Ingredient · dataset v56
Ciclopirox and fungal acne
Antifungal · known to help
Why it's known to help
A hydroxypyridone (not an azole) that killed M. globosa and M. restricta in vitro, stronger with contact time and synergistic with zinc pyrithione.
Moderate: lab basis; contact time matters, which wash-off use limits.
Evidence strength
Strength 2/3
Function
Antifungal
Also listed as
Ciclopirox Olamine
Related antifungal
- Benzoyl Peroxide — Antifungal · known to help
- Bifonazole — Antifungal · known to help
- Climbazole — Antifungal · known to help
- Clotrimazole — Antifungal · known to help
- Econazole — Antifungal · known to help
- Ketoconazole — Antifungal · known to help
- Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Oil — Antifungal · known to help
- Miconazole — Antifungal · known to help
Sources
- Roques et al. 2006 — ciclopirox olamine vs M. globosa/restricta in vitro (Mycopathologia)
- EU CosIng database — search the INCI name
Last reviewed: 2026-10-13 (dataset v56).
Questions
Does Ciclopirox help with fungal acne?
It is known to help: A hydroxypyridone (not an azole) that killed M. globosa and M. restricta in vitro, stronger with contact time and synergistic with zinc pyrithione. It is commonly used against Malassezia — that is not a claim that any product treats or cures anything.
Does Ciclopirox feed Malassezia?
No: Ciclopirox is known to help against Malassezia, not feed it. That is not a claim that any product treats or cures anything.
Is this medical advice?
No. We screen ingredient lists; we never diagnose, treat, or certify products. When in doubt, ask a dermatologist.
Check a full list containing Ciclopirox →
Not medical advice: we screen ingredient lists for potential triggers — we never diagnose, treat, or certify products. Dataset v56.