Malassezia yeast fungus causes hair follicle infection giving rise to fungal acne. This skin issue is quite common and is also called Malassezia folliculitis or Pityrosporum folliculitis.
The skin develops clusters of papules, tiny, irritating, red pimples caused by a fungus. Sometimes the lumps become a little bigger and develop into whiteheads, small pustules filled with either white or yellow pus.
It’s crucial to comprehend the appearance and onset of fungal acne. Keep reading to learn the causes of fungal acne, symptoms, and ways to treat breakouts.
Causes of fungal acne
The term “fungal acne” is quite misleading. Bacteria and oil in pores don’t cause fungal acne, yet sebum and oil production play a significant role in bacterial growth. Here are some of the common fungal acne causes that you must know.
Trapped moisture
Long-term use of sweaty training attire might promote yeast development. If you reuse your workout clothing without washing them, a fungus that has developed in the garments may infect your skin.
Use of antibiotics or steroids
The long-term use of antibiotics or topical steroids can change the balance of bacteria and fungus on the skin, resulting in an overgrowth of Malassezia and the emergence of fungal acne.
Diet
Even though the connection between food and the onset of fungal acne is not entirely known, some studies indicate that eating a lot of sugar or dairy products may worsen the problem.
Medication
The presence of bacteria on the skin may be decreased by taking antibiotics. That could encourage a fungus to grow too much.
Suppressed immune system
The likelihood of developing fungal acne may be higher in people with weakened immune systems.
Wearing tight clothes
Wearing unbreathable clothing often might lead to increased sweating and wetness. This could encourage a skin condition where yeast can develop quickly.
Symptoms of fungal acne
Fungal acne on the face resembles bacterial acne, in appearance, which is a reason why it may persist. The fungal acne symptoms include:
Very itchy skin
Your skin starts to irritate, which becomes itchy and causes discomfort.
Spots on your back, neck, chest, and arms
Fungal acne often leaves spots on various parts of your body.
Clusters of small red bumps
Small red bumps that mostly look like acne form on the skin.
Irritated hair follicles
Irritation or itchiness on the hair follicles can give rise to fungal acne.
How to treat fungal acne?
The conventional antibacterial and anti-inflammatory acne therapies will not work on this problem since Malassezia furfur, a yeast, is the cause of it. Anti-fungal and anti-yeast medications are required. Common fungal acne treatment include:
Oral antifungal medication
Oral anti-fungal drugs function by either destroying existing fungal cells or stopping their development. This medicine is consumed orally as directed by your doctor. Oral acne medicine has the advantage of being quick and highly effective.
Prescription topical antifungal creams
Your doctor may suggest a stronger anti-fungal cream for acne if over-the-counter remedies do not help your fungal acne. To minimise the proliferation of yeast on the skin, ketoconazole 2%, administered twice daily for two to three weeks, is frequently given.
Diet adjustments
Restricting the consumption of refined sugar and white flour, which encourage yeast growth, is a critical component of an anti-fungal diet.
Antifungal shampoo or body wash
The development of the fungi that cause infection can be slowed down with anti-fungal body wash and shampoo. Most fungal acne products are available without a prescription; however, some might.
Conclusion
Fungal acne is a condition that results from the overgrowth of yeast in hair follicles. Unlike traditional acne that leads to the formation of whiteheads and blackheads, it presents differently. As a result, conventional anti-acne therapies are ineffective in treating fungal acne. Therefore, accurately identifying this type of infection is crucial in determining the appropriate treatment. Familiarising yourself with the specific symptoms of fungal acne can also aid in preventing future occurrences.
Are you looking for an effective treatment for fungal acne? Ova’s medical professionals are now here to create personalised treatment safely and efficiently.
FAQs related to fungal acne
Can fungal acne come back?
Typically, topical fungal acne cream and oral anti-fungal medications effectively treat fungal acne. However, it’s worth noting that this type of acne can reoccur even after successful treatment.
How long does fungal acne take to clear?
In most cases, fungal acne resolves within two to three weeks. Nevertheless, a more potent prescription may be necessary if symptoms persist for over a month.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The information contained herein is not a substitute for and should never be relied upon for professional medical advice. Book a consultation with Ova Singapore’s medical team to learn more about reproductive healthcare treatments here.