Acne Is Sometimes Confused With Rosacea

Rosacea and acne are two entirely different conditions, although they can and do appear together. Rosacea is very often accompanied by acne pimples in over 76% of patients while approximately 35% have seborrheic dermatitis which makes for an even more sensitive skin condition. When the acne and rosacea appear together the result is often called by many names: acne rosacea, rosacea, or adult acne.

Acne can play a role in rosacea. Medications used in the treatment of acne can be too harsh resulting in damage to the skin which manifests itself in the form of acne. Acne is an inflammatory skin condition characterized by superficial skin eruptions around hair follicles. Many of the more commonly accepted products used to treat acne can actually cause further damage to the skin resulting in other skin conditions such as rosacea. Acne pimples occur in 82% of rosacea patients which may be referred to as "acne rosacea". These products are frequently used to open the pores (exfolients, various acid-based products, and retinoids) but can be very drying and irritating to the skin.

Many products when applied to the skin alter the balance of the skin making it susceptible to bacterial growth and infection. Upsetting the skin's natural balance can lead to yeast infections, perioral dermatitis, over production of sebacceous oils, and possibly worsening of the acne condition.

Controlling these conditions and the factors that cause and further irritate them is important in the management of acne and/or rosacea. Factors which can play a role in this include but are not limited to: glycolic-based ingredients frequently found in foundation, anti-wrinkle creams and moisturizers, cleansers containing salicylic acid, alcohol, or benzyol peroxide. If it has the ability to dry or exfoliate, it can alter the natural balance of the skin. Once this balance is disturbed; the skin reacts with pimples, papules, redness, itching, flaking and/or increased sensitivity.