What Is Fungal Acne? Understanding the Causes, Symptoms, and Best Treatments : Insights from Halifax’s Inclusive Luxury Beauty Brand and Skincare Experts
When it comes to skincare, the term "acne" often brings to mind the typical blemishes caused by clogged pores and excess oil. However, there’s a lesser-known skin condition that mimics traditional acne but requires a different approach to treatment—fungal acne. If you're experiencing persistent breakouts or irritation that doesn't seem to respond to your usual skincare routine, it might be time to consider whether fungal acne could be the culprit.
In this blog, we’ll dive deep into what fungal acne is, how it differs from regular acne, and the best treatments to manage and prevent it. If you're ready to clear up your skin and get back to feeling confident, keep reading!
What Is Fungal Acne?
Fungal acne is not actually a form of acne at all, though its appearance can be quite similar. Officially known as Malassezia folliculitis, fungal acne occurs when an overgrowth of yeast—specifically Malassezia, a type of yeast naturally found on the skin—infects the hair follicles. This leads to the formation of small, itchy bumps that resemble acne but are caused by a fungal infection rather than a bacterial one.
Unlike regular acne, which is caused by clogged pores due to excess oil and dead skin cells, fungal acne thrives in areas of the skin that are warm, oily, and moist. This makes it more common in places like the forehead, chest, back, and shoulders.
Fungal Acne vs. Regular Acne: Key Differences
One of the biggest challenges with fungal acne is how easily it can be confused with traditional acne. However, there are distinct differences between the two:
Appearance: Fungal acne typically presents as small, uniform bumps, often with a whitehead, and can appear in clusters. Traditional acne, on the other hand, can range from blackheads to cystic lesions and often varies in size and shape.
Itchiness: Fungal acne is often itchy, whereas regular acne tends to be more painful or inflamed.
Location: While regular acne can occur anywhere on the face and body, fungal acne is most common in areas that sweat a lot—like the forehead, chest, and back.
Causes: Regular acne is caused by clogged pores and excess sebum production, whereas fungal acne is caused by an overgrowth of yeast in the hair follicles.
Causes of Fungal Acne
Several factors can contribute to the development of fungal acne. These include:
Excessive Sweat: Fungal acne thrives in warm, moist environments, making sweating—whether from exercise, hot weather, or humidity—a major contributor.
Oily Skin: Overproduction of oil on the skin can create a breeding ground for Malassezia yeast, leading to fungal acne.
Use of Oily Skincare Products: Heavy, oil-based skincare or makeup products can clog pores and worsen fungal acne.
Antibiotic Use: Antibiotics can disrupt the balance of bacteria on the skin, allowing fungi to proliferate.
Tight Clothing: Wearing tight, synthetic clothing that traps sweat and moisture can increase the likelihood of fungal acne.
How to Treat Fungal Acne: Top Tips for Clear Skin
If you think you may be dealing with fungal acne, the first step is to adjust your skincare routine to address the underlying cause. Here are the best ways to treat and prevent fungal acne:
1. Use Anti-Fungal Skincare Products
Look for products that contain antifungal ingredients such as selenium sulfide, ketoconazole, or zinc pyrithione. These ingredients can help reduce the overgrowth of Malassezia yeast on the skin. Keita Beauty offers a range of skincare products designed to balance and protect your skin, including those that help regulate oil production and prevent fungal flare-ups.
2. Switch to Non-Comedogenic Skincare
Avoid products that are overly greasy or contain heavy oils. Opt for non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores) and oil-free skincare to prevent fungal acne from worsening. Keita Beauty’s lightweight serums and moisturizers are perfect for maintaining hydration without contributing to excess oil on the skin.
3. Cleanse Regularly, Especially After Sweating
Maintaining a regular skincare routine is essential to managing fungal acne. Use a gentle, antifungal cleanser to help control the yeast overgrowth. It’s also important to cleanse your skin after sweating to prevent fungal buildup.
4. Exfoliate with Caution
Gentle exfoliation can help remove dead skin cells and prevent clogged pores, but be cautious not to over-exfoliate, as this can irritate the skin and worsen fungal acne. Opt for gentle chemical exfoliants like AHAs or BHAs rather than harsh physical scrubs.
5. Wear Breathable, Moisture-Wicking Fabrics
If you’re prone to fungal acne on your back or chest, wearing breathable, moisture-wicking clothing can help reduce the chances of sweat and bacteria buildup. Choose fabrics like cotton or moisture-wicking activewear to keep your skin dry.
6. Maintain a Healthy Diet
While there is no direct connection between diet and fungal acne, maintaining a balanced, anti-inflammatory diet can help support healthy skin overall. Avoiding excess sugar and refined carbs may help balance your skin's oil production and support your antifungal treatments.
Keita Beauty's Recommended Products for Fungal Acne
At Keita Beauty, we understand the importance of addressing the unique needs of your skin. For those dealing with fungal acne, our product lineup includes options that help to balance oil production, control breakouts, and restore your skin’s natural barrier.
Keita Beauty Clarifying Gel Cleanser: A gentle yet effective cleanser with antifungal properties that removes excess oil and impurities without irritating the skin.
Keita Beauty Hydrating Serum: A lightweight serum that hydrates the skin without clogging pores, perfect for balancing moisture without triggering fungal acne.
Keita Beauty Soothing Moisturizer: A non-comedogenic moisturizer that helps maintain hydration and skin barrier health while minimizing the risk of fungal outbreaks.
Preventing Fungal Acne: Ongoing Care
The best way to manage fungal acne is to prevent it in the first place. Here are a few tips to help keep your skin clear:
Keep your skin dry: After sweating or showering, pat your skin dry with a clean towel to avoid moisture buildup.
Choose breathable fabrics: This can reduce friction and help wick away sweat from your skin.
Stay consistent with your skincare: Regular cleansing and treatment with antifungal products can help prevent fungal acne flare-ups.
Final Thoughts
Fungal acne can be frustrating, but with the right approach, it’s completely treatable. By understanding the causes, symptoms, and effective treatments for fungal acne, you can achieve clearer, healthier skin. At Keita Beauty, we’re committed to providing products that help you care for your skin in the best way possible. Whether you’re dealing with fungal acne or other skin concerns, our product range is designed to promote healthy, glowing skin for everyone.
