Acne is an extremely common skin condition. Most people experience it at some point in their lives.
What many people don’t realize is that “acne” can describe more than one condition. What most people think of as acne is actually caused by bacteria. But, sometimes, acne-like symptoms are caused by an overgrowth of yeast. This particular condition is known as fungal acne or Malassezia folliculitis.
Many people wonder, “Is salicylic acid antifungal?” The good news is that salicylic acid may be helpful in treating fungal acne because it has both keratolytic and antifungal properties. Let’s take a closer look.
What is fungal acne?
Fungal acne isn’t acne at all. It’s a skin condition that looks like acne.
The distinct characteristics of fungal acne
Fungal acne is caused by an overgrowth of Malassezia yeast, a fungus that lives on everyone’s skin. Usually, it’s harmless, but sometimes, it can lead to breakouts that look like acne.
Fungal acne typically shows up as small, uniform bumps on the chest, back, and face.
How to tell fungal acne from bacterial acne
Bacterial acne is caused by bacteria, while fungal acne is caused by yeast. Bacterial acne often shows up as blackheads, whiteheads, and large, inflamed pimples. Fungal acne is more uniform papules.
Another major difference: Bacterial acne will respond to antibiotics, but fungal acne will not.
How does salicylic acid come into play?
You may have heard that salicylic acid can help with fungal acne. Here’s a look at why that might be the case.
Why use salicylic acid for fungal acne?
Salicylic acid is a keratolytic. That means it helps exfoliate dead skin cells that might otherwise clog pores.
Salicylic acid may also have antifungal properties that can help inhibit fungal growth. It helps control oil production, unclog pores, and reduce oiliness. Finally, salicylic acid has anti-inflammatory effects that can reduce the redness and swelling associated with acne.
How salicylic acid works on a cellular level
Salicylic acid breaks down desmosomes, which are the connections between cells. By disrupting these bonds, salicylic acid promotes exfoliation.
Because it’s oil-soluble, salicylic acid can penetrate pores more effectively than water-soluble acids. That’s why it’s often found in products for acne and oily skin.
Finally, salicylic acid promotes cell turnover, which means it encourages the shedding of old skin cells and the growth of new ones. This can help to improve the overall appearance of the skin.
Salicylic acid vs. other ingredients
How does salicylic acid stack up against other well-known skincare ingredients?
Salicylic acid vs. benzoyl peroxide
If you’ve ever had acne, chances are you’ve heard of benzoyl peroxide. It’s a powerhouse when it comes to targeting bacterial acne, because it zeroes in on the bacteria that cause those pimples.
However, benzoyl peroxide isn’t an effective weapon against fungal acne. That’s because it doesn’t do much to fight the Malassezia yeast that’s responsible for fungal acne.
Salicylic acid, on the other hand, can take on both bacterial and fungal acne, which is one reason it’s such a popular ingredient.
Salicylic acid vs. other acids (lactic and caprylic acid)
Lactic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA). It’s gentler than salicylic acid and mostly works by exfoliating the surface of your skin.
Caprylic acid is known for its antifungal properties, but it’s not really known as an exfoliant.
Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that gives you the best of both worlds: It exfoliates, and it has antifungal properties.
How to use salicylic acid as part of your skincare routine
If you and your doctor think salicylic acid is right for you, here’s how to add it to your daily skin care habits.
Step 1: Choose the right product
You can find salicylic acid in several forms, including:
- Face washes. These are easy to add to your daily routine.
- Topical creams or serums. These allow you to apply the ingredient to a specific area.
- Chemical exfoliants. These offer a deeper treatment.
Step 2: Test a small area first
Before using any new product on your face, it’s essential to test a small area of skin. This is especially important if you have sensitive skin or a history of allergic reactions. A patch test can help you see if you’ll have a bad reaction to the product.
To do a patch test, apply a small amount of the product to a discreet area like your inner arm and wait 24 to 48 hours. If you notice any redness, itching, swelling, or blistering, stop using the product.
Step 3: Apply the product
When you start using a salicylic acid product, begin with a low concentration to reduce the risk of irritation.
