04
Apr
Acne vs. Rosacea: How to Spot the Difference
Skin irritation often appears in the form of redness. If you experience breakouts of red areas on your face, chest, back, arms, or elsewhere on your body, you may wonder why. Does acne cause your symptoms? Or do you have rosacea?
At Apex Dermatology, Dr. Karin Harp, MD, FAAD, FASDS, Dr. Aria Vazirnia FAAD, Kristin Rupert PA-C, Sherri Anderson PA-C, Mary Hanna BC-NP. Lani Keene LE, Riley McCarthy RN, and the team support you in discovering your skin’s unique care needs.
Providing a variety of skin care solutions from our state-of-the-art office in Westlake, California, we can help you determine if you suffer from adult acne outbreaks or rosacea and recommend effective treatments to soothe and suppress your symptoms. Let’s take a closer look at the acne vs. rosacea question.
Dealing with adult acne
People who are prone to adult acne have skin that’s sensitive to harmful bacteria. You may also have very oily skin or skin that sheds a lot, resulting in clogged pores where bacteria can congregate and multiply.
During an acne outbreak, raised and reddened pimples, sometimes with black or white centers, appear in zones around your face, chest, back, and upper body. Pimples can leave you feeling less than confident in your appearance and can even become physically painful when severe.
Understanding rosacea
Did you know that rosacea is actually an inflammatory disease? Women aged 25-55 are most likely to suffer from rosacea, although this condition can affect people of all ages and genders.
In the early stages, rosacea can appear similar to acne. Like acne, rosacea symptoms tend to flare up and then fade away, only to recur again and again. Your skin may be sensitive to triggers like sun exposure, resulting in red acne-like bumps that progress to larger, spreading blotches that may eventually affect much of your face.
Telling the difference between acne and rosacea
When you start breaking out, it might be initially hard to tell if you’re dealing with acne or rosacea. But, it’s important to get your diagnosis right because, although these conditions may look similar, they typically need different treatment approaches.
Ultimately, acne mostly affects the surface layers of your skin, where bacteria breed and result in pimples. In contrast, rosacea-related swelling or pimples come from beneath the outer surface layer of your skin. Rosacea also doesn’t involve bacterial infection, which influences treatment needs.
Rosacea outbreaks often come with additional symptoms like a flushed or red face, swelling around your eyes, and visible blood vessels around your cheeks and nose (called telangiectasia). To prevent rosacea, you may need to avoid triggers like sun exposure, wind exposure, and even spicy foods or hot drinks.
Topical medications can help with rosacea symptoms, and antibiotics may be needed for severe outbreaks. Laser treatment can address both acne and rosacea symptoms. Your provider at Apex Dermatology recommends the right treatments and changes to better support and improve your skin.
When your skin breaks out in mystery bumps, contact the skin care experts at Apex Dermatology to learn more about the right treatment approach for the underlying cause.
To schedule your confidential consultation appointment, call now or book online.
Karin Harp, MD, FAAD
Aria Vazirnia, MD, FAAD
Nikki Tang, MD, FAAD, FACMS
Zoë Smith, MD
Mary Hanna, NP-BC
Alexandra Woodruff
Lani Keene
Sherri Anderson
Riley McCarthy
Karin Harp, MD, FAAD
Dr. Karin Harp, MD, FAAD, is a distinguished board-certified dermatologist and the founder of Apex Dermatology in Westlake Village, California. With years of experience, she excels in skincare and aesthetics, offering treatments like body contouring and laser skin resurfacing. Dr. Harp is adept at managing complex skin conditions such as rosacea and psoriasis and performs surgical procedures, including Mohs micrographic surgery. A graduate of the University of Washington School of Medicine, she was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society. She is affiliated with esteemed organizations like the American Academy of Dermatology, ensuring her practice remains at the forefront of dermatological care. Dr. Tateoka’s philosophy centers on creating customized treatment plans tailored to individual needs, fostering positive self-confidence, and promoting overall well-being. Her commitment to innovation, personalized care, and lifelong learning makes her a trusted provider for those seeking transformative health and aesthetic solutions.
