Enlarged pores and irritation on the forehead

I have been diagnosed as having mild rosacea (only slight redness and few bumps) and seborrheic dermatitis  (because of peeling around the nose). I was prescribed Norritate cream to apply on the nose and elsewhere "as needed."

Something I did not raise with the dermatologist: Ever since I had a bad reaction to an exfoliating cleanser (leading to my diagnosis), the size of the pores on my forehead became enlarged and I began feeling a great deal of irritation there. The size of the pores became even larger after I subsequently made the mistake of applying a moisturizer (one that is supposed to be non-irritating). I also twice had a sharp burning pain in the forehead when cold air conditioned air blew directly on it, though this hasn't happened lately. I also developed some minor acne on the forehead.

All this suggests to me that maybe the pores on my forehead have been damaged or clogged. Will the Norritate cream help with the enlarged pores and irritation on my forehead, or is there some other treatment--whether over-the-counter or prescription--which I should consider? Is there any chance that this could resolve itself on its own, simply by washing with the right soap and otherwise leaving it alone?

Thanks for any insight you can provide.

[Vanessa Lacuesta]

Hi

Noritate cream is an antibiotic .Metronidazole is a medication of choice for rosacea. I think you should follow your physician's advice on this as I think that you are being managed well here.

Rosacea is a chronic skin condition and may require antibiotics for control of its symptoms. For more severe forms and those conditions unresponsive to medications, you may need other forms of therapy for this. Just seek follow up consult with your doctor so that your response to the medication may be assessed.