Is Fungal Acne Really Acne?
Sometimes persistent pimples aren't what you think...here's how to tell.
Published:
3 minute read
Spoiler alert: there’s no such thing as fungal acne. The term is a simple way to describe an infection of the hair follicles that causes acne-like bumps — but it’s technically not acne. Instead, it's an overgrowth of a yeast called Malassezia that's found naturally on the surface of your skin. This yeast feeds on sebum trapped within the pores. The condition is sometimes called Pityrosporum folliculitis or Malassezia folliculitis.
Fungal acne is often misdiagnosed as acne vulgaris — so it’s probably more common than is documented. Here’s how to tell if your “acne” is actually a fungal infection, and what to do about it.
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What causes fungal acne?
Typically, your skin is able to keep the Malassezia yeast under control — but it can flourish under certain conditions:
- Excessive moisture: humid weather, sweaty clothes, and tight-fitting clothing can encourage growth of the fungus.
- Medication: taking antibiotics can upset the balance of your skin’s microbiome, allowing fungus to flourish.
- Diet: processed foods high in sugar and carbohydrates promote yeast overgrowth.
- Immune deficiency: people with compromised immune systems are more susceptible to fungal acne.
What does fungal acne look like?
Because the pimples resemble whiteheads, folliculitis is often mistaken for bacterial acne. Here’s how to tell the difference between bacterial and fungal acne:
- Size: bumps are generally uniform in size and shape, without much variation.
- Itching: fungal acne often itches, whereas bacterial acne does not.
- Clusters: while bacterial acne pimples are often solitary, fungal acne often appears in group clusters.
- Color: fungal bumps are redder than typical inflammatory acne.
Skin conditions that look like fungal acne
Folliculitis can often be confused with other skin conditions that cause similar acne-like lesions. Here are some common skin issues that can be mistaken for fungal acne:
- Acne vulgaris: presents with pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads. Can often be treated with over-the-counter ingredients like benzoyl peroxide. Try: SLMD Acne System, Body Acne System.
- Ingrown hairs: appear as red, inflamed bumps caused by hairs growing back into the skin, often mistaken for acne or folliculitis. They can be prevented with regular exfoliation. Try: SLMD Body Smoothing System, BP Acne Spot Treatment.
- Milia: Small, white cysts that form under the skin surface, often around the eyes or on the cheeks. They are non-inflammatory and usually clear up on their own without the need for treatment, though chemical exfoliants can help. Try: SLMD SA Acne Spot Treatment, AHA/BHA Swipes, Retinol Resurfacing Serum.
- Contact dermatitis: red, itchy bumps from exposure to irritants or allergens. Typically requires treatments that address inflammation and allergens.
Dr. Pimple Popper's Body Acne & Ingrown Hair Solutions
How do you treat fungal acne?
Using traditional acne remedies like benzoyl peroxide to treat fungal acne won’t help. If you’re positive your acne is fungal (consult a dermatologist to be sure), there are several ways you can treat it:
- Lifestyle changes: showering more frequently and wearing loose-fitting clothes can help alleviate the problem.
- Dandruff shampoo: if your folliculitis is on the body, try using shampoo containing pyrithione zinc or selenium sulfide a few times per week as a body wash.
- Over-the-counter antifungal medication: athlete’s foot and jock itch creams and ointments containing antifungals like clotrimazole can also work for fungal acne.
- Prescription antifungal medication: if your fungal acne is persistent, your dermatologist can prescribe an oral antifungal medication like fluconazole.
How to prevent folliculitis
To keep fungal acne in check long term, follow these guidelines:
- Use dandruff shampoo as a body wash once a week or so.
- Eat a balanced diet that’s not too high in sugar and processed carbs.
- Shower daily, and after working out or sweating.
- Wear loose fitting clothing made of breathable fabrics like cotton
Dr. Lee's Last Word
When treating acne — or any skin condition, it’s important to understand the cause. Our skin contains its own microbiome that exists in a delicate balance. While true acne is caused by an overgrowth of bacteria, I also see patients with acne-like breakouts triggered by yeast. It looks a little different, and should be suspected if your acne doesn’t resolve with regular treatments. The good news is that it’s very treatable once we identify it.
