Maybe it's Fungal Acne?
Is your acne so stubborn that no matter what you do, nothing seems to work?
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Maybe it’s not acne! At least, not bacterial acne. You could have what’s called fungal acne aka Malassezia (Pityrosporum Folliculitis). Malassezia is common and often gets misdiagnosed as bacteria acne. Fungal acne distinguishes itself from traditional acne in that it’s fungus not bacteria causing the breakouts.
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What triggers Malassezia?
Malassezia folliculitis is an acne-like breakout often accompanied by itchiness that flares most in areas where you sweat more, like your t-zone, back, chest and shoulders. Sweat is made of salt and lactic acid which in the presence of lipids is the perfect storm for Malassezia
It’s exacerbated by a dysfunctional skin barrier. Which means if you are using harsh products on your skin, not wearing your SPF daily, exfoliating too often than chances are your skin barrier doesn’t stand a chance. A healthy and strong skin barrier is key.
It grows optimally in 32 to 37 degrees Celsius – so more common in the humid Summer months
Fungal acne is very picky when it comes to skincare products. For some of you this may be the hardest adjustment because it’s more about simple and effective products and less about what looks pretty on your makeup counter!
How to get rid of Fungal Acne.
As with all skin conditions managing stress, getting quality sleep and a balanced nutritious diet will enhance the skin’s natural glow! When is comes to Fungal Acne, restoring your skin barrier and avoiding sensitizing products are key!
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Step 1: Avoid oils (squalane and MCT are safe), fatty acids (i.e. lauric, palmitic, stearic, oleic, and linoleic), esters (i.e. glycerol stearate), and polysorbates (i.e. polysorbate 80)
At this point you might be wondering how much these tiny ingredients can really affect the skin. Studies have shown that malaesszia can metabolize fatty acids (aka fungal acne food) in quantitates as small as 0.01%. So, every ingredient matters!
Step 2: Cleanse properly with a soap-free pH balanced cleanser. Make sure to remove excess sebum.
Step 3: Consider trying an anti-fungal skincare product (i.e. salicylic acid or green tea extract)
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Step 4: Moisturize properly with a product that doesn’t contain Malassezia food (any of the ingredients I listed in step 1)
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Step 5: Make sure you shower and wash your face immediately after working out or sweating ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
The great part of fungal acne, is that skincare can make a HUGE difference and who doesn’t love skincare shopping!? If you need help choosing fungal acne-safe products, I’m here for you. Send me a message and I’d be happy to support you.
Need more support? Join the Acne Reset and Clear Acne for Good!
WIth happiness and clear skin,
Caralyn