Pityrosporum folliculitis is a fungal condition in which the
yeast, pityrosporum, invades the hair follicles and multiplies, causing an
itchy flare-up, similar to acne. In fact, pityrosporum folliculitis can sometimes be identified
mistakenly for acne, which can be devastating, since the treatments for acne
serve only to feed the fungi, thus increasing its power and severity.
Pityrosporum , also known as
malassezia, is present naturally on the skin, so hygiene and cleanliness are
not contributory factors to its existence. It occurs most frequently in
teenagers and men, with a tendency to appear on the upper body, chest and back.
Because pityrosporum is already present on the skin, there are no authoritative explanations as to how or why this problem arises. However, the following are a few common factors displayed by those that suffer from pityrosporum folliculitis.
- Hot, humid, sweaty environments in which the yeast flourishes.
- Tight clothing, not allowing the body to breathe.
- Application of greasy sunscreens and oils.
- Oily skin.
- Weakened immune system.
- Stress or fatigue
- Diabetes
- Oral steroids such as prednisone
- Oral contraceptive pill
- Overweight, resulting in more sweating and tighter clothing.
Taking antibiotics kills the
bacteria on the skin which then leaves the pityrosporum unchecked and free to
multiply and invade. For women, taking the oral contraceptive will increase the
chances of suffering from pityrosporum folliculitis.
Pityrosporum folliculitis does not look as bad as
standard folliculitis or hot tub folliculitis, but the itching can be a lot
worse. It will typically
begin with a rash which manifests as bumpy or
rough skin with a mild itch. A few whiteheads may also appear. If not treated,
the itching will become more severe, exacerbated by sweating or hot showers. If
the rash is scratched, it can flare-up into stinging red blotches.
It is essential to treat both the fungi and also the circumstances in which the problem thrives in the first place. If the
causative factors are not addressed, the condition will remain, resulting in
scarring and persistent discomfort.
Pityrosporum folliculitis treatment consists of two options - oral and topical medications. Oral medications, such as Nizoral, are probably the most
effective, but the chance of a recurrence of the problem is high. Topical
treatments, applied to the skin directly, include anti-dandruff shampoo and
anti-fungal cream.
