Skip to main content

Top 11 Best Products for Fungal Acne on Face

Written by Andrew Le, MD

UpdatedJuly 31, 2024

Fungal acne or pityrosporum folliculitis is a type of acne characterized as an infectious condition resulting form overgrowth of yeast on the skin. It manifests in numerous red bumps that are often found on the forehead, cheeks, and chin. Different medications used in regular acne are not changing the different type of acne, but there are special products that can help.

We dedicated many hours to search and compare different available products in order to find the most effective ones for treating fungal acne on the face. Here in the next sections, we will provide you best recommendations that you can use to get rid of fungal acne and avoid it from coming back.

Top 3 Best Products for Fungal Acne on Face

  1. DermaRite Dermafungal Antifungal Cream
  2. Paradise Emerald Cystic Acne Spot Treatment
  3. TreeActiv Cystic Acne Spot Treatment

If you are among the many people who are facing the challenge of having fungal acne on the face, you are not alone. While this can be quite an annoying condition to have to face, there are some products that are out there in the market that may be of some assistance. These products on the list can be used even on the most sensitive skin.


DermaRite Dermafungal Antifungal Cream

Editor's Choice

DermaRite Dermafungal Antifungal Cream

DermaRite Dermafungal Antifungal Cream is a moisture shield that combats inflammation and odor ideal for an active person. However, it is worth emphasizing that the outcomes require time; that is why patience is one of the most valuable assets in such a process. Affordable and worth it.

See Price on Amazon

For a treatment of the fungal acne on your face, DermaRite Dermafungal Antifungal Cream is one of the best antifungal creams out there.

Pros

  • Builds up a sweat proof layer on the skin and halts smell
  • Active ingredient: miconazole nitrate 2 percent:
  • Packaged in a value size that is 3. 75 oz tube

Cons

  • May take some time to see visible results
  • Not recommended to those with sensitive skin

We have used DermaRite Dermafungal Antifungal Cream for treatment of fungal acne on our faces where it has been very successful in reducing inflammation and redness of the skin. The cream creates a moisture seal on the skin and checks the formation of odour which is quite beneficial for the sporty people. The primary component of the lotion is miconazole nitrate 2 percent, which is an effective antifungal agent that assist in the elimination of the fungus causing the acne.

However, it may take some days for the cream’s effects to manifest. It should also be noted that those with delicate complexion may experience some sort of skin sensitivity such as razer like sensation or skin dryness.

All in all, DermaRite Dermafungal Antifungal Cream is the best antifungal cream for topical application to address the fungal acne on one’s face. It is easy to apply, is dispensed in a tube that is rather convenient and has a nice smell.


Paradise Emerald Cystic Acne Spot Treatment

Paradise Emerald Cystic Acne Spot Treatment

See Price on Amazon

We recommend the use of the Paradise Emerald Cystic Acne Spot Treatment to ANYONE who has cystic, hormonal or difficult acne.

Pros

  • The enhanced bottle design allows for extended use without drying out.
  • This soft and completely organic exfoliating peel has salicylic acid, tea tree oil, as well as aloe-vera to prevent the recurrence of pimples.
  • It targets and clears up active pimples and formations while at the same time preventing new formations of pimples.

Cons

  • The scent is strong and medicinal.
  • May not be aesthetically pleasing.

When we apply the Paradise Emerald Cystic Acne Spot Treatment, we experienced better skin and smoother complexion especially if one has cystic acne. The cream was useful in managing existing cystic acne and at the same time, no new cystic acne formation was observed among the patients. For this reason, the new design of the bottles enabled me to use the product and not have the problem of the pots drying up.

The natural and mild treatment with salicylic acid, tea tree oil, and aloe promoted skin’s oil regulation and acne recurrence. However, it had a very strong smell and had sort of a medicinal feel to it and the cream itself is not a very appetizing light brown color.

For all those who are suffering from cystic, hormonal, or severe type of acne, the Paradise Emerald Cystic Acne Spot Treatment works wonderfully.


