Also known as pityrosporum folliculitis, fungal acne has an entirely different source: a yeast called Malassezia. "Malassezia yeast is a normal inhabitant of our skin, but it can overgrow in ...

If the diagnosis is still in doubt, skin scrapings may be sent for fungal culture, keeping in mind that Malassezia will only grow on a lipid-containing medium, such as Leeming and Notman agar.

Candida is the yeast that most often infects the scalp. The problem can also be caused by Malassezia, a yeast that often causes dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, and folliculitis (inflamed follicles).

Wet dandruff—or dandruff associated with an oily scalp—happens when extra sebum (oil) production on the scalp combines with an overgrowth of Malassezia, a yeast naturally found on the scalp.

But fear not – there are some ways to combat it. The fungus that is the principal cause of dandruff is called Malassezia globosa, and it feeds off the oils on our skin and hair. But when it does ...

Caused by common yeast malassezia, pityriasis versicolor can also be referred to as tinea versicolor. Dr Benar explains: “Pityriasis versicolor is a common fungal infection of the skin.

Nikki A. Levin, MD, PhD, is an Assistant Professor of Medicine, Division of Dermatology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA. Note: The author reported no actual or potential ...