Can you get rid of fungal acne with diet? A nutritional approach

October 29, 2025 •

4 min read

Affecting as many as 50 million people in the United States, acne is a common skin condition, but not all breakouts are created equal. The non-bacterial form, known as fungal acne or Malassezia folliculitis, is caused by a yeast overgrowth. So, can you get rid of fungal acne with diet? While diet isn't a standalone cure, specific nutritional adjustments are crucial for managing symptoms and preventing recurrence.

Quick Summary

Fungal acne, caused by an overgrowth of malassezia yeast, can be influenced by diet, as the yeast thrives on sugars and certain carbs. A dietary approach involves limiting high-glycemic foods, refined sugars, and some dairy, while increasing intake of anti-inflammatory and gut-supporting foods like probiotics, antioxidants, and healthy fats.

Key Points

Identify the Cause: Fungal acne is caused by Malassezia yeast overgrowth, not bacteria, which means traditional acne treatments may be ineffective or harmful.
Starve the Yeast: A key dietary strategy is to limit the foods that feed the Malassezia yeast, primarily high-sugar foods and refined carbohydrates.
Adopt an Anti-Inflammatory Diet: Incorporate foods rich in omega-3s, antioxidants, and healthy fats to calm inflammation and support overall skin health.
Heal Your Gut: The gut-skin axis plays a crucial role. Add probiotic-rich foods like unsweetened yogurt and prebiotics to balance your gut microbiome.
Combine with Topical Treatment: For best results, use dietary changes in conjunction with an antifungal topical wash or medication prescribed by a dermatologist.
Manage Lifestyle Factors: Maintain good hygiene, wear breathable clothing, and manage stress to create an environment where the yeast is less likely to flourish.

Fungal acne, or Malassezia folliculitis, is a frustrating and often misunderstood skin condition. Unlike common acne, it is caused by an overgrowth of a naturally occurring yeast on the skin, not bacteria. This distinction is vital because a one-size-fits-all acne treatment, particularly those using antibacterial agents, can actually make fungal acne worse by disrupting the skin's natural microbiome. The Malassezia yeast feeds on sebum (skin oil) and certain dietary elements, meaning that internal health is just as important as external treatment.

The Gut-Skin Axis and Malassezia

Research has increasingly highlighted the intricate connection between gut health and skin health, known as the gut-skin axis. An imbalanced gut microbiome, which can be influenced by diet, stress, and medications like antibiotics, can affect the immune system and promote inflammatory responses. For individuals with fungal acne, a diet high in sugar and refined carbohydrates can create an environment where Malassezia and other yeasts thrive both internally and externally. Reducing the yeast's primary food source is a powerful way to manage its overgrowth and support clearer, calmer skin from the inside out.

Foods to Limit or Avoid

To reduce the fuel for Malassezia yeast, certain foods and ingredients should be limited or avoided altogether, particularly during a flare-up. An elimination-style approach, where you remove potential triggers for a few weeks before reintroducing them, can help you identify your personal sensitivities.

High-Sugar Foods: This is a major one, as yeast feeds directly on sugar. Avoid soda, candies, cakes, pastries, and any processed desserts with high sugar content.
Refined Carbohydrates: Processed foods like white bread, pasta, and baked goods can cause spikes in blood sugar, which promotes yeast growth. Stick to whole grains and low-glycemic options instead.
Dairy Products (especially milk): Some studies show a link between dairy consumption, specifically milk and whey protein, and acne. This is believed to be due to dairy's effect on insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), which can increase sebum production. While not all dairy products are universally bad, many find that cutting back on milk and cheese helps.
Excessive Alcohol: Alcohol can disrupt the gut microbiome and potentially weaken the immune system, creating a more favorable environment for yeast to flourish.
Certain Fermented Foods: While probiotics are generally good, some fermented drinks like kombucha and beer contain types of yeast that may not be beneficial for Malassezia overgrowth. Pay close attention to how your skin reacts.

Foods to Include for Clearer Skin

Incorporating anti-inflammatory, gut-supporting foods can help rebalance your system and create a less hospitable environment for Malassezia. An anti-fungal diet is often rich in whole, nutrient-dense foods.