TreeActiv Cystic Acne Spot Treatment

TreeActiv Cystic Acne Spot Treatment

See price on Amazon

If you want a well-proven and organ-nourishing cystic acne remedy, you might want to try the TreeActiv Cystic Acne Spot Treatment.

Pros

  • This treatment works effectively to treat cystic acne, the ingredients used include Bentonite Clay, Sulfur, and Tea Tree Oil which can help extract and on the same note, drying cystic acne.
  • It proves to be quite versatile as it can be used over 120 times with just one 0. 5oz container.
  • It eliminates cystic acne on the skin in a very short time of not more than 20 minutes and one can actually see the results.

Cons

  • Some users may not like the smell of sulfur.
  • It may not work for everyone.

Our experience has been positive with TreeActiv Cystic Acne Spot Treatment, this product works in removing cystic acne. The Bentonite Clay has skin soothes properties while the Tea Tree Oil plus the Sulfur dries out the acne. That it is vegan, cruelty-free, and paraben-free moreover makes it a good spot treatment for cystic pimples.

As for the spot treatment, TreeActiv also has a 5 Step Acne Treatment Kit which is a set of acne face wash, acne face cream, salicylic acid acne toner, acne face scrub, an also acne patches. This is a great kit that we suggest to be used as a total acne skin care system.

Overall, if you want natural cystic acne treatment which works well, it is worth if you try TreeActiv Cystic Acne Spot Treatment.


Paula's Choice Clear Back & Body Exfoliating Acne Spray

Paula's Choice Clear Back & Body Exfoliating Acne Spray

See price on Amazon

Our top pick for a body acne spray with a thick formula is Paula’s Choice Clear – Back & Body Exfoliating Acne Spray.

Pros

  • The formula of this product is such that it is very convenient to spray it on spots that you might find difficult to reach such as the back.
  • The 2% salicylic acid gets into pores to rid the skin of such difficulties as bumps, pimples, and blackheads while not harming the skin.
  • The leave-on exfoliant is safe for everyday use on all skin type.

Cons

  • The smell can be a bit strong at first.
  • Results may take time to be noticeable.

Paula’s Choice Clear Over Merged Back and Body Acne Spray helps in combating acne and prevents the formation of new pimples without causing any skin itching. It can be sprayed on areas that are difficult to reach for instance your back and salicylic acid at 2% is added to effectively remove bumps, pimples and black heads without causing harm to the skin.

Furthermore, this product does not cause irritation and can be used every day by all skin types and it smoothly works for the removal of fine lines and wrinkles.

Paula’s choice clear back & body exfoliating acne spray is one of the best body acne treatments that we would like to recommend. Regular use the lotion and you will note a positive change in the complexion of your skin.


HydroPeptide Spot Correction, Acne Treatment, Anti-Wrinkle and Clarify, 0.5 Ounce

HydroPeptide Spot Correction, Acne Treatment, Anti-Wrinkle and Clarify, 0.5 Ounce

See price on Amazon

If you need a spot gel that not only fights acne, but removes the dullness and dead skin cells from the face then the HydroPeptide Spot Correction is the gel you need. It has niacinamide which is a type of vitamin b3, lactic acid, peptides, and sulfur that eradicates acne pimples, localized and or spreading, without over-drying the affected skin.

Pros

  • The improved mix of niacinamide, lactic acid, peptides, and sulfur minimises chances of the skin breaking out again and promotes the right cell shedding.
  • It is gluten-free, paraben-free, phthalate-free, and non-SO free and is not tested on animals.
  • Formulated by a geneticist apart from addressing the issues of acne, it also diminishes skin tone and removes skin debris.

Cons

  • May not be suitable for sensitive skin.
  • It may take a few weeks to see visible results.

