Papulopustular Rosacea: Decrease Possible Bacterial Factors

Utilizing products containing multifaceted ingredients, such as salicylic and azelaic acids, will help control both the bacteria and inflammation involved with subtype 2 papulopustular rosacea. The clinician should be familiar with the differences between subtype 2 rosacea and acne.

When attempting to differentiate between acne and papulopustular rosacea, there are a few defining characteristics: 1) in the case of papulopustular rosacea, there is redness not only of the blemishes themselves, but also in the surrounding tissue;  2) The breakouts will typically occur within the inflamed central third of the face – namely the cheeks, nose and central forehead – and 3) the skin and blemishes may be scaly and rough to the touch.  Also, since these are not acne-related papules and pustules, it is not recommended to perform extractions.

It is important to avoid more aggressive antibacterial agents, like benzoyl peroxide, on rosacea patients, which may induce further inflammation. The location of the breakouts (most commonly affecting the central third of the face in rosacea sufferers versus the hormonal acne typically seen in adults, which tends to present on the jawline and chin) and the presence of persistent redness can assist in determining the underlying cause.