Acne is a common skin condition that affects millions of people all over the world. Most acne breakouts occur due to hormonal changes and excess oil production.
But there is another type of acne that is caused by fungi, called “fungal acne.”
Rather than being caused by bacteria, fungal acne results from an overgrowth of yeast. This yeast is called Malassezia, on the skin.
This type of acne is often misdiagnosed, and if left untreated, it can lead to more serious skin problems. Are you now surprised there are more types of acne?
In this blog, we will provide an overview of fungal acne, including its causes, symptoms, and treatment options.
What is Fungal Acne and How Does It Develop
Fungal acne is caused by a type of yeast called Malassezia. This yeast is naturally found on the skin, especially on the face, chest, and scalp.
However, when there is an overgrowth of Malassezia yeast, it can lead to fungal acne breakouts. Factors that contribute to an overgrowth of Malassezia include oily skin, hormonal changes, a weak immune system, and hot, humid weather.
13 Of The Best Face Wash For Fungal Acne
- Best for sensitive scalp-Selsun Blue Medicated Anti-dandruff Shampoo with Menthol
- Best for sensitive skin-Differin body wash
- Best toner-Paulas Choice or Blackheads, Enlarged Pores
- Best cleansing-EltaMD Foaming Facial Cleanser
- Best budget-CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser
- Best overall-PanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash Benzoyl Peroxide
- Best non-drying-Skin smart Antimicrobial
- Best Lightweight-Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser
- Best toner-Thayers Alcohol-Free, Hydrating Rose Petal Witch Hazel Facial Toner
- Best for large pores-DERMA-E Acne Deep Pore Cleansing Wash
- Best for Smooth Skin-Jason Natural Body Wash
- Top rated-CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser
- Most bought-Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo with 1% Ketoconazole
With the above washes, I’m sure everyone will find what works for them from budget fungal acne wash to fungal acne shampoo but remember to always do a patch test first.
How To Know If You Have Oily Skin
Fungal acne is usually associated with oily skin. We have covered oily skin care products in the past. You can find oily skin care products here so I`ll not go deep into oily skincare.
But you`ll know you have some of these symptoms on your skin
- Your makeup keeps running off and you need to reapply during the day.
- Shiny-looking skin especially in your T-Zone
- Enlarges skin pores
- You are prone to breakouts
- Pimples seem to love you
- Excess oil on your back, neck, and maybe armpits(is there such a thing as oily armpits? Yes, there is.
Why You Need a Specialized Face Wash for Fungal Acne
Caring for acne that is caused by a fungal infection, use something more specialized than your regular face wash.
As mentioned above, fungal acne is caused by the Malassezia fungus. These typically feed on oils and waxes from the skin, sebum, hormones makeup, and other skincare products.
Using a face wash that is specially formulated with ingredients to target this fungus is essential to get rid of the infection. So read on as we help you find a good cleanser too.
Using simple benzoyl peroxide or home remedies such as aloe vera, tea tree oil, or coconut oil can provide relief and help treat the infection but will take longer for you to see the effects.
It is important to remember not to scrub the area too harshly when using any of these ingredients. Instead, use gentle cleansing motions using gentle facial cleansing brushes like this one.
After about 14 days of consistent treatment, the facial infection should clear up completely. The result is a skin feeling refreshed and renewed.
When choosing a face wash for fungal acne, look for one that contains active ingredients like tea tree oil, benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, and neem oil.
Choose your products wisely
Tea tree oil is effective against many types of bacteria. fungi, and viruses.
The Benefits of Using the Right Face Wash for Fungal Acne
Face wash for fungal acne can help to eliminate the pesky little bumps, redness, and irritation that can occur when you have this skin condition.
Using a face wash specifically designed for fungal acne has some additional benefits as well.
Regulate your Skin Oil Production
It helps to regulate oil production in your skin, which is especially beneficial if your skin tends to become overly sensitive.
Aside from the benefits of using a face wash specifically designed for fungal acne, there are other ways to take care of your skin, also for those with regular acne.
Regular facial cleansing and moisturizing can help keep your skin clear and healthy while avoiding products that contain harsh ingredients or fragrances.
Sometimes people with oily skin tend to overwash their facial skin, don`t do that. Instead, use good quality exfoliating cleanser to gently open pores.
I love this cleanser and it works by Improving the appearance of skin tone and skin texture.
Additionally, it is important to wear sunscreen during activities outside in order to protect yourself against sun damage.
Ingredients to Look for in Fungal Acne Face Wash
Fungal acne is a common skin condition that can cause redness, inflammation, and even infection. It is important to take special care when choosing the right face wash for this kind of acne.
Here are some ingredients to look for in a fungal acne face wash:
- Salicylic Acid: This powerful ingredient helps to reduce inflammation. It also helps to keep your skin clean and free of bacteria that can cause infection.
