How to Get Rid of Fungal Acne?

November 26, 2025 5:06 pm

Fungal acne can be frustrating, confusing, and stubborn. Many people deal with tiny bumps on the skin that do not seem to go away no matter how many new products they try. You might switch cleansers, exfoliate more often, or add fancy serums, yet the bumps stay in the same place and keep coming back. The truth is that fungal acne is not the same as regular acne, so it needs a different approach. The good news is that once you understand what it is and what triggers it, you can manage it and clear your skin.

This guide explains fungal acne in simple words. You will learn what causes it, what it looks like, and most importantly how to get rid of it. The goal is to help you take control of your skin without complicated jargon.

 

What Is Fungal Acne

Many people are surprised to learn that fungal acne is not really acne at all. Acne usually happens when pores are clogged with oil, bacteria, or dead skin cells. Fungal acne comes from yeast, which is a type of fungus that naturally lives on the skin. The most common yeast responsible for this condition is called Malassezia. Under normal conditions, Malassezia does not cause problems. However, when it grows too much, it leads to inflammation and small itchy bumps. This condition is officially known as Malassezia folliculitis.

Since fungal acne is caused by yeast, it does not respond well to typical acne treatments. That is why many people try benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid for months without improvement. Understanding the difference is the first step toward getting rid of it.

 

What Causes Fungal Acne

There are several factors that make yeast grow too much on the skin. Knowing these triggers can help you make better choices and prevent future breakouts.

Excess Sweat

Yeast loves warm, moist environments. If you sweat a lot or wear tight clothing that traps moisture, fungal acne can develop easily. Workouts, humid weather, or long hours in synthetic fabrics can make things worse.

High Oil Levels on the Skin

Malassezia feeds on certain oils. If your skin is naturally oily or you use heavy products that contain fatty acids, the yeast can multiply quickly.

Hot and Humid Climates

People who live in tropical or humid locations tend to get fungal acne more often. The warmth and moisture create the perfect environment for yeast overgrowth.

Antibiotics

Taking antibiotics for long periods can change the balance of bacteria and yeast in the body. When bacteria decrease, yeast can grow more easily.

Compromised Immune System

People with weakened immune systems may experience an imbalance in their natural skin flora, which can lead to fungal acne.

 

What Fungal Acne Looks Like

Fungal acne is often mistaken for regular acne or heat rash. Understanding the difference helps you choose the right treatment.

Here are the most common signs:

• Small uniform bumps often in clusters
• Itching or irritation
• Breakouts in areas where you sweat the most such as the forehead, back, chest, and shoulders
• Bumps that do not respond to normal acne products
• Skin that gets worse after sweating

The bumps are usually about the same size and can look like tiny pimples. Unlike regular acne, fungal acne does not usually form deep painful cysts.

 

How to Tell the Difference Between Fungal Acne and Regular Acne

A few quick points can help you figure out what you are dealing with.

It Itches

Regular acne rarely itches. If your bumps feel itchy, fungal acne is more likely.

All the Bumps Look the Same

Regular acne can include whiteheads, blackheads, papules, or cysts in different sizes. Fungal acne bumps are almost always uniform.

It Appears in Sweat Prone Areas

If most of your bumps are on your forehead, chest, back, or shoulders, yeast may be the cause.

Acne Treatments Do Not Work

If you have tried typical acne products for weeks or months without improvement, the issue might be fungal.

If you are still unsure, a dermatologist can diagnose the condition through a simple skin exam.

 

How to Get Rid of Fungal Acne

Now that you know what fungal acne is, let us talk about solutions. The good news is that fungal acne is treatable, especially when you use the right approach.

The key is to reduce yeast, limit moisture buildup, and avoid ingredients that feed the fungus. Below are the most effective ways to clear fungal acne.

Step 1: Use an Antifungal Wash

One of the easiest and most effective starting points is using an antifungal cleanser. Since fungal acne is caused by yeast, antifungal ingredients target the root of the problem.

Many people use a dandruff shampoo as a body or face wash because the active ingredients fight yeast.

Common antifungal ingredients include:

• Ketoconazole
• Selenium sulfide
• Zinc pyrithione

You can apply the wash to the affected area, leave it on for a few minutes, then rinse. Using it a few times a week can help calm the bumps and control future growth.

Step 2: Use a Topical Antifungal Cream

If the bumps are stubborn, topical creams can help. Look for over the counter antifungal creams that contain ingredients such as:

• Clotrimazole
• Miconazole
• Ketoconazole

Apply a thin layer to the affected area once or twice daily. Consistency is important. Most people see improvement in a few weeks.

Step 3: Keep the Skin Dry and Cool

Yeast loves moisture. Anything you can do to keep your skin cool and dry will help control fungal acne.

Here are a few habits that help:

• Shower immediately after sweating
• Change out of damp clothes quickly
• Wear loose clothing made from breathable fabrics
• Use moisture wicking materials when working out
• Avoid sleeping in sweaty clothes or pajamas

Simple lifestyle changes can make a big difference in preventing flare ups.

Step 4: Avoid Heavy or Oily Skincare Products

Malassezia feeds on certain oils and fatty acids. If your skincare routine is full of buttery creams or rich lotions, they can make fungal acne worse.

