Treatment guide · Skin Conditions

Fungal Acne in Seoul

Small, itchy, same-size bumps that need antifungal care, not regular acne treatment.

Ask the clinic for: 말라세지아 모낭염 (곰팡이 여드름)

Fungal Acne explained

Fungal acne is not true acne. It is an infection of hair follicles by Malassezia yeast, which lives on normal skin and overgrows in heat, sweat and oily conditions, or after antibiotics. It often itches and does not improve with standard acne products.

How Fungal Acne works

A dermatologist may look at a skin scraping under a microscope to confirm the yeast. Treatment uses antifungal washes or creams, such as ketoconazole, and sometimes oral antifungal medicine for wide or stubborn cases. Oral antifungals need a doctor's prescription in Korea and are not suitable for everyone, including people with some liver conditions or on certain medicines.

Who Fungal Acne is for

• Itchy, uniform bumps on the forehead, chest or back
• Bumps that got worse with antibiotics
• Breakouts that flare in hot, humid weather or after workouts
• People unsure whether they have acne or fungal acne

Who should avoid Fungal Acne

• Using oral antifungals without a prescription
• Pregnancy or liver problems, for some oral antifungals
• Long courses of antibiotics, which can worsen it
• Heavy oils and occlusive balms on affected skin

What happens at the appointment

1. Dermatologist consultation and skin exam
2. Skin scraping or microscope check if needed
3. Antifungal wash, cream or tablets prescribed
4. Advice on sweat, clothing and skincare
5. Follow-up to plan maintenance

Aftercare and flying home

• Shower and change clothes soon after sweating
• Use the antifungal wash as directed, then for maintenance
• Choose light, oil-free moisturisers and sunscreen
• Wear breathable fabrics
• Tell the doctor about any side effects from tablets

Side effects and risks

• Dryness or mild irritation from antifungal washes
• Stomach upset or rare liver effects with oral antifungals
• Recurrence in hot, humid weather
• Dark marks after bumps settle

How much does Fungal Acne cost in Seoul?

₩10,000–₩100,000 per visit (about US$8–75 per visit) — Costs depend on the consultation, any microscope test and prescription medicine. Insured expats usually pay less. Prices are estimates and vary by clinic.

Why get Fungal Acne in Korea?

Seoul dermatology clinics can often confirm fungal acne quickly and at modest cost. Korea's hot, humid summer also makes this a common problem for visitors and expats, so clinics see it often.

Frequently asked questions

How much does fungal acne treatment cost in Seoul?

A dermatologist visit with prescription usually costs about ₩10,000–₩100,000. Tests or uninsured visits may cost more.

Does fungal acne treatment hurt?

No. Treatment is mostly washes, creams or tablets. Some washes may sting slightly on irritated skin.

How long does fungal acne take to go away?

Most people see clear improvement in 2–4 weeks. Many continue a weekly antifungal wash to stop it coming back.

Can I fly while treating fungal acne?

Yes. There is no downtime. Bring your wash or cream and avoid staying in sweaty clothes during travel.

Are oral antifungal pills safe?

They can be safe when prescribed after a doctor's assessment, but they have interactions and liver risks. Never take them without a prescription.

How do I know if it is fungal acne or regular acne?

Fungal acne bumps are small, similar in size, itchy and often on the chest, back or forehead, without blackheads. A dermatologist can confirm it with a quick skin test.

Where to get it in Seoul

Foreigner-friendly clinics cluster around Gangnam, Sinsa–Apgujeong–Cheongdam and Myeongdong. Tap a number to zoom in, then tap a pin to ask the clinic on WhatsApp whether they offer this treatment and for a quote.