7 skin conditions that look like acne but aren’t

Rosacea is a chronic, inflammatory disorder often confused with acne. “While there are multiple types, the two most common include redness of the cheeks (flushing) and an over-abundance of little visible vessels on the cheeks, as well as acne-like bumps generally more in the mid face,” says dermatologist Dr Dhaval G. Bhanusali. Unlike acne, rosacea is commonly triggered by histamine-related response and by spicy foods, caffeine and alcohol. Treatments usually combine dietary and lifestyle changes, prescription topicals, and switching to non-irritating skin-care formulas.

Folliculitis (a common summer skin problem) is an inflammation of the hair follicles, characterised by tiny, red pimples, which may be come filled with pus (resembling whiteheads). They can also be itchy or painful, or in more severe cases become crusty sores. They can appear anywhere on the body – particularly areas where friction is common, like the thighs, butt, neck and armpits. According to dermatologist Dr Francesca Fusco, folliculitis can be caused by bacteria and comes in several versions. Some examples include bacterial folliculitis, also known as barber’s itch because it tends to affect men’s beard area, and pseudomonas folliculitis, aka hot tub itch because the responsible bacteria is most commonly found in warm contaminated water. Mild cases of folliculitis can be treated with non-prescription benzoyl peroxide- and salicylic acid-based, wipes and creams. More severe cases may require oral antibiotics. For folliculitis that involves a yeast infection, there are anti-yeast cleansers; often a prescription-strength anti-fungal medication may be required.

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Keratosis pilaris is a chronic skin condition, marked by rough (red, white, or skin coloured) bumps – usually on the upper arms and legs – that can feel like sandpaper. According to Dr Bhanusali, these tiny bumps are caused by an abnormal amount of keratin that blocks hair follicles. While the condition is harmless, it can cause itchiness and dryness – moisturisers can help ease these symptoms. Dermatologist Dr Debra Jaliman, recommends treating keratosis pilaris with topical retinoids and creams containing salicylic acid and lactic acid, which work to remove dead skin cells and prevent clogged follicles.

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Perioral dermatitis is an inflammatory facial rash versus acne, which is bacterial – typically seen around the mouth. The most common cause is topical steroid use, but it can also be caused by fluoridation in toothpaste, explains dermatologist Dr Bobby Buka. The recommended course of treatment is to discontinue all topical steroids (both prescription and OTC), heavy face creams, and fluorinated toothpaste – instead, opting for mild, non-irritating cleansers and lightweight, non-comedogenic lotions. Oral and topical antibiotics are an effective treatment option. The condition can also be caused by an overgrowth of skin mites and newer treatments target these organisms.

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Sebaceous hyperplasia is a genetic condition characterised by flesh-coloured, doughnut-shaped bumps that develop on the forehead, cheeks, nose and chin. These lesions are actually enlarged oil glands (sometimes, you can even squeeze oil out of them). Sebaceous hyperplasia is benign. However some people choose to treat it for aesthetic reasons. One treatment option is called electrodessication, a device that delivers an electric current into the skin to help reduce the appearance of lesions.

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Ingrown hairs are hairs that have turned around and grown back into the skin, creating a raised bump. According to Dr Fusco, they can look exactly like acne and present as white bumps, red bumps, or “underground” cysts. They are most common around the bikini and underarm zones in women, and in men, you’ll often see them on the chin, cheeks and upper neck (the beard area). Resist the urge to pick, which can make them worse. Many times an ingrown hair will go away on its own, but if it doesn’t or it becomes infected you should make an appointment with your dermatologist. Depending on the severity, your doctor may recommend professional extraction or topical treatments, such as salicylic acid-based creams, cleansers and pads, or retinoids.

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Basal cell carcinoma is a slow-growing type of skin cancer that derives from the base layer of the epidermis. It’s usually caused by excessive UV exposure, including sunlight and tanning lamps. Basal cells look like shiny, translucent or pink bumps with tiny blood vessels – and can often be mistaken for a persistent acne cyst. If you do have a lesion that doesn’t heal after a month or two, see your dermatologist for evaluation. Treatments include photodynamic therapy, Mohs surgery (a specialised type of skin cancer surgery to ensure clear margins, while minimising the amount of skin removed), and tissue scraping.

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Source: RD.com