What Are Fungal Acne and Seborrheic Dermatitis?
Fungal acne, also called Malassezia folliculitis, is not true acne. It is an overgrowth of a normal skin yeast inside hair follicles that causes small, itchy, look-alike bumps. Seborrheic dermatitis is a related, common condition that causes red, flaky, or greasy patches in oily areas like the scalp, face, and chest. Both are linked to the same family of skin yeast.
What Causes Them
A yeast called Malassezia lives on everyone's skin. In warm, oily, or humid conditions it can grow too much and trigger irritation, itching, and breakouts. Azelaic acid, an ingredient used in dermatology, is itself a dicarboxylic acid naturally produced by Malassezia and has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory actions — which is part of why ingredient choice matters for these conditions. Sage Journals
How Compounding Can Help
Because these conditions often need an antifungal approach rather than standard acne products, a provider may prescribe a custom topical. A compounding pharmacy can prepare options such as:
- Combination creams that pair an antifungal with an anti-inflammatory ingredient
- Custom strengths matched to the prescription
- Vehicle and texture chosen for the affected area (face, scalp, chest, or back)
- Dye-free or preservative-conscious versions for sensitive skin
- A single preparation to simplify a multi-step routine
A Note on Compounded Medicine
Compounded medications are not reviewed or approved by the FDA and are prepared only with a valid prescription. Nothing here promises a specific result, and compounded preparations are not presented as superior to commercially available products.
Talk With Your Provider
If acne-like bumps that itch — or flaky, oily patches — aren't improving with usual products, ask your provider whether a custom antifungal topical may be an option. Call Mixwell at (909) 378-7301 to speak with our pharmacist.
Reference
Feng X, Shang J, Gu Z, Gong J, Chen Y, Liu Y. Azelaic Acid: Mechanisms of Action and Clinical Applications. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2024;17. doi:10.2147/CCID.S485237. PMID: 39464747.