Rosacea or Acne? – Symptoms, Differences & Care

What is rosacea?

Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin disease of the central facial area (cheeks, nose, forehead, chin). Typical symptoms include persistent redness, visible dilated capillaries (telangiectasias), papules/pustules, and a burning or stinging sensation. The skin barrier is often weakened, and the skin reacts sensitively to external stimuli.

Common triggers for rosacea

• UV radiation, heat, sauna
• cold, wind
• Hot drinks, alcohol, spicy foods
• stress

What is acne?

Acne is caused by increased sebum production, hormonal influences, and clogged pores. Blackheads (comedones), inflamed pimples, and pustules form. Acne can affect not only the face but also the back, chest, and shoulders.

Typical causes of acne

• Hormonal fluctuations (puberty, cycle, pregnancy)
• Excessive sebum production & keratinization disorders
• Pore ​​blockage and bacterial colonization
• Inflammatory diet (e.g. high in sugar, certain dairy products)

Symptoms – how do I tell the difference?

Similarities between rosacea and acne

• Inflammation and redness can occur in both.
• Both benefit from gentle, non-irritating care and consistent sun protection.
• Stress management and a balanced diet support skin balance.

Are there mixed forms between rosacea and acne?

Yes, three scenarios are possible:

1. Acneiform rosacea : Rosacea with acne-like papules/pustules— without blackheads. Often sensitive to heat, alcohol, or stress.
2. Rosacea & Acne Simultaneously : Rosacea in the central part of the face, with additional acne on the chin, back, or chest. Both blackheads (acne) and vascular redness (rosacea) occur.
3. Steroid-induced rosacea : Rosacea-like reaction after prolonged use of cortisone creams: red, irritated skin with pimples.

What to do with mixed forms?

• Avoid aggressive acne treatments (e.g., benzoyl peroxide, high-dose retinol, isotretinoin) – these can worsen rosacea.
• Non-irritating basic care : alcohol-free, fragrance-free, without skin-weakening emulsifiers.
• Strengthen the barrier : gentle cleansing, moisture, anti-inflammatory agents (e.g. azelaic acid derivatives, moderate strength BHA, beta-glucan, niacinamide in an adjusted dosage).
• Consistently integrate sun protection .

Nutrition & Triggers

Rosacea

Avoid individual triggers: hot drinks, alcohol, spicy foods; reduce temperature extremes (heat/cold); minimize UV ​​exposure.

acne

A low-inflammatory diet with plenty of vegetables and omega-3s; moderate sugar intake and possibly certain dairy products.

The following applies in common: stress reduction, sufficient sleep and a consistent, gentle care routine support the skin.

Gentle care routines

Routine for rosacea (minimal, non-irritating)

1. Cleansing: Mild, non-foaming cleanser with skin-neutral pH, without alcohol/fragrances.
2. Soothe & Strengthen: Toner/serum with soothing, barrier-strengthening ingredients.
3. Protect: Light, non-occlusive care and daily sun protection.

Routine for acne (minimal, mild)

1. Cleansing: Gentle, deep into the pores – without strong degreasing surfactants.
2. Clarifying: BHA applied selectively or extensively at moderate frequency; additionally azelaic acid derivative.
3. Balance: Light serum/fluid, non-comedogenic; consistent sun protection.

Our product recommendations for rosacea

Magnolia Toner Sensitive

Azelain Serum

Magnolia Calming Serum

Note: All myrto products are plant-based, vegan, cruelty-free, and free from alcohol, fragrances, preservatives, and skin-weakening emulsifiers—ideal for sensitive, redness-prone skin.

Our product recommendations for acne

BHA peeling

Organic Azelaic Serum

Copaiba Blemish Serum

FAQ – Rosacea or acne?