Avoid products that contain:

• Coconut oil
• Olive oil
• Shea butter
• Mineral oil
• Esters and fatty acids that feed yeast

Instead, choose lightweight, water based, or gel based products. Look for labels that say non comedogenic or oil free.

Step 5: Exfoliate Gently

Exfoliating helps remove dead skin and unclog the hair follicles that yeast can grow in. However, do not over exfoliate because irritation can make things worse.

Use a gentle exfoliant once or twice a week. Products with salicylic acid or lactic acid can help, but keep in mind that these do not kill yeast. They simply help clean the surface.

Step 6: Use Oral Antifungal Medication for Severe Cases

If your fungal acne is widespread or does not improve with topical treatments, a dermatologist may prescribe oral antifungal medication. These treatments work internally to control yeast and can clear breakouts faster.

Common oral treatments include:

• Fluconazole
• Itraconazole

These medications should only be taken under medical supervision because they can have side effects.

Step 7: Wash Clothes and Bedding More Often

Since fungal acne is linked to moisture and sweat, it helps to wash items that touch your skin frequently.

• Wash workout clothes after every use
• Change pillowcases often
• Keep sheets clean
• Avoid using heavy fabric softeners that leave residue

Clean fabrics help reduce the buildup of sweat and yeast on your skin.

Step 8: Improve Overall Hygiene After Workouts

If you sweat heavily or exercise often, simple habits can keep fungal acne under control.

• Shower right after exercising
• Use an antifungal body wash during your shower
• Pat your skin dry instead of rubbing it
• Wear clean clothes every time you work out

These steps limit the warm moist environment that yeast needs.

Step 9: Adjust Your Diet if Needed

Diet alone does not cause fungal acne, but reducing high sugar foods may help some people. Yeast thrives in sugary environments inside the body as well. Some people notice fewer flare ups when they limit:

• Sugary snacks
• Refined carbs
• Sweetened drinks
• Alcohol

Focus on whole foods, plenty of water, and balanced meals. While diet is not a cure, a healthier lifestyle supports better skin overall.

Step 10: Know Which Ingredients Are Safe for Fungal Acne

Because fungal acne reacts strongly to certain ingredients, many people choose fungal acne safe skincare. These products do not contain oils or fatty acids that feed yeast.

Ingredients that are generally safe include:

• Hyaluronic acid
• Niacinamide
• Aloe vera
• Green tea extract
• Ceramides (in some cases)
• Light gel moisturizers

If you like to check products before buying, there are online tools that help you find out whether a product is fungal acne safe.

Step 11: Manage Stress Levels

Stress does not directly cause fungal acne, but it can make the skin more sensitive and reactive. When the body is stressed, the immune system does not work as smoothly, and this can trigger flare ups.

Try to include calming habits in your routine such as:

• Deep breathing
• Walking outdoors
• Adequate sleep
• Short breaks during the day
• Stretching or yoga

These habits help balance your body and may reduce skin irritation.

Step 12: Avoid Overusing Antibiotics and Steroid Creams

Antibiotics can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria and yeast on your skin. If yeast has more space to grow, fungal acne can develop. Use antibiotics only when prescribed and avoid unnecessary long term use.

Steroid creams can also make fungal acne worse if used often. They weaken the skin barrier and encourage yeast growth. If you suspect your bumps started after using a steroid cream, talk to a dermatologist.

 

How Long Does It Take to Clear Fungal Acne

Every person’s skin is different, but most people notice improvement within two to six weeks when using antifungal treatments consistently. If the bumps have been there for a long time or if the condition is severe, it may take a bit longer.

The key is patience and consistency. You may not see dramatic results overnight, but steady improvement is a good sign.

 

How to Prevent Fungal Acne From Coming Back

Once you manage to clear fungal acne, you want to keep it from returning. Since yeast is always present on the skin, prevention is important.

Here are helpful long term habits:

• Do not skip showers after sweating
• Wear breathable clothing whenever possible
• Use an antifungal wash once or twice a week for maintenance
• Choose lightweight skincare products
• Avoid heavy oils on the face and body
• Replace old loofahs or washcloths often
• Keep your hair clean, especially if you sweat a lot

These small habits make it harder for yeast to overgrow.

 

When to See a Dermatologist

It is completely normal to try home care first, but there are times when medical guidance is helpful. See a dermatologist if:

• Your bumps do not improve after several weeks of antifungal treatments
• The breakouts keep coming back
• You are unsure whether the bumps are fungal acne or another skin condition
• The area becomes painful, swollen, or infected

Dermatologists can perform tests, offer stronger treatments, and help you build a skin routine that works for your skin type.

 

Conclusion

Fungal acne can be annoying and confusing, especially when typical acne products seem to do nothing. The key to clearing it is understanding that it comes from yeast, not bacteria. Once you use antifungal products, adjust your habits, and avoid heavy oils, you can usually see improvement within a few weeks.

The process may take some patience, but the results are worth it. With the right routine, you can keep your skin clear, smooth, and healthy. If you ever feel unsure, a dermatologist can guide you and help you choose the best treatment for your skin.