Aria Vazirnia, MD, FAAD
Dr. Aria Vazirnia, MD, FAAD, is a highly respected board-certified dermatologist with a focus on medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology. A Harvard-trained expert, he excels in minimally invasive procedures such as laser treatments, injectables, and body contouring. Dr. Aria completed his medical degree and dermatology residency at UC San Diego School of Medicine, where he also earned a master’s in clinical research. He is an active member of the California Society of Dermatology & Dermatologic Surgery and the American Society for Laser Medicine & Surgery, reflecting his dedication to advancing dermatological care and patient well-being.
Nikki Tang, MD, FAAD, FACMS
Dr. Nikki Tang, MD, FAAD, FACMS, is a respected double board-certified dermatologist and Mohs Micrographic Surgeon based in Westlake Village, CA. With extensive training from Brown University and Mount Sinai Hospital, Dr. Tang specializes in the surgical treatment of skin cancers, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. Her expertise in Mohs surgery and complex wound reconstruction is backed by her role as former Director of Cutaneous Surgery and Oncology at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine. A fellow of the American College of Mohs Surgery, Dr. Tang is committed to providing compassionate, high-quality care with excellent outcomes.
Zoë Smith, MD
Dr. Zoë Smith, MD, is a compassionate and skilled dermatologist serving the Westlake Village, CA community at Apex Dermatology. She earned her medical degree from Wayne State School of Medicine in Detroit and completed her dermatology residency at UCLA. Dr. Zoë has authored numerous articles on hair loss, skin cancer, and autoimmune conditions, showcasing her expertise. Her research includes work at the NIH and an externship at Harvard Medical School. A leader in her field, she is recognized for her warm approach to patient care and her commitment to volunteering with children who have skin conditions.
Mary Hanna, NP-BC
Mary Hanna, NP-BC, is a highly skilled Nurse Practitioner based in Westlake Village, CA, at Apex Dermatology. With a Master of Science degree from the Massachusetts General Hospital Institute of Health Professions, affiliated with Harvard, Mary is nationally Board-Certified by the ANCC. Her expertise in dermatology was honed during a prestigious clinical rotation at Boston Medical Center. Mary excels in laser resurfacing, body contouring, and injectables and is dedicated to educating her patients. Her compassionate approach ensures patients feel empowered in their healthcare, enhancing their overall well-being. Mary is a trusted provider, committed to delivering exceptional care.
Alexandra Woodruff, PA-C
Alexandra Woodruff, PA-C, is a compassionate Certified Physician Assistant at Apex Dermatology in Westlake Village, CA. Her journey into dermatology began in high school, inspired by her own experiences with hormonal acne. Since 2016, Alexandra has been dedicated to understanding the connection between metabolic health and skin conditions. She holds a master’s degree from the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences and is board-certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants. As a member of the Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants and the California Dermatology PA Society, Alexandra is committed to providing exceptional patient care.
Lani Keene
Lani Keene, a licensed aesthetician in Westlake Village, CA, has been enhancing skin health since 1998. With over 25 years of experience in both medical and holistic skincare, she offers personalized treatments that deliver outstanding results. At Apex Dermatology, Lani is renowned for her gentle touch and warm demeanor, making her a top choice for those dealing with sunspots, acne, and fine lines. Her dedication to individualized care and extensive expertise make her a trusted professional in aesthetics, helping clients achieve their best looks and feel confident.
Sherri Anderson, MSHS, PA-C
Sherri Anderson, MSHS, PA-C, is a highly experienced dermatologist with over 15 years of clinical practice. She earned her Master of Science from George Washington University and is board-certified by the National Commission on the Certification of Physician Assistants. Sherri is a respected member of the Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants and the California Dermatology PA Society. Her extensive expertise spans dermatology, plastic surgery, and emergency medicine. Known for her warm manner and aesthetic talents, Sherri is dedicated to providing personalized care, ensuring each patient feels valued and receives natural results from cosmetic procedures.
Riley McCarthy, BSN, RN
Riley McCarthy, BSN, RN, is a dedicated dermatologist with a unique blend of expertise in both medical and cosmetic dermatology. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from West Coast University and an undergraduate degree in psychology from the University of Arizona. Riley is committed to making each patient feel safe and confident in their skin, ensuring a comfortable and supportive environment. Her approach combines her extensive knowledge and compassionate care, making her a trusted professional in the field. Riley is passionate about community health and enhancing patient well-being.