Difference Between Rosacea & Acne

The similarities between acne and rosacea begin and end with the appearance of irritating red bumps on the cheeks and nose. Acne is primarily a worry to adolescents all over the world, whereas rosacea appears a bit later in life and remains throughout.

Identification

Rosacea is a common skin disorder marked by red patches, pimple-like bumps and burst capillaries which appear on the face about the cheeks and nose. The is no cure for this disorder and the cause of rosacea is unknown.

Types

There are two types of acne: non-inflammatory and inflammatory. Acne is caused by clogged pores beneath the surface of the skin, where oil and bacteria get trapped in follicle pockets, creating whiteheads or blackheads, which are deeper in the pores.

Misconceptions

Although sometimes referred to as "acne rosacea" and sometimes resembling acne, rosacea and acne are unrelated. Unlike acne, blackheads and whiteheads are not symptomatic of rosacea.

Features

Rosacea can occur at any age, but will likely affect fair-skinned people in their 30s or 40s. More severe cases of the disorder will also affect eyesight, and many have reported a decline in self-esteem. The disorder rarely affects children.

Warning

Certain activities may bring about a flare-up of rosacea. Common triggers include sun exposure, stress, wind, heat, alcohol consumption, spicy foods, hot beverages and cold weather.

Fun Fact

Over 14 million Americans are affected by rosacea and most do not know it.

References

• Acne information
• Rosacea information
• Statistics

Resources

• More rosacea information