Low-Sugar Fruits: Berries, green apples, and lemons are excellent choices. They provide antioxidants and fiber without causing rapid blood sugar spikes.
Lean Proteins: Opt for chicken, turkey, fish, and eggs. These provide essential amino acids for tissue repair without excessive fats that feed the yeast.
Healthy Fats and Omega-3s: Anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids, found in fatty fish like salmon, sardines, and mackerel, can help reduce skin inflammation. Avocados, nuts, and extra virgin olive oil are also excellent sources of healthy fats.
Gut-Supportive Foods: Probiotics from unsweetened yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut can help balance the gut microbiome. Prebiotic foods like bananas, oats, and asparagus can help feed the good bacteria.
Antifungal Herbs and Spices: Incorporate natural anti-fungal ingredients like garlic, ginger, and turmeric into your cooking.
Non-Starchy Vegetables: Load up on leafy greens, broccoli, spinach, and other vegetables. They provide essential vitamins and fiber without feeding the yeast.

Dietary Strategies vs. Topical Treatments


Strategy	Mechanism	Effect
Dietary Changes	Manages internal factors; reduces sugar and refined carbs that feed yeast; promotes gut health.	Supports overall skin health; reduces the frequency and severity of fungal acne flare-ups by addressing the root cause from within.
Topical Antifungals	Directly targets the Malassezia yeast on the skin's surface with antifungal ingredients like pyrithione zinc or selenium sulfide.	Treats active infections and clears existing bumps and inflammation relatively quickly.
Combination Approach	A holistic strategy that combines internal management (diet) with external treatment (antifungals).	Optimal for long-term control. Clears active breakouts while preventing future recurrences by addressing both external and internal triggers.

Holistic Management for Long-Term Results

While diet is a powerful tool, it's most effective when used as part of a comprehensive management strategy. Consider these holistic steps:

Use Fungal Acne-Safe Skincare: The Malassezia yeast can also feed on specific oils and fatty acids found in many skincare products. Look for non-comedogenic, oil-free products and avoid those containing ingredients like coconut oil, olive oil, and esters. For a guide to safe products, you can explore resources like the one from Perfect Medical.
Maintain Good Hygiene: Since the yeast thrives in warm, moist environments, showering immediately after sweating is crucial, especially after exercising. Use an antifungal body wash on affected areas.
Wear Breathable Fabrics: Tight-fitting, non-breathable clothing can trap sweat and heat against the skin, promoting yeast growth. Opt for loose-fitting, natural fabrics like cotton instead.
Manage Stress and Sleep: Stress and poor sleep can impact your immune system and overall health, potentially affecting your skin's balance. Incorporate mindfulness and prioritize sleep for better skin outcomes.

Conclusion

So, can you get rid of fungal acne with diet? The answer is that diet is a vital component of managing and preventing fungal acne, but it's not a sole cure. By adopting an anti-fungal nutritional strategy that limits sugars and refined carbs while emphasizing anti-inflammatory and gut-supportive foods, you can significantly reduce the underlying factors contributing to flare-ups. For the best long-term results, combine these dietary changes with an effective topical antifungal treatment and other healthy lifestyle habits. Always consult a dermatologist to confirm your diagnosis and create a personalized treatment plan.

Frequently Asked Questions

The primary cause of fungal acne, or Malassezia folliculitis, is an overgrowth of Malassezia yeast that naturally lives on the skin. This overgrowth leads to clogged hair follicles and breakouts.

Diets high in refined carbohydrates and sugar can fuel Malassezia growth. While you may not need to eliminate all carbs, choosing low-glycemic, whole-grain options over refined ones can help manage the condition.

Yes, probiotics can be beneficial. By promoting a balanced and healthy gut microbiome, probiotics can help reduce inflammation and discourage yeast overgrowth, supporting skin health.

Some studies suggest that dairy, particularly milk and whey protein, can increase IGF-1 and insulin levels, potentially worsening acne. Many people find that limiting or eliminating dairy helps reduce flare-ups.

Dietary changes aren't a quick fix and results vary. Consistency is key. Many people may see improvements within a few weeks, but significant, lasting change can take months.

No, you don't need to avoid all fermented foods. Probiotic-rich fermented foods like unsweetened yogurt and kefir can be helpful. However, some fermented drinks like kombucha and beer might contain yeasts that could worsen the condition for some individuals.

An anti-fungal diet is a powerful management tool but not a complete cure. It addresses internal triggers. For the most effective treatment, it should be combined with a topical antifungal regimen recommended by a healthcare professional.