Ecological Dynamics of Malassezia in Hair Follicle Homeostasis, Dysbiosis, and Disease

July 2026 in “ iFungi ”

Leyao Shi, Jiameng Wang, Dongmei Li, Dongmei Shi

Malassezia hair follicle lipophilic yeast commensal organism pathogen skin disorders tumor progression cancer onset microenvironment dysbiosis

TLDR Malassezia can both protect and harm hair follicles, potentially causing skin disorders and cancer.

Malassezia, a lipophilic yeast, plays a dual role in the hair follicle ecosystem, acting as both a protective commensal organism and a potential pathogen. While it helps maintain a healthy microenvironment and prevent infections, its overgrowth is linked to various skin disorders and may contribute to tumor progression and cancer onset. This review highlights the need for further research to better understand Malassezia's functions and to develop targeted therapies for related skin and hair disorders.

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