I have been using HydroPeptide Spot Correction for a few weeks now and my skin has positively changed for the better. That is a cream-like product that has a light feel on the skin type and quickly gets absorbed into the skin without any oily feeling. I have been applying it everyday once in the morning and at night and so far it does not cause my skin to become irritated or red.

This is supplemented with a custom solution of niacinamide, lactic acid, peptides and sulfur do not allow new pimples to form on my face and reduce their size. I have also observed that my skin became clearer and it has even pores because the red spots were minimized.

Overall, I noticed that my skin became a little dry and flaky, especially around the areas that I apply lotion near my nose and around the mouth. Thus, it was necessary to reduce the usage frequency in order not to aggravate the problem even more.


ENVIO Medical Grade Acne Treatment

ENVIO Medical Grade Acne Treatment

See price on Amazon

If you want an over the counter remedy for acne that has medical grade technology then ENVIO Medical Grade Acne Treatment is the solution to your woes.

Pros

  • Dermatologist recommended
  • Prescription-grade power
  • Proprietary blend of natural extracts to soothe irritated skin

Cons

  • May not be effective on severe acne cases
  • May take time to see results

We have tried ENVIO Medical Grade Acne Treatment and our skin has improved. The 2% Gel Serum SA (Salicylic Acid) Gel Serum is a Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA) which in a natural process exfoliates, prevents pore blockage and minimizes acne formation and also aids in the desquamation of the skin. The natural ingredients extracts are White Willow Bark, Green Tea, Allantoin and Lavender reaching to the skin to calm irritation.

Furthermore, the product is dermatologist recommended and has prescription strength. However, some of the people particularly those with sensitive skin may feel a stinging feeling when they are using this particular product; this product does not help people with severe cases of acne. It can also be often slow to produce its effects.

All in all, we can say that ENVIO Medical Grade Acne Treatment is a perfect solution for acne problem and it is a non-prescription acne treatment with medical grade quality.


Kinship Pimple Potion 2% BHA + Retinal Acne Treatment

Kinship Pimple Potion 2% BHA + Retinal Acne Treatment

See price on Amazon

If you want a vegan, cruelty-free acne solution, free of any harsh chemicals but at the same time efficient in fighting pimples, then you should try the Kinship Pimple Potion 2% BHA + Retinal Acne Treatment.

Pros

  • It reduces the appearance of my skin and effectively clears up blackheads, whiteheads, as well as pimples but does not cause the skin to bum or itch.
  • It promotes skin renewal.
  • It includes Kinbiome™ Kinship, the brand’s plant-based probiotic that helps in achieving supple and clear skin.

Cons

  • It may not work for everyone.
  • Results may take time to be noticeable.

In a few weeks, we decided to use the Kinship Pimple Potion 2% BHA + Retinal Acne Treatment for an all-over face treatment of this skin type where the number of black and white heads were greatly minimized. The product is quite emollient, low on the greasiness scale thanks to its light, silky feel on the skin’s surface and with a fast setting property. I also employed it as a spot treatment and wanted to mention that it effectively heals the pimples without side effects such as skin dryness.

Furthermore, the product has Retinal – which clears the skin, Bakuchiol that prevents breakouts and Salicylic acid which is also gody to remove oil and dead skin cells. The plant derived special probiotic used in the product also helps in achieving good skin health and a healthy skin barrier. We understand that the product is clean and vegan, not tested on animals while the packaging is eco-friendly coming in a tube.

In conclusion we can recommend the Kinship’s Pimple Potion 2% BHA + Retinal Acne Treatment to all those who want clean, not destructive acne treatment.


QRxLabs Glycolic/Salicylic Acid 10/2 Acne Control Pads

QRxLabs Glycolic/Salicylic Acid 10/2 Acne Control Pads

See price on Amazon

If you are in search of a face wash that quickly successfully deal with the effects of Fungal acne then QRxLabs Glycolic/Salicylic Acid 10/2 Acne Control Pads should be your number one choice.

