Have you ever woken up with nasty acne and covered your face with all the home remedies you could find on the internet? But did you know several skin conditions can look like acne but are not acne. These skin conditions can be distressing since they are frequently misdiagnosed as acne and treated as such. Knowing the difference between these conditions is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment.
This post will go through 8 skin problems that may appear to be acne but are not. You will be able to grasp how to recognize the type of skin condition. Then you will be less worried the next time you encounter a skin problem.
1. Rosacea
Rosacea is a skin disorder that causes facial redness and tiny pimples. Because it affects the same regions as acne, such as the cheeks, nose, and forehead, it is readily confused. The distinction is that rosacea is more common than acne and does not feature blackheads or whiteheads. Spicy meals, alcohol, and stress may all be triggers for rosacea.
2. Folliculitis
Folliculitis can affect any area with hair, including the face, scalp, and chest. It is a hair follicle irritation that can result in red lumps or pustules. It may appear to be acne, but germs, fungus, or ingrown hair cause it. Folliculitis can also be caused by several other reasons, including viral, bacterial, or fungal as well as shaving or friction irritation.
3. Pilaris Keratosis
Keratosis pilaris is a skin condition that is identified by tiny, rough bumps on the skin’s surface. It may remind you of acne since it occurs on the upper arms and thighs, common locations for acne. Yet, it is caused by keratin accumulation in the hair follicles, not by excess oil and germs.
4. Perioral Dermatitis
Perioral dermatitis is a skin rash around the mouth, nose, and eyes. Since it develops tiny red bumps or pustules, it might resemble acne. Hormonal fluctuations, stress, or a history of eczema or rosacea can potentially trigger the condition. Yet, rather than blocked pores, it is caused by an overgrowth of yeast or bacteria on the skin’s surface.
5. Contact Dermatitis
Contact dermatitis is an allergic response caused by coming into contact with an irritant, such as some cosmetics or skincare items. The rash may remain limited to the point of contact or spread to other body parts. It can produce acne-like redness, itching, and tiny lumps. But, after the irritant is eliminated, the rash usually goes away.
6. Milia
Milia are tiny, white lumps frequently occurring on the face, especially around the eyes. They are sometimes called “milk spots” or “oil seeds.” They are caused by trapped dead skin cells and are unrelated to excess oil or germs, unlike acne. Milia can be difficult to remove, but if you visit a Dermatologist in Islamabad they can safely extract them with a needle.
7. Pityrosporum folliculitis:
Pityrosporum folliculitis, or Malassezia folliculitis, is a fungal infection that damages hair follicles and causes tiny, irritating lumps on the skin that look like acne. It is caused by an overgrowth of Malassezia yeast. It is often seen in people with oily skin or people who sweat excessively. The bumps are most visible on the chest, back, and upper arms, although they can appear anywhere on the body. Pityrosporum folliculitis, unlike acne, is not caused by blocked pores or germs.
8. Eczema
Eczema is a persistent skin ailment characterized by red, itchy areas of skin. Since it causes little, fluid-filled pimples, it is readily confused with acne. Eczema can develop anywhere in the body. However, it is usually seen on the face, hands, and feet, inside the elbows and knees. Eczema is not caused by blocked pores and requires a different therapeutic method than acne.
Furthermore, while acne is a frequent skin issue, it is not the only one that can emerge on your face. Several additional skin problems may resemble acne, but it is critical to distinguish between them to receive proper treatment. If unsure about a skin issue, visit a Skin Specialist in Lahore for an appropriate diagnosis and treatment plan.
