Rosacea and acne are terms often used interchangeably, but they are not the same. Some people mistake rosacea for acne. Rosacea is referred to sometimes as ‘adult acne’, because it commonly occurs in adults and can’t be outgrown like acne can. Acne therefore primarily occurs in teenagers, and most of the time goes away as they get older. Also, acne can appear is several places on the body, such as the back, chest, and face. Rosacea is usually found on the face and is characterized by more of a pink color, as opposed to acne.

Rosacea symptoms generally include small, red bumps on the chin, cheeks, or nose. The age group most affected is between the ages of 30 and 50, which is why it’s referred to as adult acne. While this skin disorder is not a life-threatening condition, it can have social, psychological, and emotional consequences depending on it’s severity.

Common Symptoms of Acne Rosacea:

• red bumps
• burning
• redness
• blushing
• facial flushing
• bulbous nose

Acne rosacea will come and go when it’s in the beginning stages. One could have clear skin for a long period of time, even years, and then all of a sudden it appears again. The reason for this unknown. Severe sun burns, bacterial infections, or blood vessel disorders are believed by some to be the causes of acne rosacea.

Other factors that are thought to be factors in the presence of acne rosacea include the environment and genetics. Alcohol is not a cause, but could lead to a flare up. Other reasons that could explain the presence of adult acne rosacea include:

• sun exposure
• stress
• intense exercise
• wind
• hot weather
• spicy foods
• medications

The severity of the adult acne rosacea will determine the type of medical treatment applied. The medication given in the beginning is generally antibiotics. The form of this medication could be topical gels or pills. It will be given for several weeks and the patient will start getting results. At this point, the medication can end but gels could be continued. Surgery is a possibility if the case is severe enough.

Always visit a dermatologist to determine what acne rosacea treatment you should take.