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Fungal Scalp Acne – Causes, Treatment, and Prevention

What is Fungal Scalp Acne?

Fungal scalp acne, also known as Pityrosporum folliculitis or Malassezia folliculitis, is a type of scalp acne caused by an overgrowth of yeast (Malassezia) in the hair follicles. This can lead to small, itchy bumps or pimples on your scalp. Unlike bacterial scalp acne, fungal acne requires antifungal care, meaning products that can reduce excess yeast.

Although it’s not dangerous, fungal scalp acne can be irritating and may be mistaken for regular acne. It typically doesn’t respond to standard acne treatments, so it’s important to use products that are specially formulated to address yeast overgrowth.

Symptoms of fungal acne

  • Small, itchy pimples, especially on the hairline or scalp
  • Oily or irritated scalp, which may be accompanied by flaking
  • Densely similar pimples – no isolated blackheads or whiteheads
  • Itching is often more intense than with regular (bacterial) acne

Signs of Fungal Scalp Acne

A section of the scalp with small, pus-filled bumps and inflammation. This may be caused by an overgrowth of Malassezia yeast, leading to fungal acne.
  • Small, red, or pus-filled bumps that are often similar in size
  • Intense itching or irritation on the scalp
  • Oily or greasy scalp that may also flake (dandruff-like)
  • Bumps that do not improve with typical antibacterial or anti-acne treatments

Why Does Fungal Acne Occur?

Fungal scalp acne is primarily caused by Malassezia yeast multiplying excessively. Several factors can contribute to this:

👉 Humidity and sweating: Warm, moist conditions (like wearing tight hats or sweating heavily) allow yeast to thrive.

👉 Excess oil production: An oily scalp provides “food” for the yeast, fueling faster growth.

👉 Improper scalp care or products: Infrequent washing and heavy, oil-based hair products can clog hair follicles, encouraging yeast to spread.

👉 Stress and hormonal changes: Stress can weaken the scalp’s natural defenses, and hormonal imbalances can increase sebum production.

Recommended Products for Fungal Scalp Acne

How to Treat Fungal Scalp Acne

1. Use an Antifungal Shampoo

  1. Look for dandruff or antifungal shampoos containing ingredients like zinc pyrithione or ketoconazole. These help reduce yeast growth.
  2. Shampoos with salicylic acid can also help by removing excess oil and dead skin cells.

🧴 Recommended products:

2. Gently Exfoliate Once a Week

  1. A mild scalp scrub or clay mask can remove dead skin cells and oil buildup that feed the yeast.
  2. Try a salicylic-acid peel or a clay-based scalp treatment to keep follicles clear.

🧴 Recommended products:

3. Lightweight Hydration

  1. Even if your scalp is oily, it still needs light, oil-free moisture so it doesn’t overproduce sebum as a defense.
  2. Products with tea tree oil or other natural antifungal agents can soothe irritation and limit yeast growth.

🧴 Recommended products:

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Fungal Scalp Acne

How do I know if I have fungal scalp acne instead of regular acne?

Fungal scalp acne often features small, similar-sized bumps that itch significantly, and don’t respond to traditional acne treatments.

If your scalp pimples get better with antifungal products (like dandruff shampoos), it’s likely fungal acne.

Solution:

Check out “Fungal Scalp Acne Products” – View our antifungal range

Need a professional opinion? – Book a scalp analysis

What does “antifungal” mean?

Antifungal means “fungus-fighting.” It’s crucial for fungal scalp acne, as this issue is caused by yeast (Malassezia) overgrowth. Antifungal products typically contain ingredients like zinc pyrithione, ketoconazole, or tea tree oil to reduce the yeast in your scalp.

Solution:

Browse shampoos and treatments specifically formulated with antifungal ingredients – Go to our antifungal section

Do I still need to moisturize an oily scalp if I have fungal acne?

Yes. An oil-free or light moisturizer helps prevent the scalp from becoming overly dry, which can cause it to produce more oil. This “oil rebound” can worsen yeast growth.

Yes. Even if your scalp is oily, it can become overly dry from washing or strong products. A mild, oil-free scalp tonic ensures your skin won’t produce excessive sebum to compensate.

Solution: Look for products that won’t feed yeast (for example, containing tea tree oil or zinc).

Is fungal scalp acne contagious?

Not in the typical sense. Malassezia yeast naturally lives on everyone’s skin. Poor hygiene (like sharing unwashed hats or brushes) can spread yeast, but generally it’s about your own scalp balance being disrupted.

Disinfect brushes and hats regularly.

Keep your scalp’s natural balance by using antifungal or clarifying products if you sweat often.

Why don’t antibiotics help with fungal acne?

Antibiotics target bacteria, not yeast. They may even worsen fungal acne by killing beneficial bacteria that keep yeast in check.

Solution:

Try antifungal shampoos or treatments – View our top fungal-fighting picks

Consult our experts if you’re unsure about the right approach – Contact our specialist