Many of my patients think they have acne, but in reality they have a different condition - such as rosacea, eczema or folliculitis - that have some of the same visual symptoms as acne, like redness, irritation and even breakouts.

1. "Real" Acne

Appearance: Blackheads, whiteheads (milia), inflammation, redness

How it Begins: Genetics, hormones and stress are the major factors contributing to acne.

Cause: Dead skin cells clog oil glands which causes bacteria to build up in those glands, irritating the skin. An infection results and a breakout develops.

2. Rosacea

Appearance: Redness and irritation on the cheeks, nose, forehead and chin.

How it Begins: Triggers may include heat, alcohol, sun exposure, emotions, spicy foods, weather and topical irritants.

Cause: Unknown.

3. Eczema

Appearance: Shows up as redness and irritation.

How it Begins: While the triggers can vary, hormones, stress, genetics and diet may all be contributing factors.

Cause: Skin irritation allows bacteria to grow, which causes a breakout.

4. Folliculitis

Appearance: Looks just like acne.

How it Begins: Shaving, tweezing and waxing.

Cause: Hair curls back underneath the skin leading to irritation. This opens the skin up to bacteria, which causes a breakout.

5. Keratosis Pilaris

Appearance: Small bumps on back of upper arm.

How it Begins: Hereditary.

Cause: Overproduction of skin cells around the hair follicle clogs the pore, causing a breakout.

6. Excoria

Appearance: Looks just like acne.

How it Begins: Picking your skin.

Cause: Bacteria from your hands irritates the skin and causes a breakout.

7. Perioral Dermatitis

Appearance: Looks like red bumps around the mouth.

How it Begins: While the triggers can vary, hormones, stress, genetics and diet may all be contributing factors.

Cause: Skin irritation creates a breeding ground for bacteria, which causes a breakout.