What Causes Nose Acne and How Can I Get Rid of It?
Medically reviewed by Susan Bard, MDMedically reviewed by Susan Bard, MDNose acne is the redness, pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads that occur on and around your nose. The problem can impact your skin health and increase your risk of scarring. It can also damage your emotional health and self-esteem.Nose acne is often linked to acne vulgaris, commonly known as acne, or acne rosacea, commonly known as rosacea. While these problems can be confused with each other, they are distinct diseases.Knowing whether your nose acne is caused by acne vulgaris or acne rosacea can help you find treatments targeted to the source of your problem. Treatments include a wide range of over-the-counter (OTC) and prescribed topical products (placed on the skin), oral drugs, and in-office procedures for each problem.This article describes nose acne, its causes, and treatments. It also explains ways to prevent breakouts and when to consult a healthcare provider for treatment.
MarsBars / Getty Images
Learn More: Could Your Acne Really Be Rosacea?
Is It Acne Vulgaris or Acne Rosacea?Even though the two conditions are not related, acne vulgaris and acne rosacea can be easily confused with one another, especially if you are trying to self-diagnose nose acne. Understanding the common symptoms and appearance of each condition can help you determine the cause of your problem.While acne vulgaris typically appears during your teenage years, it can occur at any age. The condition primarily affects your face but can also develop on your back, chest, and shoulders.There are two main types of acne vulgaris: noninflammatory and inflammatory, as follows:Noninflammatory AcneCommon symptoms of noninflammatory acne are:Whiteheads: These small blemishes, also called closed comedones, have white-colored heads that appear as hair follicles become clogged with oil.Blackheads: These small blemishes, also called open comedones, appear as black spots on your skin caused by oil build-up in an open follicle, then darken due to oxidation.
Learn More: Blackheads and Whiteheads in Acne
Inflammatory AcneCommon symptoms of inflammatory acne include:Papules: These tender bumps are reddish and may appear inflamed or swollen.Pustules: These inflamed red bumps are papules that contain white or yellow pus.Nodules: These large, inflamed bumps, which indicate severe or nodular acne, can be painful.Cysts: These large, painful bumps are a sign of cystic acne, a form of inflammatory acne that produces deep cystic pimples, or acne cysts, on your skin. The bumps appear as conical-shaped growths, often with a visible whitehead.Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that typically begins any time after age 30. While it is more common in women, it tends to be more severe in men. It primarily affects your central facial area with the following symptoms:Flushing or redness on your cheeks, nose, forehead, or chinA sense of heat, warmth, or burning on affected areas when flushing occursSmall red solid bumps or pus-filled pimples on your faceSmall visible blood vessels on your cheeks, nasal bridge, and other areas of your central faceWatery, bloodshot, or irritated eyesRedness that becomes ruddier and more persistent over timeSwollen nose in untreated cases, especially in menThe following secondary symptoms of rosacea may occur with any of the more common signs of the disease:Burning, stinging, itching, skin tightnessDry and scaly skinFacial swellingPlaques (raised red patches)
Learn More: 4 Types of Pimples and How to Treat Them
What Causes Nose Acne?Understanding the causes of nose acne and who is more likely to develop acne vulgaris vs. acne rosacea can help you determine why your nose acne is occurring.Acne Vulgaris CausesAcne occurs when pores (tiny holes on the surface of your skin) become clogged. Each pore opens to a follicle containing a hair and a sebaceous (oil) gland.Pores can become blocked with a mixture of oil and skin cells, creating a plug or comedone, which appears as a blackhead or whitehead on your nose. If bacteria become trapped in the plug, your immune system can trigger an inflammatory reaction that results in a nose pimple.Acne is more likely to develop in people with overactive oil glands, producing excessive oil. While anyone can get acne, it typically occurs in teens and young adults, especially males. When acne occurs in adulthood, it is more common in women.Certain factors can make your skin oiler and trigger acne:Family history of oily skin and acneHormonal changes related to the following conditions, such as puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, birth control pills, and stressUse of greasy or oily cosmetics and hair productsCertain medications, such as corticosteroids, testosterone, estrogen, phenytoin, humidity and heavy sweatingExcessive touching, rubbing, or resting on your skinWhile eating certain foods like chocolate and pizza does not cause acne, research suggests that dairy products, refined carbohydrates, and other foods with a high glycemic index (foods that are quickly digested and absorbed, which causes a spike in blood sugar) may worsen the symptoms of existing acne cases.Acne commonly occurs on the nose because it is part of the T-zone, the T-shaped area across your forehead and down your nose.According to acne face mapping, a process that identifies the source of acne breakouts on different parts of your face, nose acne occurs here because this area tends to have larger sebaceous glands and pores than other areas of your face. The larger pores allow more space for oil and bacteria to become trapped.Rosacea CausesWhile the exact cause of rosacea is unknown, it is known that the condition runs in families, which may indicate a genetic component. Other potential causes being researched include:An immune system overreaction to a specific bacteriumAn association with Helicobacter pylori ( H. pylori), a common digestive bacterium normally associated with stomach ulcersDemodex folliculorum, a mite commonly found on the skin of your nose and cheeks, areas where rosacea first appearsCathelicidin, a normally occurring protein that protects your skin from infection but may cause redness and swelling in some peopleRosacea is more common among the following groups:Middle-aged and older adultsPeople with a family history of rosaceaPeople with fair skinWomen, though it is more severe in menRosacea can be triggered by the following factors:AlcoholCold or heatExerciseHot showers or bathsSpicy foodsStressSun exposureWind
Learn More: What Causes Acne?
