02/20/2025
Understanding Fungal Acne:
What is it, Causes and Holistic Remedies
Fungal acne, often mistaken for traditional acne, is a skin condition caused by an overgrowth of yeast (Malassezia) rather than bacteria. While it can resemble regular acne with small, uniform pimples, fungal acne typically appears on the forehead, chest, back, or shoulders and can often be itchy and clustered. Conventional acne treatments may not work, and in some cases, they can make the condition worse. Fortunately, there are holistic approaches that can help restore balance to the skin and prevent future outbreaks.
What Causes Fungal Acne?
Fungal acne is triggered when the yeast that naturally lives on the skin overgrows, leading to inflammation in the hair follicles. Several factors contribute to this imbalance, including:
1. Excess Moisture & Sweating - Wearing tight, non-breathable clothing or not showering after sweating can create an environment where yeast thrives. Wearing a wetsuit can also contribute to fungal acne on the chest and back.
2. Overuse of Antibiotics - Antibiotics disrupt the skin and gut microbiome, allowing yeast to overpopulate.
3. High-Sugar & Processed Foods - Diets high in sugar and refined carbohydrates can fuel yeast overgrowth.
4. Oily Skin & Heavy Skincare Products - Some oils and occlusive skincare products can feed Malassezia, worsening fungal acne.
5. Weakened Immune System - Stress, poor diet, and lack of sleep can weaken immunity, making the skin more susceptible.
6. Mold Exposure - Exposure to mold and dampness can increase the risk of fungal acne.
New Fungal Acne Line, MALEZIA
now available at Cleo
MALEZIA
Malezia's anti-fungal line uses evidence-based skincare ingredients that doesn't feed opportunistic bacteria and fungi, designed specifically for fungal acne patients. They are committed to pioneering microbiology-driven formulations, focusing on scientific research, and crafting innovative products that prioritize skin health without fueling harmful microorganisms. All formulations are microbiome inert, minimizing impact on skin flora while utilizing evidence-based active ingredients.
Additionally, we align with their environmental approach, as all products are packaged with sustainable aluminum that is infinitely recyclable.
* Before and after of 6 week regimen with Malezia Products
A Holistic Approach to Treating Fungal Acne
1. Incorporate Probiotics & Gut-Healing Foods
A balanced gut microbiome helps control yeast levels in the body. Consider adding:
Fermented foods like kimchi, sauerkraut, and kefir.
Probiotic supplements with Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains.
Prebiotic-rich foods like garlic, onions, and bananas to support beneficial gut bacteria.
2. Adjust Your Diet to Reduce Yeast Growth
Since Malassezia feeds on certain types of fats and sugars, dietary adjustments can make a big difference:
- Reduce sugar intake - Cut back on refined sugar and high-glycemic foods.
- Avoid dairy and processed foods - These can contribute to inflammation.
- Incorporate antifungal foods - Garlic, coconut oil, oregano, and apple cider vinegar help fight yeast overgrowth.
3. Add Natural Antifungal Treatments
- Coconut Oil - Contains caprylic acid, which has antifungal properties. Apply a thin layer as a moisturizer.
- Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) Rinse - Dilute ACV with water (1:1 ratio) and use it as a toner to help restore the skin's pH balance.
- Aloe Vera - Soothes irritation and has mild antifungal properties.
4. Wear Breathable Clothing & Practice Good Hygiene
Since fungal acne thrives in humid environments, it's important to:
- Wear loose, moisture-wicking fabrics.
- Shower immediately after sweating.
- Change pillowcases and towels frequently to prevent yeast buildup.
5. Support Your Immune System
A strong immune system can naturally keep yeast levels in check. Focus on: Focus on:
Stress management- Practice yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises.
Quality sleep - Aim for 7-9 hours of rest per night.
Hydration - Drink plenty of water to flush out toxins.
Fungal acne can be frustrating, but by addressing the root causes and making lifestyle changes, you can help restore balance to your skin. A holistic approach that combines gentle skincare, dietary adjustments, and overall wellness practices can significantly reduce flare-ups and prevent recurrence.
Unsure About Your Acne?
Get a Professional Analysis with a Cleo Acne Facial
We provide a holistic approach to treating skin by addressing all factors that influence skin health by combining our external philosophy of maintaining the skin barrier and microbiome with naturopathy to achieve safe and long term results.
We use an advanced skin analysis method to identify skin type, cellular skin health and certain deficiencies within the skin to provide a personalized skincare prescription.
Acne Express Treatment (https://book.squareup.com/appointments/efb3951c-ad8f-4c6c-97a5-952d29b5bfef/location/BRN8Q5X3QEMJ4/services/XEQ4TNKATAQZKXYFRZBWAC4X)
30 minutes
Our express acne facials are for active acne clients with Cleo who have been consulted and prescribed the express acne facial. These facials usually consist of a cleanse, chemical peel or enzyme treatment, extractions, serums and moisturizers.
Acne Cleo Treatment (https://book.squareup.com/appointments/efb3951c-ad8f-4c6c-97a5-952d29b5bfef/location/BRN8Q5X3QEMJ4/services/ADOMEAUHZU5SYV35XUUI6QTZ?savt=7eb10280-3884-4952-aca5-78ace7c0fd79)
45 minutes
This facial has been created to help restore and transform your skin back to its healthy state. The initial facial is approximately 45 minutes and we go over a variety of questions about your lifestyle, diet, genetics, skincare routine, etc. This service includes a double cleanse, enzyme and/or chemical peel treatments, extractions, serums, moisturizer and either ice globes or high frequency.
For severe acne, it typically takes about six treatments over a 3 month period to see results.
Acne Advanced Cleo Treatment: (https://book.squareup.com/appointments/efb3951c-ad8f-4c6c-97a5-952d29b5bfef/location/BRN8Q5X3QEMJ4/services/LSDGNDJJ63QIBM5RZA6WZGEG?savt=7eb10280-3884-4952-aca5-78ace7c0fd79)
60 minutes
Our advanced acne treatment includes a thorough consultation about lifestyle, diet, skincare routine, etc. We perform a double cleanse, enzyme and/or chemical peel, extractions, serums, toners, moisturizers, LED Celluma blue light therapy and either ice globes or high frequency.
*For severe acne expect to come every two weeks for about 3 months to see true results. *
We would love to chat more with you about fungal acne, feel free to respond to this email, drop by the spa or book a facial to learn more.
As always, we look forward to supporting you throughout your personal skin journey!
Warmly,
Leslie & the ladies of Cleo
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