Acne and Rosacea – Differences You Should Know About
Author: Samantha O’Donnell
Source: ezinearticles.com
Acne is commonly confused with rosacea, but they are not the same. Their similarities led people in the past to erroneously call the disease “acne rosacea” or “adult acne.” Like acne, the skin can have pimples and papules. But unlike acne, blackheads do not show up in rosacea.
Common acne plagues our teenage years, but rosacea most often affects adults between the ages of s 30 to 50. And it especially affects those with fair skin. Additionally, while teens will eventually outgrow acne, people suffering from rosacea will not. Eye symptoms are sometimes associated with rosacea, while acne causes no eye symptoms.
It strikes all ages and both sexes. Generally, it is more frequent in women, but it strikes men more severely. It is rarely seen in darker skin tones or black skin. Overall, it is seen in light-skinned adults between 30-50 years of age. Since this describes anyone of Scottish, Irish or northwestern European descent, it has been labeled “the curse of the Celts.”
Symptoms can vary, and it typically comes and goes. The skin may be normal for months or even years, and then another outbreak will show up. Redness and swelling of skin on the face, mostly the chin, cheeks, nose and forehead are visible, and the skin may not return to its normal color.
How it Affects the Nose
Often the first area to be effected is the nose. Symptoms are dilated blood vessels, bumpy texture, and redness. Severe cases, left untreated, may result in rhinophyma. Rhinophyma is a condition where the nose is bulbous and enlarged. Severe rhinophyma occurs mainly in men and cosmetic surgery is sometimes necessary to treat it. Some folks associate a red/bulbous nose to excessive alcohol/liquor intake, and this sterotype can be quite upsetting to rosacea sufferers.
How it Affects the Eyes
It does not always affect the eyes, but it certainly can. One symptom that appears in acute cases is ocular rosacea. One out of two sufferers will complain of eye grittiness, dryness and burning, commonly called conjunctivitis. Other common complaints are light sensitivity and eyelid redness. It is a very good idea to have routine eye evaluations, as an opthalmologist may clearly see potential problems before the patient even recognizes symptoms. It has been known to harm the cornea, a condition known as rosacea keratitis. Eye drops are typically prescribed for this.
Treatment
It may respond well to some acne treatments. For instance, some topical or oral antibiotics can be helpful. Isotretinoin (commonly referred to as Accutane) may be prescribed, but be careful, as it does have some rather serious side effects. Other treatments include sulfa-face washes and laser treatments. It is important to understand that skin affected by this condition is quite sensitive, so you may want to consult with your doctor about the best treatment for you. Natural treatments have been very effective, and may offer an alternative for those seeking a holistic approach.
If you or someone you love has rosacea or acne, go to http://www.NaturalAcneTreatmentReviews.com to learn more about several natural acne and rosacea treatments available. Studies show that natural holistic treatments have the highest success rate and provide a foundation to control rosacea and acne triggers over longer periods of time.