Acne Awareness Month Special
Think every pimple is the same? Think again. ???? This Acne Awareness Month, let’s dive deep into the world of acne with insights from Dr. Kavitha GV Mandal, Dermatologist & Cosmetologist at SK TruDerma, Sarjapur Road. Not all breakouts are created equal—and understanding the type of acne you’re dealing with is the first step toward effective treatment.
Not All Breakouts Are the Same
Acne is a complex condition that can arise from various factors like clogged pores, oil imbalance, hormonal fluctuations, and even yeast overgrowth. Two of the most common culprits—fungal acne and bacterial acne—may look similar at first glance but have very different causes and require different treatments. ????????
Bacterial Acne: The Usual Suspect
Bacterial acne, also known as acne vulgaris, is the more familiar type. It’s caused by an overgrowth of bacteria (especially Cutibacterium acnes) within clogged pores. Factors like excess oil production, hormonal changes, and improper skincare can make this worse, leading to:
✅ Whiteheads
✅ Blackheads
✅ Pustules
✅ Cysts
Fungal Acne: The Hidden Invader
Fungal acne, medically known as Malassezia folliculitis, is often mistaken for bacterial acne but is actually caused by an overgrowth of yeast that naturally lives on the skin. It thrives in humid conditions and areas of high sweat and oil. Symptoms often include:
✅ Itchy, uniform red bumps
✅ Often appears on the forehead, chest, and back
✅ Doesn’t respond to typical acne treatments
Why Identifying the Right Type Matters
Treating fungal acne with standard acne creams can actually make it worse. Fungal acne needs antifungal treatments (like topical or oral antifungals), while bacterial acne benefits from antibacterial or retinoid-based therapies.
Dr. Kavitha GV Mandal emphasizes:
“Proper diagnosis is crucial. Trying to treat fungal acne with regular acne products can lead to more irritation and prolong your breakouts.”
How to Decode Your Acne
???? If your acne is itchy, uniform, and resistant to standard treatments, you might have fungal acne.
???? If it responds to benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid and tends to come with whiteheads and blackheads, bacterial acne is likely.
???? A dermatologist can help with a precise diagnosis and create a tailored treatment plan.
Your Path to Clearer, Healthier Skin
At SKTruDerma, we believe that knowledge is power. During Acne Awareness Month—and every month—our mission is to empower you with the right information, targeted solutions, and effective skincare tailored to your acne type.
???? Ready to decode your breakouts?
Book a consultation with Dr. Kavitha GV Mandal and let’s pave the way to clearer, healthier skin together.