Though Acne and Rosacea differ in minor ways, their underlying causes are much the same. Oil, dirt, and bacteria top the list of causes for outbreaks of blemishes, redness, and inflammation.
Acne Rosacea is also known as Papulopustular Rosacea and is not a type of acne and hereditary in nature. It is caused by dilation of the weak blood vessels in the face, making the complexion flush and red. Acne, on the other hand, is either hereditary or due to fungal infections that lead to pimples, clogged pores and whiteheads.
There are some basic techniques and skin products to help with both. Here are five tips that will help you keep your complexion toned, smooth, and blemish-free.
Tip 1 – Keep it Clean
Acne and rosacea both thrive on oil and dirt. Excess oil, produced by the skin’s sebaceous glands, can clog pore and increase the risk of inflammation – leading to pimples, whiteheads, and redness. Clogged pores and interaction with microscopic yeast creates bacteria and fungal infection.
Daily use of an Acne Face Wash and a microderm abrasion cream can deep-clean pores and wash away accumulated worn cells. Most use Zinc PCA that regulates oil, and products with Emu Oil or Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) kill bacteria and fungus.
Tip 2 – Watch the Heat
Control outbreaks by avoiding extreme temperature changes, heat and high humidity. The drying effects of temperate change inflame sensitive tissue. And, high heat and humidity increase oil production. Protect yourself from direct sunlight by using a light free sunscreen on your face. Avoid hot showers whenever possible. Though steam has been known to open pores, high heat can increase irritation on an already blemished complexion.
Tip 3 – Watch what you Eat
Though it’s still a source of debate, what you eat can affect your complexion. Spicy food, coffee, alcohol, and chocolate are considered the main culprits. Each can have an effect on your body’s chemical makeup, and many of us have minor to severe reactions. Unfortunately, our complexion is often the first to show symptoms – redness, rash, or blemishes.
Tip 4 – Hands Off
Referring to Tip 1, dirt, bacteria, and oil are leading causes of non-heredity acne and rosacea. Popping, squeezing, and scratching are a no-no. Granted this is a big request for children or teenagers (my son included), your hands transmit a host of fungus, dirt and grime. Keep your hands off and maintain a vigilant regimen of cleansing. An Acne Face Toner (similar to Stridex®), Face Wash, and diligent use of a gentle microdermabrasion cream will fight bacteria and clean oil and dirt. Avoiding contact with your hands just make progress that much easier and faster.
Tip 5 – Diagnosis for Severe Acne & Rosacea
Despite your best efforts, sometimes you might need to pull-out the big gun – go see the Dermatologist (preferably an Acne Specialist). It is essential to identify the conditions prior to prescribing the correct treatments. Antibiotics, topical or oral steroids, or medicated skin care may be prescribed. Keep in mind, however, that despite much of the commercial hype, there are acne products that work. Diligent and consistent application can bring blemish-free results in as little as days or weeks. Just keep at it.
