Acne is a common problem that has a very specific treatment plan when addressed medically. Often times, this can prove difficult to treat. Fungal Acne in particular can be a tough one to get rid of.
Fungal acne, also known as Pityrosporum Folliculitis or Malassezia Folliculitis, is a common skin condition. Caused primarily, by an overgrowth of yeast-like fungi on the skin. Different from Acne Vulgaris, which is caused by bacteria (Propionibacterium acnes), fungal acne is triggered by a specific type of yeast overgrowth called Malassezia. This yeast is naturally present in the skin and doesn’t usually cause a problem. As with all fungal infections, it is an environmentally stimulated condition. This means that certain factors may encourage the growth of the Malassezia yeast in the skin. These include occlusive clothing, humidity, sweating, heat, and prolonged use of topical anti-biotics or corticosteroids.
How do we identify it?
Fungal acne typically appears as small, itchy bumps or pustules on the skin, often resembling bacterial acne. Fungal acne lesions are often uniform in size and shape, and they may cluster together in areas such as the forehead, chest, back, shoulders, or hairline. They can, however, appear anywhere on the body. These lesions are red bumps (papules) or white heads (pustules) between one to two millimetres in size. Another thing that sets them apart from bacterial acne is that they appear in waves and are often far more itchy than bacterial acne.
It’s common for the two types of acne to be confused because they are both caused by an infection in the hair follicles and both lead to a breakout of pimples in the skin.
How do we treat it?
Fungal acne is typically treated with antifungal medications, either topical or oral, depending on the severity of the condition. Topical treatments may include antifungal creams, lotions, or washes containing ingredients like ketoconazole, selenium sulfide, or zinc pyrithione. Oral antifungal medications may be prescribed for more severe or widespread cases of fungal acne. It is widely believed that oral antifungals work best as they can treat deep into the hair follicle where topical creams may not reach. Commonly prescribed antifungals include fluconazole and itraconazole.
Prevention is better than cure.
To prevent fungal acne, it’s essential to maintain good hygiene and avoid factors that contribute to fungal overgrowth. Showering regularly, especially after sweating, wearing loose, breathable clothing, and avoiding occlusive skincare products or heavy moisturizers are all good ways to assist in the prevention of fungal acne. Other ways to prevent fungal acne include only using well maintained and clean hot tubs and pools, wash your bathing suit and let it dry completely between uses.
DermaFix to the rescue!
The following products are recommended for use if you are prone to fungal acne on the face, neck and décolleté:
DermaFix MD Mandelic Cleanser – A powerful cleanser that gently exfoliates, incorporating Niacinamide for anti-inflammatory, and skin calming properties.
DermaFix MD Mandelic Toner – A balancing and refreshing toner designed to gently exfoliate, cleanse and refresh the skin assisting to keep fungal acne at bay.
DermaFix DermaBright – Mandelic Acid is naturally anti-fungal making this exfoliating corrective a must have in any skin care routine for those prone to fungal acne.
DermaFix DermaPolish with Activated Charcoal – Deep cleansing, purifying, detoxifying for a superior exfoliation with enzymes and Activated Charcoal.
DermaFix MD Skin Clear – A niacinamide concentrate utilizing Black Currant Leaf Extract and Raspberry Leaf Extract for the prevention of acne, inflammation and hyperpigmentation in the skin.
DermaFix B3 Booster – This Niacinamide rich booster will assist with the repairing and maintaining of a healthy skin barrier allowing the skin microbiome to be balanced preventing the overgrowth of Malassezia yeast in the skin.
DermaFix DermaShield SPF 40 – SANS Approved Broad Spectrum UVA/UVB/HEV light protection sunscreen with zinc oxide for additional benefits against fungal acne.
Clarifine Clay Masque – A Kaolin and Bentonite Clay based masque utilizing Tea Tree and Lavender for anti-fungal properties making this a perfect masque for use on skin prone to fungal acne.
If you suspect you have fungal acne or are experiencing persistent skin concerns, it’s essential to consult with a dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.
For more information please contact us at DermaFix Head Office on 0861 28 23 23 or enquiries@dermafix.co.za