How to Treat Acne VulgarisTreatment for acne vulgaris varies by individual based on your symptoms. The goals of treating any kind of acne vulgaris typically involve improving your skin's appearance by:Clearing existing acneStopping new breakoutsPreventing acne scarsTreating acne vulgaris often involves combining treatments designed to fight acne while promoting healthy skin.Noninflammatory AcneNoninflammatory acne can often be managed by one or more of the following OTC treatments:Azelex, Finacea (azelaic acid)Benzoyl peroxideDifferin (adapalene) and other retinoids (derivatives of vitamin A)Salicylic acidYour healthcare provider may prescribe one of the following prescription retinoids if OTC treatments do not provide adequate results:Aklief (trifarotene)Retin-A, Renova, others (tretinoin)Tazorac, Arazlo, others (tazarotene) (tretinoin)Twyneo (tretinoin and benzoyl peroxide)Inflammatory AcneTreatment of inflammatory acne usually involves taking oral acne medications. Often, these oral medications are used in combination with nonprescription or prescription topical drugs.Oral acne medications include the following:Antibiotics stop the growth of bacteria and reduce inflammation; they include:Doryx, Vibramycin, others (doxycycline)Minocin, Dynacin, others (minocycline)Seysara (sarecycline)Isotretinoin treats a severe form of acne vulgaris and includes the brand names Absorica, Accutane, Claravis, and Myorisan.Hormonal treatments for women stop the effects of androgens on the sebaceous gland. Combined oral contraceptives include:BeyazEstrostepOrtho Tri-CyclenYazAldactone CaroSpir (spironolactone)When inflammatory acne is attributed to hormonal causes, Winlevi (clascoterone), a topical treatment for the hormonal causes of acne in males and females, may be prescribed.The following in-office treatments may be appropriate if you have severe acne or acne scarring that does not improve with topical or oral medications:Laser therapy and pulsed light therapiesInjection of corticosteroids directly into the affected areasSuperficial chemical peels to remove dead skin cells and excess oil clogging your poresFilling acne scars with a substance to improve their appearanceSurgical procedures to treat and repair scarringHow to Treat Acne RosaceaWhile rosacea cannot be cured, it can be managed with the right treatments. Treatment plans vary by individual since symptoms can vary. A common regimen can include a combination of oral and topical treatments with the following goals:Reduce or eliminate signs of rosaceaEase discomfortPrevent rosacea from worseningMedicationsGenerally, you will get the best results from consulting your healthcare provider or a dermatologist because some OTC medications can irritate symptoms of rosacea. The following medications are used to treat rosacea:Absorica, Claravis, others (isotretinoin)Amzeeq, Zilxi (minocycline foam)Avar, Plexion, others (sulfacetamide and sulfur lotion)Epsolay (encapsulated benzoyl peroxide cream 5%)Finacea (azelaic acid foam or gel)MetroCream, MetroGel, MetroLotion, others (metronidazole cream, gel, or lotion)Mirvaso (brimonidine gel)Oracea (doxycycline oral)Rhofade (oxymetazoline cream)Soolantra (ivermectin cream)Alternative TherapiesAlternative therapies may be used to treat when oral and topical treatments do not provide sufficient results for nose acne caused by rosacea:Electrodesiccation: This treatment uses small electric needles to diminish visible blood vessels.Electrosurgery: This treatment uses electric current to heat excess tissue so it can be cut more precisely.Laser therapy or intense pulsed light therapy: These treatments use light to cauterize blood vessels.Radiofrequency: This treatment uses heat to remove excess tissue and sculpt the area.Surgical removal of excess tissueRosacea can also affect your eyelids, causing ocular rosacea. Treatment for these symptoms can include:Antibiotic eye treatmentArtificial tearsIntense pulsed light therapyOmega-3 fatty acid supplementOral doxycycline or another antibioticRestasis (cyclosporine eyedrops)Warm compresses and eyelid hygieneHow to Prevent Future Flare-Ups or BreakoutsWhile you may not be able to prevent nose acne completely, you can take steps to reduce your risk of getting future flare-ups or breakouts after clearing a case of nose acne. The strategies to promote clear skin depend on the cause of your nose acne.The following strategies can help reduce your risk of future breakouts of nose acne caused by acne vulgaris:Use an OTC benzoyl peroxide face wash daily to reduce inflammation and kill bacteria linked with acne formation.Remove all makeup and dirt to prevent it from clogging your pores.Don't scrub your skin. Instead, clean your face with your hands and pat your skin dry with a clean towel.Avoid exfoliating brushes because exfoliation triggers inflammation and more acne bumps.Eat a healthy diet with fewer sugars and carbohydrates.Keep your hair clean and off your face. Wash oily hair more often.Shower and wash your face immediately after working out to prevent the spread of acne-causing bacteria through your sweat.Use noncomedogenic (unlikely to cause comedones) sunscreens and moisturizers specifically formulated for your face.Use water-based, hypoallergenic, and noncomedogenic