Are you troubled by pesky acne bumps? If it seems like you’ve tried all sorts of acne products but the results are still futile, it’s time to reassess your skin. While the blemishes that appear might look the same, they could indicate a different skin condition. Fungal acne is often mistaken for acne vulgaris due to their similar conditions. Additionally, research published in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology by Richard M. Rubenstein, and Sarah A. Malerich has also attested to this, finding that fungal acne is frequently misdiagnosed as common acne. So, how do you truly know if you have fungal acne and what are the best fungal acne-safe products to banish it? Keep reading and bookmark this page.

What Exactly is Fungal Acne?

Pityrosporum folliculitis, commonly known as fungal acne, is a skin infection of the hair follicles caused by the overgrowth of Malassezia, a yeast naturally present on our skin. This condition occurs when the hair follicles are damaged, allowing the yeast to enter and cause infection.

To the uninitiated, fungal acne can lead to skin irritation and even whiteheads, making it easily mistaken for acne. In addition to appearing on the skin’s surface, it is typically found in uniform papules and pustules on the chest, back, and face.

What Causes Fungal Acne?

There are several reasons that cause fungal acne formation on the skin, including:

  • Damage to the hair follicles from shaving, rubbing against friction, or touching the skin.
  • Hot and humid weather, which proliferates the amount of yeast.
  • Excessive consumption of oral antibiotics, as they can influence the skin’s flora balance.
  • Sweating, which can create a moist environment that triggers yeast overgrowth.

Symptoms of Fungal Acne

If you are unsure whether you have acne vulgaris or fungal acne, look for these symptoms of fungal acne to differentiate between them before following up with a doctor for diagnosis:

  • Breakouts that consist of itchy bumps.
  • Appearance on the face, neck, shoulders, upper back, and arms.
  • Resemblance to a rash with clusters of bumps that have a uniform shape and size.
  • Irritation or inflammation felt in the infected area

The Best Fungal Acne-Safe Products In Singapore 2024

1. Differin Adapalene Gel

As the name suggests, Differin Adapalene Gel, which tops our list of the best fungal acne-safe products, contains the retinoid adapalene. This type of retinoid is known for its ability to target the formation of acne, accelerate skin cellular turnover, and prevent clogged pores. It addresses the underlying issues of blemishes while enhancing the skin’s texture and tone. Thanks to its lightweight texture, it easily absorbs into the skin without leaving any greasy residue.

Why we love it:

  • Non-comedogenic
  • Prevent the formation of acne
  • Fast-absorbing formula 

Cons:

  • May cause irritation and dryness

Price: $30.93

Where to buy: iHerb

2. Dermalogica Clear Start Breakout Clearing Foaming Wash

As the first step in a skincare routine, a cleanser is undoubtedly pivotal for the right regime. Start your day with Dermalogica Clear Start Breakout Clearing Foaming Wash, a multitasking cleanser that works by sloughing off dead skin cells, eliminating impurities and excess oils, and unclogging the pores. You can also use it on your neck, chest, and even back to target acne.

Why we love it:

  • Available in two sizes
  • Deeply cleanses the skin from impurities
  • Contains salicylic acid

Cons:

  • The foam based formula can cause slight dryness 

Price: from $35.00

Where to buy: Sephora

3. Dr. Barbara Sturm Microbiotic Balancing Face Cream

Dr. Barbara Sturm Microbiotic Balancing Face Cream is part of the Microbiotic Collection designed to ensure a healthier balance of the skin. It is expertly formulated with a medley of hyaluronic acid, tiger grass, butterfly bush flower, as well as pre and probiotics. These ingredients deliver a multitude of benefits, including retaining moisture, soothing irritation, fortifying the skin’s defence mechanism, and rebalancing the skin’s flora. With consistent usage, you’ll notice your skin transform with a clearer and healthier complexion.

Why we love it:

  • Formulated to rebalance the skin’s flora
  • Potent soothing properties 
  • Retain moisture 

Cons:

  • Slightly pricey 

Price: $130.00

Where to buy: Dr. Barbara Sturm’s official website 

4. Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta® Extra Strength Peel

Our personal pick for the best fungal acne-safe product would have to be the Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta® Extra Strength Peel. This cult-favourite product consists of a two-step treatment that offers impeccable results akin to clinical treatment. Leveraging seven types of acids, antioxidants, and vitamins, you will experience instantaneous transformation. From my experience, it works wonders to brighten the complexion, smooth rough skin texture, minimise the appearance of pores, and remove impurities, excess oil, and dead skin cells. However, don’t forget to apply sunscreen after using it.

Why we love it:

  • Targets signs of ageing
  • Removes dead skin cells and excess oiliness
  • Vegan

Cons:

  • Can cause irritation

Price: from $36.00

Where to buy: Sephora

5. Foreo ESPADA™ Blue Light Acne Treatment

If a regular skincare product is not enough for you, consider investing in a beauty device engineered for acne treatment. The Foreo ESPADA™ Blue Light Acne Treatment is outfitted with professional-grade blue light technology and T-Sonic pulsations to effectively target acne-causing bacteria. So, how does it actually work, you ask? The 415 nm of blue light permeates deep into the skin’s layers to address the bacteria. Coupled with T-Sonic pulsations, it ensures deeper penetration while promoting blood circulation to support the skin’s renewal. Aside from its soft medical-grade silicone, it is also equipped with a skin sensor and a 30-second built-in timer.

Why we love it:

  • Features 30-seconds built-in timer
  • Medical grade silicone
  • Travel-friendly 

Cons:

  • Can be time-consuming for those with many blemishes 

Price: $259.00

Where to buy: Sephora

6. EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46

If you’re looking for the best fungal acne-safe products, specifically sunscreen, look no further than EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46. Featuring a hypoallergenic formula, it is packed with skin-loving ingredients including niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin E. Zinc oxide is added to reflect and scatter UVA and UVB radiation. Formulated for acne-prone and rosacea skin, you’ll notice that it works beyond by minimising the appearance of blemishes and discoloration.

Why we love it:

  • Non-comedogenic
  • Can be layered under makeup
  • Ideal for acne-prone skin

Cons:

  • Might be unsuitable for those with dry skin

Price: $62.47

Where to buy: Amazon 

7. Krave Beauty Kale-Lalu-yAHA

Krave Beauty Kale-Lalu-yAHA packs a punch with its high-performance formulation that gently exfoliates dead skin cells to accelerate cellular renewal. Powered by 5.25% glycolic acid, it smooths the rough skin texture, evens out discoloration, and unclogs the pores for a brighter-looking visage. Unlike regular exfoliating toners, it does not compromise your skin’s barrier and microbiome. So, you can rest assured that you are in good hands!

Why we love it:

  • Ideal for all skin types including sensitive
  • Gentle formulation
  • Contains soothing properties

Cons:

  • The texture is slightly too watery

Price: $34.00

Where to buy: Krave Beauty’s official website 

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