- Zinc Pyrithione: This ingredient has anti-fungal properties, meaning it can help stop the growth and spread of the fungus responsible for fungal acne breakouts. It is often found in anti-dandruff shampoos.
- Tea Tree Oil: Tea tree oil is naturally antibacterial and antifungal, making it a great choice for treating fungal acne. It can help to reduce redness and irritation while clearing up the infection, you can even dab it directly on the affected area of your skin.
- Niacinamide: This ingredient helps to reduce redness and inflammation associated with fungal acne, while also helping to maintain healthy skin cells.
- Aloe Vera: known for its soothing properties and can help to reduce inflammation caused by fungal acne. It also helps to keep your skin hydrated and reduce irritation.
- Niacinamide: Niacinamide is an essential vitamin that helps to regulate oil production in the skin, which can be beneficial for those with fungal acne.
- Witch Hazel: Witch hazel is another natural ingredient that has antibacterial and antifungal properties. It helps to clear up fungal acne while reducing redness and inflammation.
When choosing the best face wash for fungal acne, make sure to read the ingredients list carefully and look for these key ingredients in acne cleansers.
Why use anti-dandruff shampoos as face cleansers?
One of the best products(but rarely known) for treating fungal acne is an anti-dandruff shampoo. Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo with 1% Ketoconazole is my go-to. The product is clinically proven itching and kills the fungus that causes dandruff.
These shampoos have active ingredients that are specially formulated to eliminate the yeast that causes fungal acne. They also help to keep the skin clear and healthy.
You can use anti-dandruff shampoo as a face wash for fungal acne, or even use it as a spot treatment by applying it to the affected areas, it works even for those with sensitive skin.
It is important to note that anti-dandruff shampoos should not be used in place of regular cleansers and face washes.
Shampoos are best used as an additional product for treating fungal acne breakouts with other acne-prone skin care products.
Beneficial Ingredients In Face Washes For Acne Prone Skin
Acne-prone skin needs an extra level of attention and care when it comes to face washes.
Many conventional products contain harsh ingredients that can exacerbate acne, even some makeup products may increase acne.
It is important to look for the right kind of face washes with beneficial ingredients that can help treat blemishes while still keeping your skin clean even if you have oily skin(which can be hard to deal with)
When dealing with fungal acne in particular, it is important to look for face washes that contain active ingredients like tea tree oil and sulfur.
Tea tree oil has natural antimicrobial properties which can help combat bacteria on the skin, while sulfur has antifungal and antibacterial benefits that can help reduce fungal acne breakouts.
Additionally, look for face washes that contain salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, two of the most common active ingredients used to treat acne.
When shopping for face washes, try to avoid those with harsh fragrances or unnatural dyes.
These can cause skin irritation and further aggravate existing breakouts depending on your skin condition. Additionally, get face washes that are labeled as “non-comedogenic,” meaning they don`t clog pores.
It is also important to look for face washes that contain beneficial ingredients for acne-prone skin.
For example, salicylic acid helps to fight breakouts by exfoliating deep within the pores, while benzoyl peroxide can help kill bacteria and reduce inflammation.
Tea tree oil has natural antiseptic properties which can fight off infection
Things to consider when choosing a fungal acne face wash
It is important to choose a face wash specifically formulated for fungal acne because regular facial cleansers may not be effective in treating the condition or producing the best results like removing dead skin cells.
When selecting a safe facial cleanser for fungal acne, choose products with active ingredients like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, the products are known to help control fungal growth on the skin.
Additionally, products with antifungal properties such as tea tree oil or coconut oil can be helpful in treating fungal acne.
For those seeking a more natural approach, opt for facial cleansers that are free from synthetic fragrances and use plant-based ingredients instead.
Lastly, it is important to avoid face washes containing alcohol or other harsh chemicals that can irritate your skin or affect your skin tone.
When to Decide for The Best Fungal Acne Treatment
No one-size-fits-all when looking for a skincare product of any kind, but when shopping for fungal acne face wash these need to be considered.
- Price
- Ingredients
- Skin type
Ingredients to Avoid in Face Wash For Fungal Acne
Esters
When it comes to selecting a face wash for fungal acne, it’s important to avoid products containing Esters. These acids are often used in skin care products as they provide moisturizing and softening benefits that are beneficial to your skin.
However, the presence of Esters can actually cause more harm than good when dealing with fungal acne.
It’s recommended that people suffering from fungal acne select a face wash without esters.
Organic and natural products are often free of Esters, and these can be good options when looking for a safe face wash for fungal acne.
Many of these products also contain other ingredients that are beneficial for fungal acne sufferers, such as tea tree oil or aloe vera gel.
Oils
When looking to treat fungal acne it is important to avoid using oils on the skin.
Unfortunately, many facial cleansers are formulated with oils like coconut oil, sweet almond oil, and other vegetable oils that can clog pores.
