**Miami Beach Bugs: Is Salt Air Brewing Pores' Yeast?**

By Franklin Everett Shaw

December 29, 2025

The constant humidity clinging to your skin, the salty breeze that never truly lets up – it’s paradise, right? For many of us living in Miami Beach, it is. But for some, this tropical climate is a breeding ground for an unwelcome guest: Malassezia folliculitis, or what’s often mistaken for stubborn acne. It’s not your typical teenage breakout; it’s a fungal infection thriving in our humid haven.

This isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about comfort and confidence. Let’s dive into how to identify, treat, and prevent this frustrating skin condition, specifically tailored for those of us living the Miami Beach life.

First, let’s talk about identification. Forget what you think you know about acne. Malassezia folliculitis, often called “fungal acne,” presents differently. Instead of blackheads and whiteheads, you’ll typically see:

• Small, uniform, itchy bumps. These are usually red and inflamed.
• Clusters of these bumps, often on the chest, back, and upper arms, but also the face.
• A lack of response to traditional acne treatments like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. In fact, these can sometimes make it worse!

Think of it this way: if your “acne” is intensely itchy and doesn’t respond to your usual routine, fungal acne is a strong possibility.

Now, where can you find relief right here in Miami Beach? The good news is that several over-the-counter (OTC) options are readily available at local pharmacies like Walgreens (multiple locations on Collins Ave) and CVS (Lincoln Road and Alton Road). Look for products containing:

• Ketoconazole: This is an antifungal medication. You can find it in shampoos like Nizoral. While it’s a shampoo, you can use it as a body wash on affected areas. Leave it on for 5-10 minutes before rinsing.
• Selenium sulfide: Another antifungal ingredient, often found in dandruff shampoos like Selsun Blue. Use it similarly to ketoconazole shampoo.
• Pyrithione zinc: This is a milder antifungal, often found in soaps and cleansers. It’s a good option for maintenance or milder cases.

Important: When using these shampoos as body washes, always do a patch test first to check for any allergic reactions. Apply a small amount to an inconspicuous area (like your inner arm) and wait 24 hours.

Beyond OTC treatments, consider consulting a dermatologist. Miami Beach has some excellent options. Dr. Loretta Ciraldo at Dr. Loretta Skincare (though primarily focused on skincare products, she offers consultations) and Dr. Anna Avaliani on Collins Avenue are both highly regarded. A dermatologist can provide a definitive diagnosis (often through a skin scraping) and prescribe stronger antifungal medications if needed, such as oral antifungals or topical creams like clotrimazole or miconazole.

One common mistake people make is self-treating for too long without seeing a doctor. If your symptoms don’t improve after a few weeks of using OTC treatments, it’s time to seek professional help. You might be dealing with something else entirely, or you might need a stronger prescription.

But treatment is only half the battle. Prevention is key, especially in our humid environment. Here’s how to adjust your lifestyle to minimize yeast overgrowth:

• Shower immediately after sweating. Whether it’s from a workout at Anatomy Fitness or just walking along Ocean Drive, don’t let sweat linger on your skin.
• Wear loose-fitting, breathable clothing. Opt for cotton or linen instead of synthetic fabrics, especially when exercising.
• Wash your workout clothes after every use. Don’t re-wear sweaty clothes.
• Avoid prolonged sun exposure. While a tan might look good, excessive sun exposure can weaken your immune system and make you more susceptible to fungal infections.
• Consider a zinc pyrithione soap. Incorporate a zinc pyrithione soap into your daily routine, especially during the more humid months.

Another challenge is the temptation to over-exfoliate. While exfoliation can help remove dead skin cells, overdoing it can disrupt your skin’s natural barrier and make it more vulnerable to infection. Limit exfoliation to once or twice a week, and use a gentle scrub or chemical exfoliant.

Diet can also play a role. While not a direct cause, a diet high in sugar and refined carbohydrates can contribute to yeast overgrowth in the body. Consider limiting your intake of these foods and focusing on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean protein.

Think of your skin as a delicate ecosystem. The goal is to create an environment that’s inhospitable to Malassezia yeast. By combining targeted treatments with proactive lifestyle adjustments, you can reclaim your skin and enjoy the Miami Beach lifestyle without the frustration of fungal acne.

Don’t let this fungal foe ruin your South Beach glow. Take control, be proactive, and enjoy the sunshine!