I’ve always had problems with acne. It never seemed to matter what I did, I still had break outs. I kept waiting for that “grown-up” stage to hit where acne wouldn’t be a problem for me. I’m still waiting.
Recently a skin condition called rosacea has gained more notice and I began to wonder if this was actually the cause of my “adult acne”.
So, how does it compare and what can I do about it?
Rosacea is an inflammatory response that generally affects the facial skin specifically. It looks a lot like acne, with redness, swelling, bumps and small pimples, but the tiny blood vessels beneath the skin also enlarge and become visible as red blotches or thin red lines. If left untreated this can problem can lead to a permanent thickening and reddening of the affected tissue (usually the nose and face) and eye problems. It does not create blackheads or whiteheads.
The cause is not actually known but it is more common in lighter skinned people who blush easily and women more than men. It also runs in families. Most people who have rosacea are between the ages of 30 and 50.
It can be treated on the surface with cream antibiotics and hydrocortisone or internally with oral antibiotics. Water and vitamin A can also help. Fats, alcohol, spicy and junk foods can trigger flair ups. Also, avoid exposure to weather extremes.
Acne is also an inflammatory condition but it presents itself as a variety of embarrassments including the black and whiteheads that are missing in rosacea. It is caused by an oil secretion problem that can be present on the face, chest and back. When our oil producing glands are assaulted by hormones, bacteria are allowed to flourish. The bacteria causes the oils to harden and block passageways to the surface of our skin. Hence, there is much redness, swelling, and yuck. It doesn’t necessarily take on a rash or red streak quality that is present in rosacea.
Unfortunately these damaging hormones aren’t just present in adolescence; pregnancy, fluctuations in the menstrual cycle and menopause can all provide an abundance of acne causing hormones. Emotional stress likes to join in the party as well.
Sadly, good hygiene is not enough to prevent our inevitable embarrassment. But bad hygiene as well as chemicals in makeup and other cosmetic products can make it worse. Benzoyl peroxide, tretinoin and topical antibiotics can be used. Vitamin A, steroid use and dermabrasion may also help. Drink lots of water and limit your fat. You can also try acidophilus and antioxidants.
Well, given the evidence it looks like I’m doomed either way, but I guess I’ll have to stick to the unglamorous diagnosis of acne. It’s such a pity since rosacea just sounds so much more like a romantic tragedy somehow.
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