Most skin has oil glands, which makes it vulnerable to acne. This skin condition manifests itself in many different ways, from small, flesh-colored bumps to large, red cysts. It attacks the skin of eight out of every 10 teenagers as puberty-related hormones affect oil production, TeensHealth from Nemours advises, dotting the teens with red acne spots.
Cause
Skin has oil glands that produce a lubricating oil called sebum, according to KidsHealth from Nemours. Skin cells die continually as part of the natural cycle. Sometimes they cause problems when they blend with excess sebum and partially or completely block pores.
Location
Red pimples can appear on any skin that is vulnerable to acne. The only areas that do not have oil glands are the soles of the feet and palms of the hands, according to DermNet NZ, the website of the New Zealand Dermatological Society. The chin and forehead are both rich in oil glands, so the face is especially prone to pimples. The skin of the mid-back is also a common spot for acne because it has many glands, too.
Types
Not all pimples are red, the New Zealand Dermatological Society reports. Certain types, like comedones, are not inflammatory. Blackheads and whiteheads both fit into this category. Blackheads have an opening, and whiteheads are completely blocked up. Some people also develop uninflamed nodules, which are noticeable lumps that are skin-colored rather than red. Papules are little red bumps, and pustules are inflamed and appear as a red circle with a yellow- or whitehead because they contain pus, Acne.org explains. They can grow into large, inflamed nodules.
Process
Pimples become red and inflamed when the wall of the blocked follicle breaks, Acne.org advises. Initially the pimple turns into a papule. It shifts into a pustule as white blood cells work their way to the skin's surface over several days. The pimple may completely collapse or explode and become a large, red cyst that is likely to leave a scar.
Treatment
You can treat red pimples with topical medications put onto the skin as a gel, liquid or cream. MayoClinic.com explains that ingredients like salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide or resorcinol control the pimples, although they often irritate the skin when first applied. They may dry it out and cause flaking, but they will control the pimples within a few weeks. Red pimples may resist home treatment if they are badly inflamed. MayoClinic.com recommends consulting a doctor if necessary to get more powerful prescription treatments. Intervening early can keep red pimples from progressing into bad cysts that extend below the skin's surface.
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