Today, let’s dive into fungal acne what it looks like, why it
happens, and how to treat it.
What is fungal acne?
Fungal acne is caused by a yeast called Malassezia , a type of yeast normally present on healthy skin, particularly on the back and shoulders, though it can appear anywhere. Under certain conditions, it enters hair follicles and causes infection.
Why Do You Get Fungal Acne?
Several factors can lead to fungal acne:
1. Steroid Use: Steroids lower the body’s immunity, allowing the yeast to grow unchecked, leading to fungal acne.
2. Immunosuppressants: These medications, often used for autoimmune conditions, reduce the skin’s ability to fight infections, increasing the risk of fungal overgrowth.
3. Antibiotics: Long-term use of antibiotics kills off beneficial bacteria on the skin, disrupting the balance of microflora and making it easier for fungi to grow.
4. Dandruff or Seborrheic Dermatitis: Individuals with these conditions produce a type of oil that promotes the growth of fungi, often leading to flaking and redness around the nose, beard area, eyelids, eyelashes, and scalp.
5. Hot, Humid Climates: Sweat in such climates alters the skin’s microflora, encouraging fungal growth.
How Does Fungal Acne Look?
It’s tricky to differentiate fungal acne from regular acne, or acne vulgaris. Fungal acne presents as small, uniform red bumps typically found on the forehead, around the nose, mouth, upper back, and sometimes the chest. It lacks the whiteheads and blackheads that are common with acne vulgaris. If you’re unsure, it’s best to consult a dermatologist to get an accurate diagnosis.
How to Treat Fungal Acne
First, don’t self-diagnose. Fungal acne requires professional diagnosis for the right treatment plan. Once diagnosed, there are several steps you can take:
• Avoid Oils: Don’t apply hair oil, as it can promote fungal overgrowth. Shampoo every 2–3 days to reduce oil production on the scalp, which can drip down onto your face.
• Wear Cotton Clothing: Stick to breathable fabrics, especially if the fungal acne appears on your chest or back. Synthetic fabrics trap sweat, increasing fungal growth.
• Keep Skin Dry: Always change out of sweaty clothes immediately after exercising or being in the sun. Prolonged contact with sweat raises the chances of fungal infections.
• Proper Hygiene: Make sure clothes, especially undergarments, are properly ironed, as are towels. This reduces the chances of fungal recurrence.
Medical Treatment
In clinical settings, antifungal medications like fluconazole, itraconazole, or ketoconazole are often prescribed based on the type and severity of the infection. Topical treatments like ketoconazole shampoos or salicylic acid can help control oil production and fungal overgrowth.
For fungal acne on the back and chest, sulfur lotions are effective when applied at night. Other antifungal medications like zinc pyrithione or ciclopirox are commonly prescribed for application and rinsing after 15–20 minutes. Creams containing miconazole are often used on the face.
The choice of treatment depends on the location and severity of the fungal acne, so it’s essential to consult a dermatologist before starting any treatment.
Final Thoughts
It’s crucial to differentiate fungal acne from acne vulgaris because the treatments are different. Fungal acne can often flare up when being treated for acne vulgaris, and that’s when it’s time to consult a dermatologist. If you suspect fungal acne, don’t self-treat—get a proper diagnosis and the right treatment plan.
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