Fungal acne (technically known as pityrosporum folliculitis) is a skin condition that looks very similar to regular acne.
Fungal acne is caused by an overgrowth of a yeast-like fungus called malassezia.
In general, fungal acne rash appears as small pink or red pimples that sometimes have pus in them.
Using a cleanser for fungal acne is important because it removes excess oil and dead skin cells, and when choosing one, look for ingredients like sulfur, salicylic acid, and tea tree oil.
Exfoliating helps to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores for those with fungal acne, and when choosing an exfoliator, look for gentle chemical exfoliants like AHAs or BHAs.
The treatment step in a fungal acne skin care routine involves using antifungal products with active ingredients such as retinols, alpha hydroxy acids, beta hydroxy acids and vitamin C to target the fungal overgrowth and promote healing.
Moisturizing is important for fungal acne to prevent dryness and irritation; choose a fungal acne safe moisturizer with ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, or niacinamide.
It is important to use sunscreen for fungal acne to protect the skin from further damage, and when choosing a sunscreen, look for a fungal acne safe sunscreen with non-comedogenic ingredients.
Ingredients to avoid for fungal acne include oils, fatty acids, and esters, as well as ingredients like coconut oil, cocoa butter, and lanolin that can promote fungal growth.