Pros

  • These pads consist of 10% Glycolic Acid and 2% medical-grade Salicylic Acid solution that successfully eliminates the complexion clogging.
  • The pads are enriched with Vitamin B5, which is a healing vitamin whilst Vitamins C and E are antioxidants that will enhance the skin’s ability to rebuild and hydrate photo damaged skin from UV exposure.
  • The pads come with Allantoin and Green Tea & Calendula Extracts for skin calming and defending feature besides being an anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant.

Cons

  • The pads are not recommended on sensitive skin.
  • The pads may not work for everyone.

We used the QRxLabs Glycolic/Salicylic Acid 10/2 Acne Control Pads and reported the following; We saw a great improvement in the skin texture and reducing the number of pimples that appeared in a few weeks of its usage. This is a sample of a convenient pad to use; the non-woven textured pads make it possible to apply the pads without much effort. We also like that the pads are produced using quality ingredients and that the brand does not test their products on animals.

Overall, if you have issues with the fungal acne on your face, Glycolic/Salicylic Acid 10/2 Acne Control Pads of QRxLabs will work well. Peel is a fast and efficient remedy that might assist in obtaining more appealing skin with fewer imperfections.


AcneFree Terminator 10 Acne Spot Treatment

AcneFree Terminator 10 Acne Spot Treatment

See price on Amazon

For those having moderate to severe acne, it is our top pick, the AcneFree Terminator 10 Acne Spot Treatment. This product is expected to work effectively in minimizing most of the acne pimples and is basically manufactured to treat acne.

Pros

  • The product contains 10% Micronized Benzoyl Peroxide to penetrate the skin efficiently and go deep into the pores.
  • The redness control cream is a recommended cream as it is developed by experts such as the dermatologist.
  • The treatment can help to successfully get rid of acne bacteria.

Cons

  • The product may burn a bit on sensitive skin.
  • May not be effective on everyone.

We applied this product and experienced that it serves its purpose effectively by clearing the skin. In case of any acne problem we directly apply the treatment on it, initially, we apply it once at day and if required it is use 2-3 times a day. Some of the benefits that we have noted with regular use of this product include; gains in improvement of the look of skin.

Overall, AcneFree Terminator 10 Acne Spot Treatment is a product that is efficient in the treatment of acne among those severe acne victims. It uses 10% Micronised Benzoyl Peroxide that penetrates deep into the skin pores faster as compared to the normal Benzoyl Peroxide but it does not cause over-drying and irritation as seen with the normal Benzoyl Peroxide. It is approved by dermatologist and can ·eradicate face ace bacteria.


CIZ Acne Spot Treatment

CIZ Acne Spot Treatment

See price on Amazon

If you are one of those who get hard node acnes on your face, then the CIZ Acne Spot Treatment is highly advised for use.

Pros

  • Works for both occasionally occurring and persistent hormonal/cystic acne.
  • Quick working and tones down the acne spots within a day.
  • Comes highly recommended by dermatologists

Cons

  • Strong medicinal smell
  • May not be effective on all skin types

What we loved was that CIZ Acne Spot Treatment worked very fast to effective the acne spots we had on our faces. Combined with other elements for the treatment that are such as salicylic acid and tea-tree oil, it works on pimples and keeps others from developing. It also has a skin healing nature that makes it helpful in clearing out skin related issues hence the clear skin we are left with.

Furthermore, the cystic acne spot treatment that was unique to the product efficiently eased inflammation, redness, and pain as experienced with the deep and painful pimples. We also liked that the salicylic acne spot treatment reduced sebum secretion and managed to also dissolve dead skin cells and bacteria, which are causes of hormonal acne.

Overall, the CIZ Acne Spot Treatment is a potent, benchmarked skin care product for the individuals suffering from acne problem. Our test confirmed that it is one of the most efficient and quickest acting remedies not only for the average but also for the severe acne.


Natrulo Pyrithione Zinc Soap Bar

Natrulo Pyrithione Zinc Soap Bar

See price on Amazon

If you want a natural soap that could effectively eliminate the fungi causing acne on the face, the Natrulo Pyrithione Zinc Soap Bar is the best one.

