Both acne and rosacea are skin conditions that can cause significant physical discomfort and embarrassment for sufferers. These conditions can vary in severity from very mild cases with occasional break-outs to severe cases that require daily care. Fortunately, there are effective treatments for both rosacea and acne today that can help patients manage their symptoms and enjoy clearer, problem-free skin.

Many people think acne is a condition that only occurs to teenagers. However, this condition can strike into the adult years as well. Acne can develop or persist in approximately 25 percent of all adults, with some experiencing acne well into their 50’s. It is the most common skin condition in the United States today and is characterized by the appearance of whiteheads, blackheads and pimples.

Rosacea is another very common and treatable condition that causes noticeable redness, and sometimes acne-like pimples on the face. Rosacea is most common in adults age 35 and older. Signs and symptoms of rosacea include flushing and blushing, redness and broken blood vessels on the central face, acne bumps, skin burning and sometimes grittiness in the eyes. Unlike acne, which is generally unrelated to diet, rosacea can flare up when spicy food or alcohol is ingested. Stress, heat and sun are other possible triggers of this skin condition.

Acne Treatment

Some people try to wait for acne to clear up on its own. Unfortunately, this approach can take a very long time and leave permanent damage to the skin. An experienced dermatologist will be able to determine what skin treatment will best address the level of acne a person has and what action should be taken to prevent future breakouts. Some people may have very mild acne, which can easily be controlled with products that do not require a prescription. However, it may still take 4-8 weeks to see significant improvement in the appearance of the skin. Individuals with more severe acne will require other types of intervention.

Topical treatments work to kill bacteria, reduce excess oil or prevent pores from clogging. These formulations may contain retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, antibiotics, salicylic acid or some combination of these ingredients to provide the greatest benefit. The type of acne treatment applied to the skin will depend on the type of acne you have. A dermatologist can help you determine the best topical treatment for your specific needs.

Oral medications can also be prescribed for painful acne that is red and swollen with cysts and nodules. Antibiotics will kill the bacteria that causes acne breakouts while effectively reducing painful inflammation. Birth control pills may be prescribed for women that are suffering from acne caused by hormone fluctuations. Isotretinoin is the medication with the highest success rate and the longest lasting results for any oral acne treatment.

Certain procedures can also be performed by a dermatologist to reduce the appearance of acne and prevent future breakouts. These treatments might include laser and light therapies, chemical peels, and drainage and extraction of large acne cysts. Your dermatologist will be able to determine the best treatment for you, based on the severity and type of acne you have, your previous medical history and other factors.

Rosacea Treatment

Treatment for rosacea depends on the patient’s particular symptoms. Treatments frequently include topical medicines applied directly to the skin and emollients to repair the skin. Antibiotics may be prescribed in topical or pill form as well to control the bacteria that leads to some rosacea symptoms.

Professional cosmetic treatments, including laser and light therapies, may also be used to reduce rosacea symptoms and control future flare-ups. In places where the rosacea causes thickening of the skin, such as on the nose, lasers, electrocautery or dermabrasion may be used to reduce thickening and create a smoother look to the skin. Eye irritation that is common with rosacea can be treated with prescribed antibiotic pills and washing the eyelids.

Rosacea and acne can be both painful and embarrassing, impacting a person’s quality of life overall. Individuals seeking acne or rosacea treatment near Atlanta, Georgia can contact Aesthetic Specialty Centre Plastic Surgery & Dermatology today at (770) 393-9000 in Roswell or (706) 467-6500 in Greensboro.