The Sensitive Skin Diaries: Acne, Rosacea & Eczema Explained

The Sensitive Skin Diaries: Acne, Rosacea & Eczema Explained

When it comes to sensitive skin disorders, there is three main culprits acne, rosacea and eczema (also known as dermatitis). As any sensitive skin sufferer would know, using new products or products not specifically designed for sensitive skin can result in a costly trip to the dermatologist or worse, a very severe reaction, so it's important to understand the basics about our skin, as well as what causes each skin disorder. Knowledge is power when it comes to finding some relief, so keep reading.

Acne

According to the Australasian College of Dermatologists, acne affects 85 percent of Australians at some time during their life now that's a lot of zits! Put simply, acne is caused by a blockage to the opening of the oil glands in the skin. The oil glands are called sebaceous glands, and they produce an oily sheen called sebum (stay with us), which is responsible for keeping skin healthy. Yes, oil is good! Blockages in the sebaceous glands are common in teens, but also in adults if their hormones are seeking some balance. In short: there is no known cure for acne but it is treatable both orally with antibiotics and topically with creams, lotions and gel including benzoyl peroxide and salicyclic acid.

Rosacea

Rosacea is a very common skin disorder that causes red patches, pimple-like bumps and burst capillaries on the face (think of it as a permanent flushed face). Charming, no? The condition is especially common in fair-skinned people aged in their 30s and 40s. While there is no known cause of rosacea, things like hot drinks, alcohol and spicy foods are known to aggravate it. The condition can be controlled with antibiotics, but the Australasian College of Dermatologists recommends sufferers stay away from the aggressors above, but also saunas, sitting next to open fires, harsh winds and hot baths.

Eczema

Eczema is also known as dermatitis, and is a term used to describe inflammation of the skin. Sufferers fall into two categories acute or chronic. Acute eczema consists of itchy, red, oozing patches of skin, and sometimes blisters; while chronic eczema has longer-lasting affected areas that can be thick, dry and prominently marked. This is the result of constant itching and rubbing in an effort to get some relief. There is at least six types of eczema including Varicose (on the legs) and Seborrhoeic (common on the face and scalp), and the key to treatment and management is getting a thorough diagnosis from a dermatologist.

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The Sensitive Skin Diaries: Acne, Rosacea & Eczema Explained