Understanding Fungal Acne
Fungal acne, also known as pityrosporum folliculitis or malassezia folliculitis, is a persistent skin condition characterized by itchy, red bumps on the face, back, chest and shoulders. Unlike traditional acne, fungal acne is caused by an overgrowth of yeast on the skin rather than bacteria.
The yeast responsible for fungal acne is called Malassezia. This yeast naturally lives on everyone's skin but is kept in check by proper skin care and hygiene. However, some people are more prone to overgrowths which leads to inflammation and acne-like breakouts.
Those with naturally oily skin types are most at risk as the yeast thrives on the excess sebum production. The use of heavy creams and oils may also feed the yeast and trigger fungal acne in some cases. Family history, hormonal changes and compromised immune systems can increase susceptibility as well.
Symptoms of Fungal Acne
The main symptoms of fungal acne include:
- Small red or skin-colored bumps on the face, chest, back and shoulders
- Itchy, persistent breakouts that won't clear with traditional acne treatments
- Potential whiteheads and pustules
- Oily skin or flaky skin patches
Causes of Fungal Acne
There are several factors that can trigger fungal acne growth, such as:
- Excess oil production which feeds the yeast
- Hormonal changes like puberty, pregnancy or menopause
- High humidity environments
- Use of oils and thick moisturizers
- Sweating and not cleansing skin afterwards
- Impaired immune system
- Genetics and family history
Best Moisturizers for Fungal Acne
While traditional acne thrives on oily, non-comedogenic formulas, fungal acne requires an entirely different moisturizer approach. Products that are oil-free, fragrance-free and contain antifungal ingredients are best for clearing up fungal acne breakouts and preventing further flare ups.
Gel-Based Moisturizers
Gel moisturizers provide lightweight hydration without clogging pores or feeding the fungal acne yeast. They quickly absorb into skin and have a matte, non-greasy finish. Some top gel moisturizers include:
- The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA - Oil-free, vegan gel cream with hydrating hyaluronic acid and amino acids
- Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel Cream - Fast-absorbing water gel infused with hyaluronic acid
- Versed Dew Point Moisturizing Gel Cream - Aloe-based, oil-free gel that soothes and hydrates skin
- EltaMD AM Therapy Facial Moisturizer - Lightweight lotion with lactic acid to gently exfoliate
Lotions and Serums
Lotions and serums provide an extra boost of hydration while still being lightweight enough for fungal acne. Look for oil-free, silicone-free options. Recommended lotions and serums include:
- First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Face Moisturizer - Oil-free lotion packed with colloidal oatmeal to hydrate and calm skin
- Paula's Choice RESIST Youth-Extending Daily Hydrating Fluid SPF 50 - Lightweight SPF moisturizer with antioxidants
- The INKEY List Polyglutamic Acid - Hydrating serum that reduces oil and soothes inflammation
- The Ordinary "Buffet" Serum - Multi-peptide and amino acid serum to hydrate skin
Gel-Cream Moisturizers
Gel-cream moisturizers offer a nice in-between option, providing richer hydration than a gel while maintaining a lightweight texture. Some picks include:
- La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer - Oil-free gel-cream with ceramides and niacinamide for hydration
- CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion - Lightweight lotion with skin-replenishing ceramides
- Vanicream Daily Facial Moisturizer - Fragrance-free gel-cream suitable for sensitive skin
- Aveeno Calm and Restore Oat Gel Moisturizer - Soothing oat-infused gel-cream to hydrate and calm
Moisturizers with Antifungal Ingredients
Certain ingredients have natural antifungal and antimicrobial properties that can help treat fungal acne and prevent further flare ups. Look for moisturizers containing:
- Tea tree oil - Powerful antifungal and antimicrobial properties
- Aloe vera - Soothes inflammation and has antifungal effects
- Honey - Antimicrobial and healing properties
- Zinc - Antimicrobial mineral that reduces yeast overgrowth
- Sulfur - Keratolytic ingredient to treat fungal acne
Some moisturizers containing these antifungal ingredients include:
- The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA - Contains zinc PCA
- Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel Cream - Formulated with hyaluronic acid
- First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Oat & Honey Moisturizer - Infused with honey and colloidal oatmeal
- Sunday Riley U.F.O. Ultra-Clarifying Face Oil - Tea tree oil and salicylic acid help clear acne
Tips for Using Moisturizer with Fungal Acne
When shopping for and using moisturizers to treat fungal acne, keep these tips in mind:
- Always check the ingredients list and avoid oils, thick creams or products high in esters
- Stick to gel textures which are lightweight and oil-free
- Apply only a small amount of moisturizer to avoid over-hydrating skin
- Focus application on the driest areas like cheeks and avoid the T-zone
- Cleanse skin thoroughly before applying moisturizer
- Use moisturizers containing skin-soothing and antifungal ingredients
- Discontinue use if breakouts worsen and switch products
Other Fungal Acne Skincare Tips
In addition to moisturizer, a proper fungal acne skincare routine should include:
- Frequent cleansing with a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser
- Exfoliating 2-3 times a week with salicylic acid or lactic acid
- Using oil-free sunscreen during the day
- Avoiding heavy makeup and occlusive products
- Seeing a dermatologist for prescription antifungal treatments if over-the-counter options don't improve breakouts
When to See a Dermatologist
While home care
FAQs
Can I use any moisturizer if I have fungal acne?
No, you need to choose moisturizers specially formulated for fungal acne. Avoid oil-based and thick creams which can feed the fungal overgrowth. Opt for lightweight, gel-based moisturizers labeled oil-free and non-comedogenic.
Are natural moisturizers better for fungal acne?
Not necessarily. Some plant oils and butters may still feed fungal growth. Check that any natural moisturizer is oil-free and non-comedogenic. Some beneficial natural ingredients include aloe vera, tea tree oil and honey.
Should I moisturize if I have oily, fungal acne prone skin?
Yes, even oily skin needs hydration. Look for lightweight gel or water-based moisturizers that absorb quickly without adding extra oil. Focus on hydrating the driest areas like cheeks rather than heavily moisturizing the entire face.
Can I use moisturizer if I'm treating fungal acne with Nizoral?
You can use a gentle moisturizer with Nizoral, just avoid applying them at the same time. Use Nizoral on clean skin, let it sit for a few minutes, rinse off, then apply your fungal acne-safe moisturizer after.
How long does it take for a fungal acne moisturizer to work?
It depends on the individual, but be patient. Consistently using the proper antifungal moisturizer for 1-2 months is often needed to see clearance of fungal acne bumps. Combine with other anti-fungal treatments for best results.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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