Dermatology Associates of West Texas offers advanced diagnostic care and customized skin treatments in Lubbock and Denver City, TX. Our founding physician, fellowship-trained and board-certified dermatologist Dr. Brent Paulger, brings over 27 years of experience and leads a team of highly skilled family nurse practitioners and board-certified dermatologists.
We frequently treat patients with rosacea and hormonal acne using proven strategies tailored to the individual. Often, our patients tell us that they’re confused about the difference between acne and rosacea. Continue reading to learn some key signs that distinguish between them.
Understanding the Cause of Your Redness
Both rosacea and hormonal acne cause inflammation, redness, and bumps. However, the root causes and treatment plans are very different.
Because rosacea and acne can appear so similar, many people may mistakenly assume they have a condition they don’t have, which explains why home treatments often aren’t effective. That’s why getting the right diagnosis is so important.
Key Differences Between Rosacea and Hormonal Acne
Use these points to help spot what’s happening on your skin:
- How it happens:Â Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition. It appears suddenly, with flare-ups often occurring after heat exposure, consuming spicy foods, or experiencing intense stress. Acne is not as sudden.
- Age of onset: Rosacea can affect anyone but is most common in adults aged 30-50, particularly women. Hormonal acne often begins earlier (usually in puberty.) About 85% of teens experience acne. But it’s also common during other periods of hormone fluctuation, for example, during pregnancy and perimenopause.
- Flushing: Rosacea causes bright red flushing that spreads across the cheeks and may extend other areas like the nose, chin, and forehead. Hormonal acne causes individual areas of red inflammation.
- Telangiectasia: Rosacea causes telangiectasia (visible blood vessels,) but acne does not.
- Bump location: Hormonal acne often occurs mainly along the jawline and chin. While rosacea can cause bumps, they’re usually in the cheek area.
- Type of bump: Rosacea usually causes red bumps, but not whiteheads or blackheads, while acne often causes both.
- Timing: Acne breakouts tend to worsen around menstrual cycles.
Treating the Right Condition Matters
When dealing with persistent redness, treating the wrong problem can delay results and compromise your skin’s barrier. At Dermatology Associates of West Texas, we customize treatment based on your exact skin type and symptoms.
We offer prescription medications, light therapy, and skincare recommendations designed to reduce redness, inflammation, and breakouts. We also identify triggers that may be contributing to your flare-ups.
Rosacea and Acne Treatment in Lubbock and Denver City, TX
Clearer, calmer skin starts with the right diagnosis. Call Dermatology Associates of West Texas at 806-797-1202 to schedule your consultation.
