Have you ever heard of fungal acne? It’s not your typical acne. If you’ve been struggling with small, itchy pimples that don’t seem to go away, it could be fungal acne, which is different from the usual acne most people know. It’s caused by an overgrowth of yeast, not bacteria.
Imagine Sarah, a 25-year-old who noticed small red bumps on her forehead. They were itchy and seemed different from the usual acne she had experienced as a teenager. After trying various acne treatments with no luck, she learned that she had fungal acne. This story isn’t unique. Many, like Sarah, mistake this for regular acne and don’t know how to treat fungal acne.
What is Fungal Acne?
Fungal acne, or Malassezia folliculitis, is a skin condition often mistaken for regular acne or acne vulgaris. This type of acne is caused by an overgrowth of yeast in the hair follicles (Pityrosporum folliculitis). This yeast is naturally present on everyone’s skin and is part of your regular skin flora, but when it grows too much, it causes problems.
Symptoms and Causes of Fungal Acne Infection
What causes Fungal Acne?
The accumulation of dead skin cells can contribute to fungal acne as this arises from specific factors that encourage the overgrowth of yeast on the skin, and certain conditions can disrupt the balance, leading to an overgrowth.
- Humid and Warm Environments: Yeast thrives in moist conditions. Living in a humid climate can cause excessive sweating and increase the risk of fungal acne.
- Changes in Skin pH: A skin pH imbalance anywhere on the body can increase the likelihood of developing fungal acne. Using harsh skincare products or frequent washing, shaving, and waxing hair can alter this balance, making the skin more susceptible to yeast overgrowth.
- Compromised Immune System: People with weakened immune systems, either due to medical conditions or medications, are more susceptible to fungal acne, as their body’s natural defence against yeast overgrowth is diminished.
- Use of Antibiotics: Long-term use of antibiotics can disrupt the natural balance of microorganisms on the skin and in the body, allowing yeast to grow excessively.
Athletes and individuals who lead active lifestyles are more prone to developing fungal acne due to frequent sweating, their skin rubbing often and wearing tight clothes. This sweat can create a favourable environment for yeast growth. Similarly, teens and young adults are at a higher risk, as hormonal changes during these years often increase oil production in the skin, contributing to the conditions that favour the development of fungal acne.
Symptoms of Fungal Acne
Unlike regular acne, fungal acne often comes in various sizes and shapes, where the pimples are generally small, red, and similar sizes. If you’ve been treating your skin with typical acne products and see no improvement, it might be because you’re dealing with fungal acne.
A distinct feature of a fungal infection is itchiness and burning.
Fungal acne often shows up in areas where sweat accumulates, like:
- Face
- Forehead
- Chest
- Back
- Neck
- Upper Arms
- Shoulders
Here’s a simple way to think about it: If your skin problems worsen with sweat and oil, it might be fungal acne. Most acne treatments are designed to reduce bacteria and unclog pores. Since fungal acne is yeast-based, these ineffective treatments can sometimes worsen the condition. Remember, fungal acne isn’t about poor hygiene. It’s your skin’s reaction to an imbalance of the natural yeast.
How to Treat Fungal Acne
A fungal acne diagnosis typically involves a thorough examination of the skin and may include tests to confirm the presence of an overgrowth of yeast. There are various ways to treat fungal acne.
Antifungal Creams
Antifungal creams are a frontline treatment for fungal acne. Products like Trimovate cream, Fucibet cream, and Daktacort cream effectively combat the yeast. These creams are applied directly to the affected areas and can quickly reduce symptoms.
Antifungal Shampoos
Antifungal shampoos like Nizoral can be beneficial for treating larger body areas. These shampoos contain ketoconazole, an ingredient effective against the yeast causing fungal acne. You can use them as a body wash on the affected areas.
Oral Medications
When topical treatments don’t provide sufficient relief, a GP or pharmacist might recommend oral antifungal medications like Fluconazole. These medications are potent and address the condition internally.
Topical Treatments
Besides specific antifungal creams, other topical treatments like azelaic acid can help manage fungal acne. They help balance yeast growth on the skin and prevent flare-ups.
Consult a GP or pharmacist before starting any treatment, as they can offer personalised advice and recommend the most suitable treatment for your condition.
Understanding the Differences: Fungal Acne Vs. Regular Acne
Fungal acne and regular acne might look similar, but they have distinct differences in several aspects:
Sensation: Fungal Acne Vs. Regular Acne
- Fungal Acne: Typically presents with itching and a burning sensation.
- Regular Acne: Feelings range from no discomfort to pain, especially cystic acne, which can be painful and lead to scarring.
Appearance: Fungal Acne Vs. Regular Acne
- Fungal Acne: Appears as small, uniformly-sized white bumps surrounded by red skin. These bumps usually group together.
- Regular Acne: Shows up in various forms, including whiteheads, blackheads, cysts, and skin-coloured bumps. The sizes and spacing of these blemishes vary significantly.
Location: Fungal Acne Vs. Regular Acne
- Fungal Acne: Commonly found on the forehead, temples, hairline, upper chest, and mid-back.
- Regular Acne: Can occur on any facial area (including the forehead, nose, cheeks, chin, jawline, hairline, and temples), neck, chest, and back.
Causes: Fungal Acne Vs. Regular Acne
- Fungal Acne: Caused by an overgrowth of Malassezia yeast.
- Regular Acne: Caused by bacterial growth and clogged pores.
Treatment: Fungal Acne Vs. Regular Acne
- Fungal Acne: Home remedies include bentonite clay masks, chemical exfoliants like lactic or salicylic acid, dandruff body wash, and natural antifungals. Medical treatments involve antifungal creams and medications.
- Regular Acne: Treatments range from hormonal regulation (like birth control) to salicylic acid, topical retinoids, antibiotics (topical and oral), and oral retinoids.
Prevention of Fungal Acne
Preventing fungal acne breakouts involves a combination of good skincare routines and lifestyle choices, so keep your skin clean and dry. Regularly wash areas prone to fungal acne, especially after sweating and choose non-comedogenic skincare products that won’t clog pores.
Wearing loose, breathable clothing can also help, as tight clothes trap moisture and create a livable environment for yeast growth. Maintaining cleanliness in your living environment is essential, too. Change bed sheets and towels frequently, especially if you live in a humid climate.
Pay attention to your diet as well. Balancing your consumption of sweets and foods high in carbohydrates can be beneficial, as fungi and yeast thrive on these nutrients. This dietary adjustment might help in slowing down the growth of fungal infections.
Regular exercise and stress management also play a role. Physical activity promotes healthy blood flow, while stress management techniques like meditation can improve your overall well-being, impacting your skin positively.
Fungal Acne Treatment with Click2Pharmacy
If you’re struggling with fungal acne or other skin concerns, Click2Pharmacy’s Online Acne Treatment Clinic can help. We offer personalised advice and treatment plans, and our team of licensed professionals understand the unique challenges of skin conditions like fungal acne.
You can reach out to us for an online consultation. Whether you need advice on treatment options, prescription services, or just someone to guide you through your skincare journey, our pharmacists at Click2Pharmacy are there to assist you.
Don’t let fungal acne affect your life. Contact us today for expert care and support in managing your skin health.