This creates the perfect environment for yeast and bacteria to grow, thus exacerbating fungal acne. Instead, look for facial cleansers specifically formulated with safe ingredients such as salicylic acid, tea tree oil, or benzoyl peroxide.
These ingredients are effective against fungi without irritating the skin.
To ensure you are avoiding these types of products, look for facial cleansers that specifically say “non-comedogenic” on the label.
Non-comedogenic products are oil-free, so they won’t clog pores and provide an optimal environment for fungal acne to grow.
Additionally, a face wash with anti-bacterial or anti-fungal properties may be beneficial in keeping your skin clean and free of yeast or bacteria.
Butters
Butters are often used in skin care products because they add emollience and help to create a barrier on the skin to lock in moisture.
There are a few safe alternatives available and opting for these can help ensure that the skin remains healthy and well hydrated.
For example, plant-based oils like jojoba oil or squalane oil can be used as a facial cleanser that is both gentle and effective.
More of the Best Fungal Acne Treatments
- Best moisturizer for acne: TULA Skincare Breakout Star Oil-Free Acne Moisturizer
- Best prescription topical: Ketoconazole Cream
- Best wipes: CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleansing Makeup Remover Wipes
Does Fungal Acne Go Away On Its Own?
Fungal acne should not be overlooked or disregarded; it is a common skin issue.
One of the most important steps to take in treating fungal acne is finding the best ingredient face wash that won’t aggravate the affected area and when moisturizing. choose an oil-free moisturizer.
Additionally, some people prefer natural essential oils and formulations. This allows for more control over potential allergens and irritants present in many commercial products.
When Should You Contact A Dermatologist?
You should also look for safe face wash products that can help reduce the chances of fungal acne.
It’s best to use a mild cleanser with ingredients like Tea Tree Oil or Salicylic Acid, which have antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties.
Additionally, using lukewarm (not hot) water when washing your face can help prevent irritation.
If there is no improvement, it’s important to contact a board-certified dermatologist for diagnosis and treatment. There may be other underlying causes like your immune system or there might be an infection of the hair follicles you are unaware of.
F A Q
Is salicylic acid safe for fungal acne?
Yes, salicylic acid is safe,not only that but it can help prevent further fungal acne breakouts.
Is benzoyl peroxide safe for fungal acne?
Benzoyl peroxide is not an anti-fungal ingredient, and there are many better choices for clearing fungal acne like this combined with other products and treatment options
The bottom line
There are plenty of OTC and prescription options (creams, other topicals, shampoos, etc.)that will help you fight fungal acne.
I hope you found this post helpful, if you have any questions, just leave me a message below. Want to know more about acne-causing bacteria or if you should use oral antibiotics, just leave me a message.
Want to know if your skin tone will turn to normal or if you can use Zinc soap on your face, just leave me a message.
Let`s talk soon and in the meantime, tell me how you deal with dark spots caused by acne.
Nicolle says
Really enjoy your blog posts, there is always something new that I learn. I have been struggling with my skin on and off, so really good to get more learnings and information. Thank you so much!!
The Beauty Doctors says
Glad you found the post useful, most of us have skin issues from time to time, you just have to find what works best for your skin but having said that, we don`t always have to break the bank to buy beauty products, that`s why I always make an effort to include affordable skincare products.
Jake Devins says
Hi, dealing with skin issues can be tricky, and it’s always helpful to have recommendations for products that may alleviate the problem. From my experience, fungal acne can be particularly stubborn, so having a selection of face washes tailored to this issue is beneficial. It’s important to remember that what works for one person might not work for another, but having a starting point like this list can be a real help when trying to address skincare concerns.
The Beauty Doctors says
I totally agree, no matter how good a skincare product is, it may not work for every single person. we all have different skin types and even where you live can make a difference.
Thanks and I’m glad you liked the post.
Dave Sweney says
Thanks for this article on 13 of the best face washes for fungal acne. It brought a lot of new knowledge and also the tips provided backed up by science and research provided me with some solutions that I had never heard of before but will try now. Quite an eye-opener for me.
Since entering my early teenage years, I have had quite oily skin and as a teenager all the way into my late 20s, had frequent breakouts of acne, much of it fungal-based I suspect, looking back. If I had known about some possible solutions laid out in this article, I could have saved myself a lot of heartache and pain.
Using the anti-dandruff shampoos was likely the biggest takeaway for me and I will try this immediately. Even at my advanced age, my skin is oily and prone to breakouts from time to time. I live in the Middle East right now, where there is a lot of sand and dirt in the air, it is extremely hot, and the sun is blazing daily. I have bookmarked this post!
The Beauty Doctors says
Glad you found the post useful.Middle east, I can`t imagine living there, I just can`t take the heat and the sand, I’m sure you have a good reason to live there.
I will try and create a post on homemade products for fungal acne. Thanks for stopping by.