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What is Fungal Acne?
Fungal acne, also known as pityrosporum folliculitis, is a skin condition caused by a type of fungus known as Malassezia. The fungus, which is commonly found on the skin, can cause a variety of symptoms including inflammation, whiteheads, pustules and itching. In severe cases, the affected area can become swollen, red and even leave behind scars.
How is Fungal Acne Different From Regular Acne?
Fungal acne is different from regular acne in several ways. The most obvious difference is that while regular acne is caused by bacteria, fungal acne is caused by fungus.
Additionally, regular acne is usually treated with antibiotics, while fungal acne is usually treated with antifungal medications. It is important to note that while regular acne may fade on its own, fungal acne is typically resistant to most over-the-counter treatments.
What are Symptoms of Fungal Acne?
The most common symptom of fungal acne is small red bumps or whiteheads that resemble pimples. Other symptoms include itching, burning, and redness in the affected area. In some cases, the bumps may become filled with pus, which can become sore or painful.
How is Fungal Acne Diagnosed?
Fungal acne is typically diagnosed by a doctor through physical examination. In some cases, a skin swab may be taken and examined under a microscope to confirm the presence of Malassezia.
What are the Treatment Options?
The most common treatments for fungal acne are antifungal medications and topical ointments. Oral antifungal medications such as fluconazole and itraconazole are often prescribed, while topical creams and lotions containing clotrimazole, ketokonazole, or miconazole are also effective.
How Can I Prevent Fungal Acne?
There are several steps you can take to prevent fungal acne. First, try to keep your skin clean and dry, as this helps prevent the growth of fungus. Additionally, avoid touching or popping any pimples, as this could lead to an infection. Finally, be sure to remove all makeup and wash your face before going to bed at night.
Key Takeaways:
- Fungal acne is a skin condition caused by a type of fungus called Malassezia.
- Fungal acne is different from regular acne, as it is typically treated with antifungal medications.
- Common symptoms of fungal acne include small red bumps and whiteheads, itching, and burning in the affected area.
- Fungal acne is typically diagnosed through physical examination and confirmed with a skin swab.
- The most common treatments for fungal acne are antifungal medications and topical ointments.
- To prevent fungal acne, it is important to keep your skin clean and dry, avoid touching or popping any pimples, and wash your face before going to bed.
In conclusion, fungal acne is a skin condition caused by the fungus Malassezia and is usually treated with antifungal medications. Common symptoms include small red bumps and whiteheads, itching, and burning in the affected area. Fungal acne can be prevented by keeping the skin clean and dry, avoiding touching or popping any pimples, and washing your face before going to bed.
