What is Fungal Acne?
Fungal acne, also known as pityrosporum folliculitis or malassezia folliculitis, is a skin condition caused by an overgrowth of yeast on the skin. The specific yeast responsible is called malassezia. This yeast is naturally found on everyone's skin, but certain factors can trigger an overgrowth leading to fungal acne.
What Causes Fungal Acne on the Face?
There are a few contributing factors that can cause malassezia yeast to multiply rapidly on facial skin:
- Excess skin oils - The yeast feeds on skin oils (sebum)
- Hormonal changes
- Stress
- Humid and hot environments
- Sweating
- Using skincare products that feed yeast growth
Symptoms of Fungal Acne on the Face
The main symptoms of fungal acne include:
- Small whiteheads and closed comedomes
- Pimples that don't come to a head
- Itchy red bumps
- Occurs mainly on the forehead, cheeks, and jawline
Fungal Acne Treatment
Getting rid of fungal acne requires treating the yeast overgrowth. Some effective treatment methods include:
Over-the-Counter Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
Shampoos containing zinc pyrithione, ketoconazole, or selenium sulfide have anti-fungal properties and can be used as a facial wash.
Prescription Anti-Fungal Medications
If OTC shampoos aren't strong enough, visiting a dermatologist can provide access to prescription strength anti-fungal face washes, creams containing ketoconazole, or oral medications.
Probiotic Skincare Products
Probiotics help balance skin and prevent overgrowth of bad microbes like fungus. Using probiotic skincare products can help treat and prevent fungal acne.
FAQs
What's the difference between fungal acne and regular acne?
The main difference is that fungal acne is caused by a yeast/fungus growth on the skin rather than bacteria. Fungal acne also looks more like small uniform whiteheads/closed comedomes rather than the inflamed red pimples caused by regular acne bacteria.
Can fungal acne spread between people?
No, fungal acne cannot be spread between people through contact. The malassezia yeast that causes it is naturally found on everyone's skin already.
Can fungal acne scarring occur?
While fungal acne itself doesn't cause scarring, picking at the bumps can potentially lead to infection and scars. It's best not to pick pimples and let them heal on their own.
Does fungal acne go away on its own?
In mild cases with only a small number of bumps, fungal acne may clear up without treatment. However if the yeast overgrowth continues, then actively treating it is necessary.
What foods trigger fungal acne?
Foods that are high in sugar, carbs and oils can worsen fungal acne. This includes things like white bread, soda, chips, fast food, and fried foods.
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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