Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi
New Delhi, Jul 12: While the monsoon offers respite from the scorching summer, the season's humidity can trigger a rise in skin problems, with dermatologists warning that many people mistake fungal acne for regular acne, leading to improper treatment.
According to dermatologist Dr Anwesha Poddar, humid weather during the rainy season increases sweat and oil production, creating ideal conditions for both acne and fungal acne to develop.
She explained that regular acne occurs when pores become clogged with excess oil, sweat, dead skin cells and impurities. Fungal acne, however, is caused by an overgrowth of Malassezia, a yeast that naturally exists on the skin and thrives in warm, humid conditions.
Dr Poddar said the two conditions may appear similar but have distinct characteristics. Regular acne typically presents as blackheads, whiteheads, inflamed pimples and, in severe cases, painful cysts. Fungal acne, on the other hand, usually appears as small, uniform, itchy bumps that occur in clusters, commonly affecting the forehead, chest, shoulders and upper back.
She cautioned against self-medicating, noting that conventional acne treatments target bacteria and clogged pores, but are ineffective against fungal acne. In some cases, using the wrong skincare products can aggravate the condition.
Dermatologists advise seeking medical consultation if breakouts persist despite following a proper skincare routine, as accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment. Depending on the condition, specialists may also recommend advanced procedures for acne scars and skin rejuvenation.
To minimise the risk of skin problems during the monsoon, experts recommend washing the face gently after excessive sweating, using non-comedogenic moisturisers, avoiding heavy and oily skincare products, and refraining from picking or squeezing pimples, which can lead to inflammation and permanent scarring.
Experts emphasise that identifying the symptoms early and opting for appropriate treatment can help maintain healthy skin throughout the rainy season.