 Not all pimples are caused by acne. You may be surprised to learn that there are other skin problems that cause pimples, inflamed bumps, and other acne-like symptoms. Sometimes it can be hard to distinguish between common acne and acne "look-alikes". It is always in your best interest to be evaluated by a doctor to ensure the correct diagnosis of your skin condition.
Formerly called acne rosacea, rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder affecting the cheeks, nose, chin, and forehead. Rosacea causes dilation of the blood vessels, which gives the skin a flushed appearance.Roseacea typically does not develop before the age of 35, and is more common in women than men. The exact cause of rosacea is unknown, but there are treatments available to help control the progression and severity of this condition.
How Is Adult Acne Treated?
Treating adult acne is tricky. Most acne medications are geared to teens' oily skin, a bad choice for drier adult skin. Effective treatment often requires a trial-and-error approach that takes time. The common recommendations include:
Cleansers:
Cetaphil and Aquanil are the most gentle. Avoid too-strong gels and products containing beads or granules, which are abrasive and can irritate and worsen sensitive skin.
Creams and lotions:
Use an over-the-counter retinol product to clean pores and help reduce fine wrinkles. Prevent discoloration and fade acne scars with products that contain salicylic and glycolic acids. And to spot-treat a breakout, use a product with benzoyl peroxide, which helps kill bacteria.
Prescription medications:
The topical antibiotic clindamycin helps fight bacteria in the skin; so does tetracycline, another antibiotic, taken orally. Oral contraceptives and spironolactone, a blood pressure drug, can help balance hormones.
High-tech solutions:
Laser and intense pulsed light treatments mainly target scars, but blue light therapy treatments kill acne-causing bacteria. These treatments are costly, though, so explore your other options first.
How Is Adult Acne Treated?
Treating adult acne is tricky. Most acne medications are geared to teens' oily skin, a bad choice for drier adult skin. Effective treatment often requires a trial-and-error approach that takes time. The common recommendations include:
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 Cleansers:
Cetaphil and Aquanil are the most gentle. Avoid too-strong gels and products containing beads or granules, which are abrasive and can irritate and worsen sensitive skin.
Creams and lotions:
Use an over-the-counter retinol product to clean pores and help reduce fine wrinkles. Prevent discoloration and fade acne scars with products that contain salicylic and glycolic acids. And to spot-treat a breakout, use a product with benzoyl peroxide, which helps kill bacteria.
Prescription medications:
The topical antibiotic clindamycin helps fight bacteria in the skin; so does tetracycline, another antibiotic, taken orally. Oral contraceptives and spironolactone, a blood pressure drug, can help balance hormones.
High-tech solutions:
Laser and intense pulsed light treatments mainly target scars, but blue light therapy treatments kill acne-causing bacteria. These treatments are costly, though, so explore your other options first.
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