Dermatologists offer insights into the best ways to treat and prevent outbreaks of fungal acne, or malassezia folliculitis, which can appear on the chest, arms, or back. Contrary to its name, fungal acne is not caused by fungus or related to regular acne. It is triggered by a yeast that causes inflammation in the hair follicles, resulting in pimple-like bumps. While it can occur naturally on the skin, an overgrowth can lead to breakouts, often due to seasonal changes.
Fungal acne most commonly affects the chest, upper arms, and back, appearing less frequently on the face. It tends to look like clusters of red bumps or pustules and is usually itchy—unlike regular acne, which features both whiteheads and blackheads and can occur on individual or multiple pimples.
To diagnose fungal acne, dermatologists may use a physical examination, skin scraping, or a Wood’s lamp to detect the infection. Antifungal treatments are necessary to address this condition. Dermatologists such as Dr. Joshua Zeichner recommend using dandruff shampoos with anti-fungal ingredients, like pyrithione zinc or selenium sulfide, as body washes.
For more persistent cases, anti-fungal creams containing econazole nitrate, ketoconazole, or clotrimazole can be applied to affected areas twice daily. If home treatments fail, consulting a dermatologist for oral antifungal medications might be required. Preventive measures include avoiding heavy moisturizers, wearing breathable clothing, and showering post-exercise to prevent recurrence.
