fungal acne - what is it and how do i treat it? 

You may be familiar with the term 'fungal acne', especially if you're navigating the challenges of acne. Though it shares part of its name with 'regular' acne, fungal acne is somewhat of a misnomer, with distinct causes and treatment approaches. Let's dive into what this condition and explore the best ways to care for it.

Fungal acne, known medically as malassezia folliculitis, is a deceptive skin condition that's commonly mistaken for traditional acne. Unlike the typical acne caused by a mix of bacteria, oil, and dead skin cells, fungal acne arises from an overgrowth of yeast—a type of fungus that's a normal resident on our skin. This overgrowth within the hair follicles triggers an inflammatory response, leading to small, itchy bumps that can appear anywhere on the body but are most commonly found on the chest, back, and shoulders. These bumps are uniform in appearance, which is one clue that you might be dealing with fungal rather than bacterial acne.

The primary culprit behind fungal acne is the yeast overgrowth in warm, moist environments. This condition thrives in areas where sweat and heat are trapped against the skin, such as under tight, non-breathable clothing during or after intense physical activity. Unlike bacterial acne, which can be influenced by factors like diet and hormonal changes, fungal acne is more about the external environment and less about internal factors. The yeast responsible for fungal acne, Malassezia, feeds on the oils produced by our skin, which means that any excessive oiliness or sweat can exacerbate the condition.

Treating fungal acne requires a different approach taken to bacterial acne:

• Antifungal Medications: Over-the-counter treatments containing active ingredients like ketoconazole or clotrimazole can be effective in managing fungal acne by reducing yeast overgrowth.
• Skincare Product Adjustment: It's crucial to evaluate your current skincare and makeup products. Opt for non-comedogenic, oil-free options that don't exacerbate yeast growth. Avoid heavy creams and oils that can feed the yeast and worsen the condition.
• Dermatological Consultation: For persistent or severe cases, seeking advice from a dermatologist is key. They may prescribe stronger antifungal treatments or recommend specific skincare routines tailored to your needs.
• Preventive Measures: Preventing fungal acne involves lifestyle and hygiene changes. Wear loose, breathable clothing, especially during exercise, and change out of sweaty clothes immediately after physical activity. Maintain a simple, gentle skincare routine that keeps the skin clean and dry without irritating it.

We hope that you've found this blog helpful - if you have any questions or would like to share your skincare journey with us, we'd love to hear from you. You can get in touch via the form below or by DM on IG.