Rosacea and Acne: Understanding the Differences and Similarities

Acne is the most common skin condition in America. It can occur at any age, but is most common in teens.  It develops when excess oil production, related to hormones, causes cells in the pore to clump together. Bacteria on the skin surface then proliferate in these oily clumps of dead skin. Treatments include topical medications to make the cells less sticky or to decrease bacteria, and oral medications to affect hormones/oil production or to decrease bacteria.

Rosacea is a chronic but treatable condition of the skin that can also occur at any age but is more common over age thirty. It starts as a transient flushing of the central face that becomes more persistent over time. Some people then develop pimples or bumps. Rosacea can cause enlargement and thickening of the skin on the nose. It can affect the eyes. Treatment also includes topical and/or oral medications.

Dr. DeBlieck can differentiate these two conditions and prescribe appropriate therapy for you. Please call us at 208 939-5030.