You can use the product in the morning or evening, depending on the type of product you choose and how well your skin tolerates it.
Step 4: Watch and adjust
It’s important to pay attention to how your skin responds to salicylic acid.
Watch for signs of irritation or dryness. If you notice these issues, try using the product less often. For example, you might reduce your use to every other day or just a few times a week.
Common mistakes to avoid
Salicylic acid can be a great addition to your skincare routine, but you should be aware of the most common mistakes people make, which include:
- Overusing it. When you overuse salicylic acid, it damages your skin and throws off its natural oil balance, leading to even more problems.
- Using comedogenic products. These products clog your pores.
- Forgetting sunscreen. Salicylic acid increases your skin’s sensitivity to the sun, so sunscreen is a must.
The role of the microbiome
The skin microbiome is a community of bacteria, fungi, and viruses that live on the surface of your skin.
The skin microbiome and acne
A balanced skin microbiome is essential for long-term acne treatment and prevention. When the microbiome is out of balance, it can contribute to acne.
When the balance of your skin’s microbiome is disrupted, you can get an overgrowth of yeast that leads to fungal acne. Fungal acne is more itchy than other forms of acne and tends to be located on the chest and back more often than the face.
Probiotic supplements
Probiotics are live microorganisms that can provide health benefits when consumed. Some people take probiotic supplements to support a balanced gut microbiome, which may also benefit the skin.
But more research is needed to fully understand the role of probiotics in skin health. While there’s evidence that probiotics can help with certain skin conditions, the exact mechanisms and the most effective strains are still being studied.
Other treatment and prevention strategies
While salicylic acid can help, you’ll probably want to use it in conjunction with other strategies to keep the fungus at bay:
- Good hygiene: Wash your skin regularly, and change your clothes frequently, especially after you’ve been sweating.
- Loose-fitting clothing: Tight clothes can trap moisture and cause friction, both of which encourage fungal growth, highlighting the role of environmental factors affecting fungal growth.
- Antifungal shampoos or body washes: Look for products containing ketoconazole or selenium sulfide to help control the fungus, or consider whether miconazole cream is available over-the-counter.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kills fungus permanently?
Completely eradicating a fungal infection depends on the type of fungus and the location of the infection. While some antifungal medications can effectively eliminate certain fungi, others may require ongoing management to prevent recurrence. Consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Will salicylic acid help an ingrown toenail?
Salicylic acid can soften the skin around an ingrown toenail, making it easier to gently lift the nail and relieve pressure. However, it’s not a cure for the underlying problem. For persistent or severe ingrown toenails, professional medical attention is recommended.
Does salicylic acid get rid of bacteria?
Salicylic acid is primarily an exfoliant and anti-inflammatory agent, not a direct antibacterial agent. While it can help create an environment less conducive to bacterial growth by removing dead skin cells, it doesn’t directly kill bacteria like an antibiotic would.
Does salicylic acid treat fungal infections?
While salicylic acid itself isn’t an antifungal medication, it can be used as an adjunct treatment for certain fungal infections. By exfoliating the skin, it can help antifungal medications penetrate more effectively. However, it’s crucial to use salicylic acid in conjunction with a prescribed antifungal treatment, not as a standalone remedy.
How do you use salicylic acid as an antifungal?
Salicylic acid isn’t used as an antifungal, but with one. Typically, you’d apply a salicylic acid product to the affected area to remove dead skin and scales. Then, after allowing the area to dry, you’d apply a prescribed antifungal cream or solution, such as clotrimazole lotion. Always follow your doctor’s or pharmacist’s instructions carefully.
The takeaway
Salicylic acid can be a great tool in your arsenal for dealing with fungal acne, thanks to its ability to break down skin cells and fight fungus. But while it’s effective, it’s not a magic bullet.
For the best results, you should take a more holistic approach. Make sure you’re using the right skincare products, eating a healthy diet, and generally living a lifestyle that promotes a balanced skin microbiome.
Ultimately, the best thing to do is talk to a dermatologist. They can give you personalized advice and create a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. This personalized approach will give you the best chance of clearing up your fungal acne and keeping it away for good.