Summertime and sunshine are quickly approaching, which means saying goodbye to the cold weather (thank goodness)!
With the warm weather on the horizon, many people are dreading their annual acne breakout that seems to tag along for all of summer’s adventures. But why is that?
Sweat, sunscreen, and sometimes our attire can lead to acne known as fungal acne.
What is fungal acne?
Fungal acne is a skin infection that starts at the hair follicle when the follicles become clogged, inflamed and infected. The infection presents itself in the form of small bumps, and/or whiteheads, which resemble acne vulgaris. So if you are picturing a green or yellow toe-like fungus, that isn’t exactly the case!
Many individuals who suffer from fungal acne confuse it with acne vulgaris and therefore aren’t treated for the correct condition.
Fungal acne vs acne vulgaris
Unlike acne vulgaris which is caused by a clogged hair follicle, fungal acne is caused by an infected hair follicle. Both result from dead skin cells, sebum, or other forms of bacteria that enter the skin.
Both types of acne may also present themselves in the form of whiteheads, blackheads, cysts, pustules and papules, making the conditions hard to differentiate without the help of a skin care physician like Dr. Shehla Ebrahim.
Why is fungal acne common in summer?
Fungal acne in summer is more common as fungus likes to grow in hot and humid places. The heat and excess perspiration that comes with the warmer months create the perfect ecosystem for fungal acne to grow and flourish.
Though more common in the summer months, some people, such as those who work with a lot of wearable equipment and who exercise regularly, may be at higher risk of developing fungal acne year-round.
Signs and symptoms of fungal acne
Just like other forms of acne, fungal acne presents itself as small rashy bumps that can be itchy. And, as previously mentioned, may also present itself in the form of whiteheads, blackheads, cysts, pustules and papules.
The greatest indicator of fungal acne is that regular acne treatments won’t clear it up. Since fungal acne is an infection, appropriate antifungal medication is needed.
How to avoid fungal acne in the summer
If you have struggled with fungal acne in the past, here are some tips to consider as the weather warms up:
- Wear loose clothing with breathable fabrics (such as cotton)
- Shower and change clothes right after you exercise (or perspire)
- If you wear a hat, make sure you wash it regularly as sweat and bacteria can be trapped in the fabric
Where to seek fungal acne treatment
If you are dealing with an acne breakout that just doesn’t seem to go away, you may be experiencing fungal acne.
In need of a skin care physician for a diagnosis? Dr. Shehla Ebrahim provides fungal acne treatment, with use of antifungal creams and oral medication so that you can clear up your skin and feel confident again! Click HERE to consult with Dr. Shehla Ebrahim. Please note that we do not accept email enquiries.