People often mistake fungal acne for normal acne. It is caused by an overgrowth of yeast in the hair follicles. This disease presents as tiny, itchy, and red papules. They appear mainly on the chest, back, and arms but sometimes on the face. Unlike the usual acne caused by bacteria and increased production of oil, fungal acne requires a new approach to treatment.
Home remedies are an alternative to standard medical treatments. They are based on natural ingredients and may be a viable option. This article discusses natural approaches. It offers a helpful way to treat fungal acne at home.
What is Fungal Acne?
Fungal acne involves Malassezia yeast. It lives on our skin. But, it multiplies in abundance. Such cases are common in humid climates or where the skin’s normal balance is disturbed. This excess growth leads to itchy, red papules that closely resemble ordinary acne. But these bumps respond poorly to standard acne treatments. So, it is pivotal to identify it precisely as fungal acne.
What Causes Fungal Acne?
Fungal acne primarily stems from too much sebum, leading to yeast overgrowth. It can be triggered by hot, humid weather that increases sweat and helps yeast grow in hair follicles. Excess sweating also feeds the yeast, making fungal infections more likely.
People with weakened immune systems, whether due to health conditions or certain medications, are at higher risk as their bodies struggle to combat pathogens. Antibiotics, which can kill beneficial skin bacteria, may inadvertently promote fungal acne. Furthermore, this type of acne can spread through direct contact or shared items like clothes and makeup brushes.
Advantages of Natural Remedies for Fungal Infections
Many people like treating fungal infections with natural remedies. They are effective and have few side effects. These methods are gentler compared to conventional chemical treatments. Natural remedies work with the body’s healing and use ingredients that fight infection and reduce inflammation. This approach helps avoid issues like skin irritation or antibiotic resistance. Also, natural are often cheaper and easier to get. They are easier to get than prescription drugs or specialized dermatologist procedures.
natural remedies for fungal acne
Tea Tree Oil: Tea tree oil can effectively treat fungal acne. It is a powerful antifungal and antibacterial agent.
To use it, tea tree oil should be diluted with a carrier oil such as coconut or jojoba to avoid skin irritation. Spread this weak solution on the affected area with a cotton pad. Do a skin test first to avoid allergies.
Aloe Vera: Aloe vera has soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. It reduces the redness of the skin caused by fungal acne.
Direct application of pure aloe vera gel on the skin provides relief. For best results, mix aloe vera with a few drops of tea tree oil before application.
Honey: Honey is famous for its healing properties. It is especially potent against bacteria and fungi because it has natural hydrogen peroxide. This makes it a strong choice for treating fungal acne.
Apply a dab of honey to the affected area twice a day, leaving it on for 30 minutes each time. Ensure it’s washed off thoroughly afterward to avoid skin irritation.
Anti-dandruff Shampoo: For fungal acne on the back and chest, a common tip from dermatologists is to use anti-dandruff shampoo. Ingredients like zinc pyrithione, ketoconazole, and selenium in these shampoos fight fungus. They also work well as a body wash for those prone to fungal infections.
Use a small amount of shampoo on the afflicted region. Allow to sit for 5 minutes before rinsing off. Pat dry with a clean cloth. Afterward, use a mild, fragrance-free lotion to prevent dryness.
Ginger: Ginger is a versatile herb commonly used in Indian cooking. It’s great for treating colds and skin fungal infections. It stops fungal growth. So, it’s in many skincare products, toothpaste, and modern antifungal treatments. Try using a mix of ginger and honey on fungal acne regularly for better skin.
Apple Cider Vinegar: ACV is good for treating fungal skin infections. It kills bacteria and fungi. Studies show it can stop the growth of candida yeast, which often causes these infections. You can either drink a little bit of apple cider vinegar every day or mix it with water and put it on the infected area.
Probiotics: Probiotics are key in treating fungal acne as they balance the skin’s microbiome. You can take them orally or use them on your skin. Eating foods like yogurt, and kefir, helps maintain a healthy gut and skin.
For direct skin use probiotic skincare products. Or apply plain yogurt to the skin for 10-15 minutes. Then, wash it off.
Turmeric: Turmeric contains curcumin, known for its antifungal and anti-inflammatory effects. Make a paste by mixing turmeric powder with water or honey. Apply it to the affected part and wash it off once it has dried.
Jojoba Oil: jojoba oil comes from jojoba shrub seeds. It can repair skin and speed up the healing of acne. It might also lessen inflammation and reduce the redness and swelling of pimples. To use it, apply a few drops directly to the affected area or mix it with your skin cream.
Green Tea: Green tea is rich in natural antioxidants. It can help with acne and works by reducing excess oil in pores and fighting off harmful substances that can damage skin cells. Green tea helps lower oil production in the skin fights acne-causing fungi and reduces inflammation.
How To Prevent Fungal Acne?
To lower the risk of fungal acne, wear loose, breathable clothes and use anti-dandruff shampoo if you have dandruff. Always change into clean clothes after sweating, like post-workout. Also, eat balanced meals and stay active for overall health.
Wrap Up
To sum up, natural remedies are great for treating fungal acne at home. Try tea tea oil, aloe vera, honey, or anti-dandruff shampoo. Use them correctly, like mixing tea tree oil with a carrier or applying honey as it is. Ginger, apple cider vinegar, probiotics, turmeric, jojoba oil, and green tea also help. They heal and lessen inflammation. To prevent fungal acne, wear loose clothes, stay clean after sweating, and eat healthily.
