Skin Talk with Steph: Fungal Acne vs Breakouts
Welcome to Week 3 of Skin Talk with Steph
So far, we’ve learned how to identify your skin type and how to build a balanced daily rhythm. This week, we’re tackling one of the most misunderstood topics in skincare — fungal acne.
I often meet clients who have been treating stubborn breakouts for months or even years, only to realize they weren’t dealing with acne at all. What many refer to as “tiny bumps that won’t go away” is often something entirely different: fungal folliculitis, sometimes called fungal acne.
Understanding the difference is the key to finally getting results — and avoiding the frustration of using products that make things worse.
Week 3: Fungal Acne vs Breakouts — Why the Difference Matters
Fungal Acne vs. Traditional Acne
Traditional acne is caused by bacteria, excess oil, and clogged pores. It appears as inflamed pimples of various sizes — sometimes painful, sometimes cystic — and it often responds well to ingredients like benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, and retinoids.
Fungal acne, however, is caused by an overgrowth of yeast within the hair follicles. These tiny organisms naturally live on the skin, but under certain conditions — like humidity, sweat, friction, or heavy skincare products — they can multiply and trigger uniform, itchy bumps that mimic acne.
How to tell the difference:
Fungal acne often appears as small, similar-sized bumps.
It tends to show up on the forehead, chest, shoulders, and back.
It may feel itchy or worsen after sweating.
Traditional acne tends to vary in size and may respond to spot treatments.
Why This Matters
Treating fungal acne like bacterial acne can actually make it worse. Overusing acids, scrubs, or drying products strips the barrier and creates the perfect environment for yeast to grow.
When the goal is balance, not battle, your skin can finally calm down and recover.
How to Restore Balance
Simplify your routine. Over-cleansing and layering actives can inflame the skin.
Switch to non-comedogenic products. Avoid heavy oils like coconut or shea on breakout-prone areas.
Cleanse after sweating. Yeast thrives in warmth and moisture.
Incorporate gentle exfoliation. Mild acids can help keep pores clear without stripping.
Seek professional evaluation. Sometimes a targeted antifungal treatment is needed for full resolution.
Steph’s Professional Insight
Many clients assume their skin is “problematic,” when in reality, it’s reactive. When you identify what your skin is truly experiencing, you stop fighting symptoms and start addressing causes.
A calm, balanced barrier is the foundation of clear skin — and often, less is more.
