQs

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Dr. Eddie Valenzuela
Dr. Eddie Valenzuela is an award winning pediatrician and the founder and CEO of Pediatric Solutions, LLC.

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Why do I have fungal acne?

The main cause why you are experiencing this acne is because there is an overproduction of Malassezia yeast on your skin that is causing infection in the hair follicles. This infection clogs the pores which leads to inflammation, breakouts, and bumps on skin.

How do you know if you have fungal acne?

Fungal acne may look similar to the breakouts you experience with regular acne. Here are a few symptoms that can help you identify whether you are experiencing it or not
It causes small clusters of bumps on the skin.
The bumps usually look like red rashes
The size of the bumps is the same.
Itchy skin is very common.
Treatment for hormonal acne (acne vulgaris) is not helping your condition.

Will fungal acne go away on its own?

Fungal acne does not go away on its own and needs proper care and treatment. It is caused by Malassezia yeast, so controlling the production of yeast on the skin can help reduce the symptoms.

Can food cause fungal acne?

Food itself can not cause fungal acne, it is caused by yeast. However, certain foods can trigger a flare-up and worsen the existing conditions. Food that is too oily, sugary, and high in carbohydrates can be a culprit.

Is fungal acne itchy?

Yes, itching is a common symptom of this condition. And this is what sets it apart from regular acne. There is no itching in regular acne.

Does zinc help fungal acne?

Pyrithione zinc can help with fungal acne. Its antifungal properties help control the production of Malassezia yeast on the skin and can soothe fungal acne.

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