Using an anti-dandruff shampoo for fungal acne is not recommended as they may have different active ingredients, and anti-dandruff shampoos may worsen fungal acne by drying out the skin. It is best to consult with a dermatologist for proper diagnosis and treatment recommendations.
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Using an anti-dandruff shampoo for fungal acne is not recommended as they may have different active ingredients, and anti-dandruff shampoos may worsen fungal acne by drying out the skin.
According to a report by the American Academy of Dermatology, fungal acne is caused by an overgrowth of yeast on the skin, while dandruff is caused by a fungal infection called Malassezia. Though both conditions are caused by fungi, the treatment for both is different.
Using an anti-dandruff shampoo for fungal acne may make the condition worse as these shampoos can be harsh on the skin and can cause dryness, which can exacerbate fungal acne. Anti-dandruff shampoos contain ingredients like pyrithione zinc, coal tar, and salicylic acid, which can be drying and irritating to the skin.
Instead of using an anti-dandruff shampoo, it is best to consult with a dermatologist for proper diagnosis and treatment recommendations. They may prescribe topical or oral antifungal medication depending on the severity of the condition. It is also recommended to maintain good hygiene practices, avoid using oily or greasy products on the skin, and use gentle, fragrance-free cleansers and moisturizers.
In the words of Dr. Joshua Zeichner, the director of cosmetic and clinical research in the department of dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City, “Fungal acne is often mistaken for traditional acne. But using acne-fighting products can worsen the condition, since the acne bacteria are not involved in fungal acne.”
Here is a table summarizing the differences between fungal acne and traditional acne:
| Fungal Acne | Traditional Acne |
|---|---|
| Caused by overgrowth of yeast on the skin | Caused by the acne bacteria Propionibacterium acnes |
| Appears as small, uniform papules and pustules | Appears as larger, inflamed papules and pustules |
| Occur mostly on the chest, back, and shoulders | Occurs mostly on the face, chest, and back |
| Does not respond to traditional acne treatments | May respond to traditional acne treatments |
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Experts confirm that using dandruff shampoo as an acne treatment is legitimate. The active ingredient, zinc pyrithione, has anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antibacterial properties that can reduce yeast counts on the skin and decrease the likelihood of acne breakouts. To use it, apply it as a body or face wash, leave it on for a few minutes, then rinse off and follow your regular skincare routine.
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Dandruff shampoo like Head & Shoulders is safe to use and may help clear up acne for specific skin types including those with fungal acne, however, dermatologists do not recommend using it if you have bacterial acne or traditional acne breakouts.