is an infection of hair follicles caused by an overgrowth of yeast on the skin, leading to small, itchy bumps that resemble acne. Unlike typical acne, it doesn’t respond to traditional acne treatments and often requires antifungal medications.
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What is it?
Fungal acne, or Malassezia folliculitis, is an infection in hair follicles that’s often confused with common acne. It causes clusters of small, itchy, red bumps on your skin.
The difference between common acne and fungal acne: Common acne or (Acne Vulgaris) is caused when oils, bacteria, and dead skin block the hair follicle while fungal acne is caused by a fungal infection in the hair follicle. Fungal acne is also itchy while the common acne isn’t.
Anyone can get fungal acne. It’s most common in adolescents and young adult males, who tend to have oily skin where yeast thrive. The yeast also grows quickly on hot, damp or sweaty skin.
The condition is also more likely to occur in people who:
Live in a hot, humid climate.
Have a weakened immune system.
Have other fungal infections in their body.
Sweat a lot (hyperhidrosis).
Use a lot of oil-based moisturizers and sunscreens.
