Acne - What Else May Look Like It

Folliculitis
Folliculitis is an infection of the hair follicle that is most commonly bacterial, but can occasionally be caused by a fungus. There are also forms of folliculitis which are non-infectious such as those caused by tars, oils and greases that come into contact with the skin.

Perioral Dermatitis
Perioral dermatitis is a common facial rash consisting of small inflamed papules (bumps) and sometimes tiny vesicles (water filled blisters) or pus spots, which are often clustered around your mouth, base of your nose and your chin. There may be some background redness on your chin and upper lip, especially if you have used steroid creams. You may sometimes feel an itchy or stinging sensation.

Keratosis Pilaris
Keratosis Pilaris is a very common disorder in which small, rough bumps occur in hair follicles or pores, often with some redness around the pore. It occurs in about 60% of teens and is more commonly seen in girls. About 40% of adults will get it in varying degrees. It is more common in those with atopic conditions (asthma, hay fever, eczema), ichthyosis vulgaris, hypothyrodism, Cushing’s disease and a number of rare genetic conditions.

Rosacea
Rosacea is a long lasting, non-scarring skin condition of the face that is often misdiagnosed as adult acne. It varies in severity and does not always worsen with time. Typically, you will experience inappropriate facial flushing that is not usually associated with sweating and/or persistent redness of the face. It is common to have broken blood vessels (telangiectasias) on your cheeks. You may also experience bouts of inflammation that cause red papules (small bumps) or pustules. However, comedones (blackheads and whiteheads) are not part of rosacea.