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The Sneaky Truth About Fungal Acne: Causes, Symptoms, and Effective Treatments

Fungal acne is a mysterious skin condition that can masquerade as regular acne, but refuses to respond to traditional treatments. It’s a frustrating and persistent problem that can lead to further skin irritation and frustration. But don’t worry, we’ve got the inside scoop on what causes fungal acne, how to identify it, and the best treatments to banish it for good.

What is Fungal Acne?

Fungal acne, also known as Malassezia folliculitis or Pityrosporum folliculitis, occurs when the hair follicles on your skin become inflamed. This inflammation is caused by an overgrowth of a type of yeast called Malassezia, which is normally present on the skin. While most people can keep this yeast in check, some individuals may experience an overproduction of Malassezia, leading to fungal acne.

Causes of Fungal Acne

So, what triggers this pesky yeast to go into overdrive? According to dermatologists, fungal acne is more common in people who:

• Engage in sweaty activities
• Have oily skin with high sebum levels
• Use greasy moisturizers and sunscreens that clog pores
• Take antibiotics or steroids
• Live in hot and humid environments

Symptoms of Fungal Acne

Fungal acne typically appears as itchy, red or discolored bumps on the chest, back, and upper arms, although it can also show up on the face. Unlike regular acne, fungal acne pimples tend to look alike and are often accompanied by inflammation.

Best Treatments for Fungal Acne

Fortunately, there are effective treatments available to combat fungal acne. Here are our top picks:

• Over-the-Counter (OTC) Treatments: Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo and Head and Shoulders Clinical Strength Dandruff and Seborrheic Dermatitis Shampoo are two OTC options that contain ketoconazole, a powerful antifungal ingredient.
• Prescription Pills: Fluconazole (Diflucan) is an oral antifungal medication that can be prescribed by a dermatologist for severe cases of fungal acne.
• Prescription Topical Creams: Ketoconazole topical cream is a prescription-strength treatment that can be applied directly to the affected area.
• Moisturizers: TULA Skincare Breakout Star Oil-Free Acne Moisturizer and MELÉ Plump It Up Nourishing Cream are two oil-free moisturizers that won’t clog pores and can help soothe fungal acne-prone skin.
• Wipes: Cetaphil Face and Body Wipes and Clearasil Rapid Rescue Deep Treatment Pads are two gentle, oil-free wipes that can help prevent fungal acne by removing sweat and bacteria from the skin.

Preventing Fungal Acne

While treatment is essential, prevention is also key. Here are some tips to help you prevent fungal acne:

• Shower immediately after working out
• Wear sweat-wicking fabrics and loose clothing
• Avoid using oily products that can clog pores
• Use gentle, oil-free cleansers and moisturizers

When to See a Dermatologist

If you suspect you have fungal acne, it’s essential to consult with a dermatologist to get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. They can help determine the severity of your condition and recommend the best course of action.

Remember, fungal acne may require patience and persistence, but with the right treatment and prevention strategies, you can say goodbye to this frustrating skin condition for good.