Skin irregularities can make you self-conscious and unhappy with your appearance. This is especially the case with pimplelike bumps on the skin. They can be unsightly, painful to the touch and may even leave scarring if left untreated. Thankfully, numerous treatments exist, so you can nip your pimplelike bumps in the bud before they become a problem.
Definition
Pimplelike bumps are more often than not a form of acne. They look like red or inflamed bumps on the skin with or without a white center. Acne comes in several varieties, from mild blackheads and whiteheads to the more severe nodules and cysts, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Acne with hard material inside is a nodule, while acne with a large pus pocket is a cyst.
Causes
Acne or other pimplelike bumps are caused by an accumulation of oil, dead skin cells and bacteria in the pores. This combination is called sebum and clogs the pores or hair follicles, leading to the development of a blemish. Having naturally oily skin or skin that does not slough off dead skin cells fast enough are prime contributors to acne, according to the Mayo Clinic. Likewise, touching your face, having dirty hair or using equipment, such as a helmet with a chin strap, that chafes the skin also can cause pimplelike bumps.
Location
The bumps can show up anywhere on the body. Just about every skin surface that contains hair follicles is susceptible. The most common areas to develop acne include the face, neck, shoulders, back and chest. The only areas that cannot develop pimplelike bumps are the palms of the hands and soles of the feet.
Treatment
Treating the bumps requires diligence. For a mild case of acne, you'll likely use an over-the-counter cleanser or cream. This product must be applied daily, even after the blemishes go away, to maintain clear skin, says AcneNet. Commonly used ingredients include benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid. For severe acne such as cysts, you'll need dermatological intervention. This likely would involve a prescription for a topical retinoid cream or an oral antibiotic, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Prevention
You'll need to avoid certain things to prevent pimplelike bumps, including greasy hair products, oil-based cleansers, creams or makeups and abrasive exfoliants that can irritate acne and cause new blemishes, according to AcneNet. Style your hair off your face. If you play a sport, carry a backpack or play the violin, make sure the padding on your equipment is washed or replaced often to prevent the introduction of bacteria onto the skin.
