Acne Imitators
Posted on 03. Jan, 2009 by admin in Acne Types
Is your Acne actually a different type of skin condition?
While you may think you just have a case of acne, you may actually have something else or something in conjunction with acne. Acne Vulgaris can be often accompanied with various other conditions of the skin that can at times be quite annoying. Some of these conditions, such as Dandruff, occur in conjunction with acne; there are others that resemble acne itself but need a different type of treatment altogether to rid your skin of them. If there is even a little doubt that your condition can be more than simple acne, you should consult a dermatologist for a conclusive diagnosis. After reading the following information, you should at least be able to formulate the right kind of questions to ask your doctor.
Dandruff
Seborrheic Dermatitis also known as Dandruff is often accompanied with acne, especially affecting the skin of adolescents. The reason that they occur together is not known but their causes are very similar. The process of renewing scalp-cells goes into high gear when the scalp is trying to fight off Pityrosporum Ovale {P. Ovale}, which is a common fungus that can be found on every person’s head and causes the dead skin cells on the scalp to slough off faster than normal. Its effect on the scalp is what we call dandruff, identified by scaling, flaking, and itching and sometimes small pimples on the scalp as well. There are many things that can bring on a case of dandruff; the climate that you live in, hormones, heredity, your diet, and also stress. Although in most cases, dandruff can be easily managed using shampoos that can be purchased over the counter and contain salicylic acid, zinc, or coal tar, there are cases in which stronger shampoos are needed and a prescription can easily be obtained by your doctor. Contrary to popular belief, dandruff is not caused by over-washing your hair. It is perfectly fine to shampoo your hair every day, although picking or scratching the scalp can make dandruff worse.
Acne Cosmetica
Acne Cosmetica, as its name suggests, is acne that is brought on by the use of cosmetics. It is rather common, usually mild in severity, and triggered by the use of many various topical products, therefore it can occur on anyone, even those people who are not otherwise prone to acne. It develops slowly between spans of a few weeks to a few months and is typically characterized by small, itchy, pinkish bumps on the forehead, cheeks, and chin. Acne Cosmetica can be extremely persistent, but does not usually leave a scar. When looking to buy make-up or skin products, try to look for the various products that are “non-comedogenic.” Non-comedogenic products have less of a risk of causing an irritation or clogging your skin’s pores.
Dermatitis
Dermatitis, or Eczema, is a quickly red rash that spreads and is often swollen, itchy, and sometimes blistered. Atopic dermatitis, a relative of hay fever and asthma allergies, often occurs in childhood ages. This form of dermatitis can be caused by being in contact with detergents, chemicals, or a varied number of allergens like certain fragrances, rubber, latex, or preservatives. Adults who have chronic dermatitis usually have a history of irritant reactions that often occur on the neck, eyelids and hands. These areas of skin may become darker and thicker than the surrounding skin due to constant scratching. Although it is hereditary and may come and go throughout a person‘s lifetime, an onset of dermatitis can also be brought on by factors of the environment as well.
Enlarged Pores
Before puberty, several people have skin that is smooth and pores that are relatively small. During adolescence, pores often become larger as production of sebum increases. Also, as we get older, skin damage from the sun decreases skin elasticity, which makes pores look larger as well. Once you reach adulthood genetics will determine the size of your pores. People who have large pores tend to develop small gray blackheads on their cheeks and cheeks. These blackheads are sebum that is being produced to line the sides of the pores, and is perfectly normal. The bad practice of squeezing the sebum out of the pores may actually do irreparable damage to the pore and can cause the pores to be permanently enlarged.
Epidermal Cysts
An epidermal cyst is a growth that is sac-like and occurs deep within the skin. They are unlike cystic acne, which occurs within an infected follicle. An epidermal cyst contains soft, white matter that can remain indefinitely or until it is surgically removed. The small cyst, the diameter measures under 5mm, it does not usually require treatment. These cysts can be quite a nuisance, but usually cause no problems. Bigger cysts, on the other hand, tend to have a much higher infection rate and are extremely painful and can also scar the skin. Epidermal cysts can be permanent even if it is extracted. This leaves the cyst sac intact and prone to return. Therefore, the whole cyst sac has to be extracted in order to prevent the recurrence of the cyst. While most cysts are benign, it is very wise to talk to a doctor about any suspicious bumps or lumps that you may feel on your skin.
Favre-Racouchet Syndrome
Favre-Racouchet Syndrome mainly occurs among men and women who are over 50 years old because it is caused by sun damage that is severe and progressive and it typically happens over the span of several years. Characterized by big coalescent comedones on the upper cheeks and around the eyes. Unlike the treatment for blackheads the Favre comedones will not regress with time if left untreated. These comedones must be treated with a topical retinoid or extracted surgically.
Keratosis Pilaris
Keratosis Pilaris is very common among teens and can be characterized by the tiny, red patches of bumps that appear with a hard kernel. They can occur on the shoulders, backs of the arms, on the buttocks, on the front of the thighs, and occasionally the cheeks. Although much different than acne, keratosis pilaris is painless when touched. Keratosis Pilaris is more prevalent in arid climates and is worse during winter when the humidity is normally lower.
Milia
Milia are white bumps that are tiny and are usually found around the eye area. Milia are cystic in appearance, hard when touched, and are located deep within the skin. It can last weeks or months, but can also be removed by a dermatologist.
Peri-Oral Dermatitis
Occurring primarily in women between the ages of twenty and thirty, Peri-Oral Dermatitis can be characterized by itchy, tender patches or red spots that appear near your mouth. The area around the lips can become dry and pale as the chin, cheeks, upper lip region, and sometimes the area around the nose may become flaky, dry, and red.
Pseudofolliculitis Barbae
Pseudofolliculitis Barbae is often called “Shaving Bumps.” Shaving bumps are caused when hairs that were shaved, plucked, or waxed begin the process of growing back and the tip of the hair gets stuck inside the hair follicle. This causes the follicle to become swollen and irritated. Although not everyone will develop shaving bumps, it is more abundant with people who have curly hair. There are steps that you can take to lessen your risk of developing this annoying condition. The best tip is using electric razors whenever you can, but if you use blades to shave, then try using blades with a singled edge with every shave. Use water that is warm and shaving cream that is rich, also make sure that you do not shave against the grain, you should always shave with it. When you are finished shaving, be sure to apply antibacterial gel.
Rosacea
Rosacea is often mistakenly believed to be acne, and is a condition of the skin that is commonly affecting adults that are between the ages of 30 and 60. Comedones are not involved with Rosacea, unlike with acne vulgaris, and only appear in the areas that tend to blush or get flushed with excited, embarrassment, or hot. These areas include the neck, chest, and face. The affected skin becomes red, bumpy, appear to be oily, and can also include pustules and papules. Rosacea usually starts as only a slightly recurring and temporary annoyance, but can become an extremely chronic condition that could cause scarring. It is important to remember that if you ever think that you have Rosacea, consult with a dermatologist as soon as you can.
