Acne is one of those skin issues that most of us have dealt with at some point in our lives, whether in our teenage years or well into adulthood. But not all acne is created equal. If you’ve ever tried countless treatments without much success, you might be dealing with a type of acne that’s more specific than the typical breakouts we’re all familiar with. Two common but often misunderstood types are fungal acne and hormonal acne. Understanding the differences between fungal vs hormonal acne is key to finding the right treatment and achieving clear skin.
So, what exactly are fungal and hormonal acne, and how can you tell the difference? While they might look similar at first glance, they have distinct causes, symptoms, and treatments. This article will break down the signs of each, how to treat them, and the crucial differences you need to know to tackle your skin concerns effectively.
Fungal vs Hormonal Acne: What’s the Difference?
Let’s start by getting a clear picture of what sets fungal and hormonal acne apart. While both can cause those frustrating red bumps and pimples, their root causes are entirely different. Understanding these causes is the first step toward choosing the right treatment and finally seeing results.
Fungal Acne (Malassezia Folliculitis)
Fungal acne is caused by an overgrowth of yeast, specifically Malassezia, which is naturally present on our skin. This yeast can multiply when conditions are right—think humid environments, excessive sweating, or the use of certain skincare products that clog pores. The result? Small, uniform pimples that are often itchy and sometimes mistaken for regular acne.
Unlike bacterial acne, which is driven by clogged pores and inflammation, fungal acne is more of a skin infection. It tends to appear on areas of the body that get particularly sweaty, like the chest, back, and sometimes the face, especially around the hairline. Because it’s caused by yeast, it doesn’t respond to typical acne treatments like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. Instead, antifungal treatments are needed to clear up the condition.
Hormonal Acne
Hormonal acne, on the other hand, is triggered by fluctuations in your body’s hormone levels. This type of acne is particularly common in women and can be linked to menstrual cycles, pregnancy, or conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). The hormonal shifts lead to an increase in oil production, which then clogs pores and leads to breakouts. Hormonal acne is most often found on the lower part of the face, such as the jawline, chin, and neck. These breakouts are usually deep, painful cysts that can be challenging to treat.
Unlike fungal acne, hormonal acne often requires a combination of topical treatments and systemic approaches like hormonal therapy or supplements to balance the underlying hormonal imbalances.
Recognizing the Signs
Now that you know the root causes of fungal and hormonal acne, it’s time to look at how you can tell which type you’re dealing with. The signs can be subtle, but paying close attention to them can guide you toward the right treatment plan.
Signs of Fungal Acne
- Fungal acne typically presents as small, uniform bumps that are often itchy. These bumps might look like regular pimples, but they don’t have the variety of sizes and shapes that bacterial acne does.
- It often shows up on areas that are prone to sweating, like the chest, back, and upper forehead. If you notice breakouts that coincide with these areas, fungal acne might be the culprit.
- One of the most distinguishing features of fungal acne is that it’s often itchy, unlike regular acne, which doesn’t typically cause itchiness.
- If you’ve tried standard acne treatments without success, or if they’ve made your acne worse, this could be a sign that you’re dealing with fungal acne. Antibiotics, which are commonly prescribed for bacterial acne, can sometimes exacerbate fungal acne by disrupting the skin’s microbiome.
Signs of Hormonal Acne
- Hormonal acne tends to be deeper and more cystic than fungal acne. The bumps are larger, more painful, and often leave behind scars or dark spots once they heal.
- It commonly appears on the lower face, particularly around the jawline, chin, and neck. These areas are more sensitive to hormonal changes, which is why acne often shows up here.
- Hormonal acne often flares up around the same time each month, typically in sync with your menstrual cycle. If you notice a pattern to your breakouts, particularly before or during your period, it’s likely hormonal acne.
- Hormonal acne tends to be stubborn and can persist for years, especially if the underlying hormonal imbalance isn’t addressed.
Treating Fungal Acne
Treating fungal acne requires a different approach than hormonal acne. Since it’s caused by yeast, not bacteria, the treatments need to focus on reducing yeast growth and balancing the skin’s microbiome.
Antifungal Treatments
- Over-the-counter antifungal creams or shampoos containing ingredients like ketoconazole or selenium sulfide can be very effective. These products are typically used on the affected area once or twice a day.
- Sulfur has both antifungal and antibacterial properties, making it a great option for treating fungal acne. You can find sulfur in cleansers or spot treatments that can be applied directly to the skin.
- Yeast thrives in oily environments, so it’s crucial to avoid skincare products that are heavy or greasy. Opt for lightweight, oil-free products to help keep your skin’s oil levels in check.
- If you’re prone to sweating, especially in hot or humid weather, opt for breathable fabrics like cotton. This helps reduce the moisture that yeast loves to grow in.
- After a workout or any activity that makes you sweat, make sure to shower and cleanse your skin as soon as possible. This helps wash away sweat and reduces the risk of yeast overgrowth.
Treating Hormonal Acne
When it comes to hormonal acne, the focus is on addressing the underlying hormonal imbalances. This often requires a more comprehensive approach, combining skincare with lifestyle changes and sometimes even medication.
Topical Treatments
- These vitamin A derivatives are effective in treating acne by promoting cell turnover and preventing clogged pores. They can also help fade post-acne marks, which are common with hormonal acne.
- Benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid are standard acne treatments that can help reduce inflammation and clear out pores. While they may not address the hormonal cause, they can help manage breakouts on the surface.
Oral Medications
- For many women, birth control pills can help regulate hormonal fluctuations that lead to acne. These pills work by stabilizing hormone levels and reducing the occurrence of cystic acne.
- Spironolactone is often prescribed for women with hormonal acne. It works by blocking androgen receptors, reducing the oil production that leads to acne.
- Hormonal acne supplements such as those containing zinc, DIM (Diindolylmethane), and omega-3 fatty acids can support hormone balance and reduce the severity of acne. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.
- Consider talking with your healthcare provider about over-the-counter remedies with known skin health benefits. For example, the anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties of moringa oleifera may help reduce the appearance of acne.
- Diets high in sugar and refined carbs can spike insulin levels, which in turn can worsen acne. Opt for a low-glycemic diet rich in whole foods, vegetables, and lean proteins to help stabilize blood sugar and reduce breakouts.
- Stress can exacerbate hormonal acne by increasing cortisol levels. Incorporating stress-reducing practices like yoga, meditation, or even just regular exercise can help keep your hormones in check.