A number of different conditions, from carbuncles to acne, can cause pustules on your skin. Pustules appear inflamed and look like small, red circles with a white or yellow center created by pus trapped in the upper layer of your skin. The pus contains a mixture of liquid and inflammatory cells. If your pustule fails to go away on its own within 2 weeks -- or if other symptoms, such as fatigue or fever accompany the bumps -- see your doctor for a medical evaluation.
Identification
In both adults and children, carbuncles -- a skin infection involving the hair follicles -- can appear as a fast-growing red lump or mass under the skin with a white or yellow center. They can develop anywhere on your body, but most commonly occur on your back and the nape of your neck. Carbuncles range in size from pea-sized lumps to golf-ball sized masses.
The Acne.org website dubs pustules your "garden variety" zit. Acne usually appears in oily areas, such as your face, neck, shoulders and chest.
Time Frame
Over half of all newborn babies develop erythema toxicum within one to two days of their birth. Nobody knows what causes this harmless rash, which consists of tiny, yellow fluid-filled bumps surrounded by a ring of red. Although the fluid inside the bumps looks like pus, it contains only harmless blood cells. The baby with the rash is not ill, according to the Kids Health website, nor does the rash have any accompanying health problems. The rash usually clears on its own within a week.
Treatment
Acne pustules will eventually go away even without treatment. If you experience persistent break-outs, your doctor can recommend treatment options to prevent scarring and other damage to your skin.
Carbuncles are larger than pustules and need to drain before they can heal. They usually drain on their own within two weeks, but you can speed up their healing by placing a warm, moist cloth on the carbuncle one or two times each day. MedlinePlus cautions against cutting open a boil or squeezing it, since this can spread the infection.
Prevention/Solution
Wash acne-prone areas of your face twice a day with a gentle cleanser to minimize acne flare-ups. MayoClinic.com also recommends using over-the-counter products with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid to dry up extra oil. Avoid heavy foundation, and choose powder cosmetics that are less irritating to acne-prone skin.
Warning
Carbuncles are contagious, which means several members of a family can develop them at the same time. To minimize spreading, wash your hands well after touching a carbuncle. Wash bedding, washcloths, towels, clothing and other items that contact the affected area in boiling water. When you change bandages, place them in a tightly closed bag and dispose of them.