Pros

  • The 2% pyrithione zinc makes it useful in washing the skin and gives the skin a soothing feeling making it a pyrithione zinc face wash.
  • Coconut oil helps in moisturizing and acts as a shield to the skin and hence it is a good body wash zinc soap.
  • The colloidal oatmeal make the skin’s pH level to be neutralized thus suitable for those individuals who use zinc soap for rosacea.

Cons

  • The scent is very light and almost unnoticeable.
  • Some users complained of dryness or tightness after using the soap.

We have been using this zinc soap bar for the past few weeks and we observed that our skin has improved tremendously. It foams up nicely and washes off intact, which is why our skin comes out feeling as if it has had a good wash. It must be noted that it contains natural ingredients such as coconut oil and colloidal oatmeal; while the 2% pyrithione zinc helps to address problems like fungal acne and other relevant skin issues.

However, the scent is almost unnoticeable, that may gain some unfavorable comments from people who like the strong smell. Also, some users reported experiencing dry skin especially after taking a shower with the soap as it is suggested to apply a moisturizer after soaping.

Buying Guide

Ingredients

For controlling fungal ance, seek products containing antifungal ingredients such as ketoconazole, tea tree oil, and/or salicylic acid. Some of these can aid in the elimination of the fungi that result in acne and avoid an additional occurrence. Moreover, products that contain the substances like aloe vera or chamomile will be good to reduce inflammation and redness.

Formulation

Weight should also be given to the formulation of the product. When it comes to the solutions for the fungal acne on face creams and ointments are preferred than gels and spray. This is due to the fact that creams and ointments can be administered at the specific area of skin affected and are not likely to cause drying out of the skin.

Skin Type

Select a product depending on the type of the skin a person has. You should avoid oils and creams that clog pores when you have oily skin; it is recommended to use oil-free and non-comedogenic products. Sensitive skin or dry types of skin should be given a priority to when choosing the products to use.

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes fungal acne?

Fungal acne, also known as pityrosporum folliculitis, is characterized by the overgrowth of a normally occurring skin fungus. It is a type of yeast than is naturally existing on the skin and when it multiplies quickly, it forms red bumps other skin regions such as the face, neck, chest, and back causing acne-like skin condition.

What can I use for fungal acne on my face?

In case you think you have fungal acne it wise to consult a dermatologist for confirmation and appropriate treatment. Your physician may prescribe antifungal drugs or topical creams and gels with ketoconazole, ciclopirox, sulfur, and others. To prevent worsening of the fungal acne one should not attempt to treat the condition with the regular over the counter acne lotions containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid.

What products should I use for fungal acne?

Using products containing the antifungal agents like ketoconazole or sulfur can be helpful in the eradication of fungal acne. Also, it is recommended to purchase extremely soft derivatives that are not comedogenic, that means these products will not contribute to clogging the pores of the skin. Seek products that are Fungal acne safe or Malassezia safe products in the market.

What kills Malassezia yeast on face?

Products containing ketoconazole, ciclopirox or sulfur are helpful in eradicating Malassezia yeast on the face. Tea tree oil and pyrithione zinc also decrease the growth of Malassezia yeast which affects this skin condition.

Is salicylic acid good for fungal acne?

Salicylic acid should not be used for treating fungal acne because it only tends to worsen the condition of the skin. Salicylic acid is largely effective as a keratolytic agent for the removal of the outermost layers of skin which can aggravate fungal acne skin type. One has to ensure that they purchase products meant for use in treating fungal acne.

Affiliate Disclosure:
The links provided may earn us a small commission at no additional cost to you if you choose to purchase the recommended product. This support allows our research and editorial team to continue providing high-quality recommendations. As a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising initiative, we are able to earn advertising fees through providing links to products on Amazon.com. Please rest assured that we only recommend high-quality products.