oil-free makeup.Use an electric razor to remove facial hair, cleaning the blade regularly and shaving in the direction of hair growth.Avoid touching your face, since it can promote the transfer of dirt and oils to your face.Don't pop or pimp pimples. Doing so increases inflammation and the risk of scarring.Change your sheets weekly. Dirt and oil on your sheets can rub off on your face while you sleep.You can help reduce your risk of future flare-ups of nose acne caused by acne rosacea by avoiding known triggers and taking the following precautions:Protect your face from sun exposure with a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses with ultraviolet (UV) protection, and a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher.Reduce stress with techniques such as exercise, meditation, or tai chi.Consider joining a rosacea support group for the psychological benefits of connecting with others who have the same condition.Avoid overheating, especially during exercise. Take warm showers and baths rather than hot ones.Avoid being close to heat sources such as fireplaces and heaters.Choose mild foods over spicy foods.Drink cold beverages or allow hot beverages to cool first before drinking them.Limit alcohol, especially red wine. Drink a cold glass of water between alcoholic drinks.Wear a scarf to protect your face from wind and cold.It's also important to simplify your skincare routine. Avoid products that contain the following ingredients:MentholCamphorSodium lauryl sulfateAlcoholRetinoids and other acne treatmentsWhen to Contact a Healthcare ProviderThe only reliable way to address rosacea is to consult your healthcare provider or a dermatologist, who can make an accurate diagnosis and prescribe a treatment plan to address your symptoms.Getting an accurate diagnosis is important because facial redness, which is one of the identifying characteristics of rosacea, is also a symptom of other diseases, including systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and carcinoid syndrome. In addition, mistaking the condition for acne and using over-the-counter acne remedies to treat it can make your symptoms worse.Contact your healthcare provider or a dermatologist if you have any of the following warning signs of rosacea:Redness that becomes ruddier and more persistent on your cheeks, nose, chin, or forehead if untreatedSmall visible blood vessels on your faceBumps or pimples that do not include blackheads and are limited to your faceWater or irritated eyes that may cause burning, stinging, or a gritty sensation. Swollen eyelids and styes may also occur.It can be more difficult to determine when to contact a healthcare provider about acne. With so many over-the-counter treatments available, it's natural to believe that you can treat the condition on your own. However, in many cases, OTC acne treatments may not be adequate to address your symptoms.A healthcare provider can provide prescription-strength topical and oral medications that may be more appropriate for your symptoms. Contact your healthcare provider or a dermatologist if you are dealing with acne that involves any of the following problems:No improvement of symptoms despite using several types of over-the-counter treatmentsNew breakouts despite your acne having clearedPimple-like bumps in unusual places, such as your armpit, thighs, groin, or on the backs of your upper armsA history of blemishes as early as 8 to 11 years of age or youngerDeep, painful acne cysts and nodulesPersistent acne symptoms for yearsFeelings of depression, anxiety, or loss of interest in social relationships since acne startedFeeling like you want to hide your face due to acne symptomsBreakouts that align with the start of a new medication in the past six monthsScars or dark spots in areas where acne has clearedAcne remains on your back or chest despite acne having cleared on your faceSummaryKnowing the cause of your nose acne is the first step in improving symptoms and avoiding recurrence. While acne vulgaris and acne rosacea can appear alike, they have distinct causes. This means they require different treatments and methods to prevent them from coming back.Treatment for both causes of nose acne includes a wide range of topical and oral options that can be targeted to your symptoms. In-office treatments can provide stronger options when other choices don't work.Contact your healthcare provider if you have nose acne that doesn't respond to over-the-counter treatments. A healthcare provider or dermatologist can find the cause of your nose acne and the best way to treat it. Getting the right treatment can improve the physical and psychological effects of nose acne so you can look and feel like yourself faster. Read the original article on Verywell Health.
Welcome to Billionaire Club Co LLC, your gateway to a brand-new social media experience! Sign up today and dive into over 10,000 fresh daily articles and videos curated just for your enjoyment. Enjoy the ad free experience, unlimited content interactions, and get that coveted blue check verification—all for just $1 a month!
Account Frozen
Your account is frozen. You can still view content but cannot interact with it.
Please go to your settings to update your account status.
Open Profile Settings