Dermatologists treat fungal acne using both topical and oral antifungal medications.
Understanding Fungal Acne Treatment
Fungal acne, also known as pityrosporum folliculitis, isn't actually acne. It's an infection of hair follicles caused by yeast, not bacteria. Therefore, typical acne treatments won't work. Dermatologists focus on tackling the underlying fungal cause using specific antifungal medications.
Treatment Options
| Treatment Type | Examples | How it Works |
|---|---|---|
| Topical Antifungals | Creams, shampoos | Applied directly to the skin, these target the yeast on the surface. |
| Oral Antifungals | Fluconazole, Itraconazole | Taken by mouth, these treat more widespread or stubborn cases. |
Detailed Look at Treatment Methods:
-
Topical Antifungal Medications: These are often the first line of defense for milder cases.
- Antifungal creams: Applied directly to the affected areas, these creams help control the fungal growth.
- Antifungal shampoos: Certain medicated shampoos, sometimes containing ketoconazole or selenium sulfide, can be used on the face and body to reduce yeast proliferation.
-
Oral Antifungal Medications: These are used for more severe or persistent cases that don't respond to topical treatments.
- Fluconazole: A common oral antifungal medication used to treat fungal infections.
- Itraconazole: Another effective oral antifungal medication prescribed by dermatologists for stubborn fungal acne.
When to See a Dermatologist
It's best to see a dermatologist if:
- Over-the-counter remedies don't improve your condition.
- Your acne-like breakout is persistent and itchy.
- You suspect it might be fungal instead of bacterial acne.
Key Takeaways:
- Fungal acne is treated differently than bacterial acne.
- Antifungal medications, either topical or oral, are the cornerstone of treatment.
- A dermatologist can diagnose and determine the most effective treatment plan for you.
- Effective oral antifungals include fluconazole and itraconazole.
By understanding the specific causes and treatment options, you can work with a dermatologist to effectively manage fungal acne.
