Malassezia (Pityrosporum) folliculitis is a fungal acneiform condition commonly misdiagnosed as acne vulgaris. Although often associated with common acne, this condition may persist for years without complete resolution with typical acne medications.
What causes Malassezia on face?
Malassezia folliculitis due to the yeast growing in the hair follicles where they produce inflammation. Steroid acne. Seborrhoeic dermatitis, dandruff, sebopsoriasis and facial or scalp psoriasis – – most often due to M. restricta and M.
How do you treat Malassezia acne?
How is fungal acne treated?
- Shower more regularly. If you regularly work out or have a job that causes you to sweat, try showering and changing clothes right after the gym or work. …
- Wear looser clothes. …
- Try a body wash. …
- Use over-the-counter (OTC) antifungal treatments. …
- Try prescription oral antifungal medicine.
How do I know if my acne is fungal?
Symptoms of fungal acne or pityrosporum folliculitis can include:
- Very itchy skin.
- Clusters of small red bumps.
- Spots on your forehead and chin, and the sides of your face.
- Spots on your chest, back, neck, and arms.
- Acne that doesn’t respond to treatment.
- Irritated hair follicles.
How do you know if you have Malassezia?
Malassezia folliculitis presents as small, uniform, itchy papules and pustules particularly on the upper back and chest. Other sites involved can include the forehead/hair line, chin, neck, and extensor aspect of the upper limbs.
What products feed Malassezia?
High sebum production, excessive sweating, antibiotic use, oral steroids and immunosuppression are all factors that contribute to the overgrowth of Malassezia. Ingredients shown to feed Malassezia include fatty acids with carbon chain lengths of 11-24, most oils, polysorbates and esters.
How do you prevent Malassezia from yeast?
Pyrithione zinc kills Malassezia and all other fungi, and is highly effective against the Malassezia species actually found on scalp. Reduction in fungi reduces free fatty acids, thereby reducing scalp flaking and itch.
What kills fungal acne on face?
Most fungal acne will respond well to ketoconazole 2% which is a broad spectrum anti-fungal agent which can be applied topically and is used as a first line defense for fungal acne. For more severe conditions an oral anti-fungal of itraconazole, fluconazole, ketoconazole and terbinafine may be introduced short term.
Is Malassezia contagious?
Malassezia is not considered to be contagious to other animals or people; however there are very rare reports of immunocompromised humans being at greater risk of infection. Yeast infections can be localized (ears, perianal region, facial skin folds, interdigital spaces) or have a more generalized presentation.
Why does fungal acne happen?
Fungal acne is spots caused by Malassezia (formerly known as Pityrosporum). Malassezia are yeasts that are naturally found on everyone’s skin. Malassezia yeasts can grow in hair follicles, and cause inflammation of hair follicles. This causes spots to develop and this is referred to as fungal acne.
Why do I have fungal acne on my forehead?
Fungal acne appears on your face due to yeast overgrowth, which may be due to hormone imbalance, diet changes, trapped moisture, a suppressed immune system, tight clothes, or humid environments. While having some fungus and bacteria on your skin is essential, an imbalance can lead to an overgrowth of yeast.
Is Nizoral good for fungal acne?
Unlike typical acne, which is caused by oil and bacteria buildup, fungal acne doesn’t respond to traditional acne treatments. However, because Nizoral (ketoconazole) primarily targets the growth of fungal infections, it can be an effective treatment for fungal acne.
How do I know if my acne is hormonal or bacterial?
You can tell if acne is hormonal or bacteria by its severity if flare-ups occur during hormonal imbalances, and whether topical treatments resolve the issues, or if systemic medications are needed.
What triggers Malassezia folliculitis?
Malassezia folliculitis results from overgrowth of yeast present in the normal cutaneous flora. Eruptions may be associated with conditions altering this flora, such as immunosuppression and antibiotic use.
How long does it take to get rid of Malassezia?
Since topical antifungals and washes do not penetrate well into the hair follicle, first-line treatment is generally with oral antifungals. Improvement is expected within 1–2 months.
Where does Malassezia yeast come from?
Malassezia yeasts have been found in human dandruff, deep-sea vents, and pretty much everywhere in between. The skin of most if not all warm-blooded animals is covered with these microbes, and while they mostly live in peaceful co-existence with their hosts, they can cause serious diseases in humans and other animals.