November 22, 2021

What is Fungal Acne?

The Condition of Fungal Acne

Acne Vulgaris is an inflammatory condition triggered by Cutibacterium Acne Bacteria. Unlike Acne Vulgaris, Fungal Acne is caused by lipophilic strains of Malassezia Yeast (a fungus). It’s a condition that is a type of infection in your skin’s hair follicles.

Fungal Acne is more accurately known as Malassezia Folliculitis. This condition appears in patches of small pustular, and itchy/irritated red bumps, usually these bumps are highly uniform in their presentation!

Fungal Acne Vs Acne Vulgaris

Fungal Acne isn’t really Acne, it is a fungal infection of the pilo-sebaceous unit and caused by the overgrowth of Malassezia yeast strains. Usually, in response to occlusion of the hair follicle and disturbance of the skin’s flora. Also, Fungal acne can often be mistaken for acne vulgaris, however, unlike Acne Vulgaris, the condition of Fungal Acne can cause very itchy skin that’s not accompanied by comedones.

Fungal acne usually causes whiteheads & skin irritation while acne vulgaris is usually associated with blackheads & whiteheads. Also, it’s important to note that both conditions won’t respond to the same treatment, so if you have Fungal Acne then regular anti-acne treatments would not work and can in fact make the condition worse for you.

Causes of Fungal Acne

Apart from the main cause already highlighted, there can be several more causes for Fungal Acne development. These are:

1. Trapped Moisture: Wearing sweaty workout clothes for too long usually encourages yeast growth. Also wearing workout clothes without getting them washed properly can expose your skin to fungi that might have grown in the dirty clothes.
2. Diet Changes: Fungi & yeast love carbohydrates. Hence you can balance your intake of sweets or carbohydrate-rich foods to slow down fungal growth.
3. Weak Immune System: People who have a compromised immune system are always at a higher risk of developing Fungal Acne.
4. Wearing Tight Clothes: Regularly wearing clothes that are super tight and considered to be nonbreathable can encourage extra sweat and moisture. All of this can foster a skin environment that can be friendly to yeast growth.
5. Medication: In case you are already on antibiotics then the bacteria on your skin can be reduced which allows for the overgrowth of a fungus.

Where Does Fungal Acne Usually Develop?

The condition is most often observed in areas of the body where there is high sebum output. Also, it is more present in humid climates.

What Are the Treatment Options for Fungal Acne?

Topical treatments can be used to resolve the condition. Oral antifungal medications are usually more efficient in treating this condition.

Can Fungal Acne Re-Appear?

Yes, unfortunately, recurrence is very common even after successful treatment. Usually, after complete treatment, a weekly schedule of applying a topical treatment is recommended that prevents the condition from re-appearing.

In case you are dealing with Fungal Acne and would need guidance on the same, you may contact Dr. Jaspreet at +91- 8826141232