Discovering a bump or “spot under the skin” is a common experience. These hidden blemishes often present as tender lumps without a visible head, differing from typical surface pimples. This article provides guidance on identifying, treating, and preventing various types of bumps that can form beneath the skin’s surface.
Identifying Common Bumps Under the Skin
Several types of bumps can develop beneath the skin, each with distinct characteristics and origins.
One common type is a blind pimple, also known as cystic or nodular acne. These form when hair follicles become blocked with bacteria, dead skin cells, and excess sebum, leading to inflammation and a painful lump deep within the skin. Hormonal fluctuations and certain medications can contribute to their formation by increasing sebum production.
Epidermal inclusion cysts are fluid-filled pockets under the skin. They arise when a hair follicle or its duct becomes blocked or damaged, trapping skin cells and keratin beneath the surface. These cysts are benign and contain a thick, yellowish, protein-rich substance.
Ingrown hairs occur when a hair, often after shaving, waxing, or tweezing, curls back and grows into the skin instead of outward. This can result in a raised, discolored bump that may be painful or itchy. People with thick, curly, or coarse hair are more prone to developing ingrown hairs.
Boils are painful, pus-filled infections of hair follicles and surrounding skin tissue, most frequently caused by Staphylococcus aureus bacteria. They begin as red bumps that rapidly enlarge, filling with pus as the body’s immune system responds to the infection.
Lipomas are soft, fatty lumps that grow slowly between the skin and muscle layers. These benign growths are painless and movable, forming from a grouping of fat cells under the skin.
At-Home Treatment Approaches
For many under-the-skin bumps, at-home remedies can help manage symptoms and promote healing.
Applying a warm compress is a common method, as the warmth can help reduce pain and inflammation by increasing blood flow to the area. For blind pimples, warm compresses can also encourage trapped material to come closer to the skin’s surface, potentially forming a head for drainage. This involves holding a warm, wet washcloth over the affected area for 10 to 15 minutes, several times a day.
Over-the-counter (OTC) topical treatments containing specific active ingredients can benefit acne-related bumps. Benzoyl peroxide works by killing bacteria beneath the skin and drying out pimples. Salicylic acid helps by dissolving dead skin cells and preventing pores from clogging. These ingredients are found in various creams, gels, and cleansers.
Natural remedies such as tea tree oil, known for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, can be applied in diluted form to help reduce swelling and fight bacteria. Raw honey also possesses antibacterial qualities and can be applied to the affected area. Always ensure hands are clean before applying any treatment to prevent further contamination.
An important aspect of at-home care is knowing what to avoid. It is advised not to pick, squeeze, or try to pop any bump under the skin, especially blind pimples or cysts. This action can push the infection deeper, worsen inflammation, increase the risk of scarring, and potentially lead to secondary infections. Allowing the bump to heal naturally or with gentle assistance from appropriate remedies is the safest approach.
When Professional Care is Needed
While many skin bumps can be managed at home, certain signs indicate that professional medical care is necessary.
Consult a healthcare provider if a bump is persistent, very large, or causes significant pain. Rapid growth, changes in color or shape, or a suspicion of infection are also reasons to seek medical attention. Signs of infection include increasing redness, warmth, significant swelling, pus discharge, or a fever.
If home treatments do not lead to improvement after a reasonable period, or if the bump recurs frequently, a doctor or dermatologist can provide further evaluation. They can diagnose the type of bump and rule out more serious conditions. In some cases, a biopsy may be performed to analyze a tissue sample, especially if malignancy is a concern.
Professional interventions vary depending on the type and severity of the bump. For infected or large cysts and boils, a healthcare provider may perform an incision and drainage procedure to remove pus and fluid. Steroid injections can be administered directly into inflamed bumps, such as cystic acne, to reduce swelling and pain. Prescription medications, including oral antibiotics, may be prescribed to treat bacterial infections or reduce inflammation in more severe cases. For benign growths like lipomas that cause discomfort or cosmetic concerns, surgical removal is an option.
Strategies for Prevention
Preventing the formation of under-the-skin bumps involves consistent skincare practices and mindful lifestyle choices.
A regular cleansing routine is important; washing the face twice daily and after sweating helps remove impurities, dead skin cells, and excess oil that can clog pores. However, be gentle and avoid harsh scrubbing, as this can irritate the skin and worsen breakouts.
Using non-comedogenic skincare and makeup products is beneficial, as these are formulated not to clog pores. Moisturizing regularly helps maintain the skin’s barrier function, which is important even for oily or acne-prone skin, to prevent dryness and inflammation. Exfoliation, when done gently, can help remove dead skin cells that might otherwise contribute to blockages. Chemical exfoliants containing ingredients like salicylic acid or alpha-hydroxy acids can be effective.
Maintaining good hygiene, such as regularly washing items that come into contact with the face like pillowcases and makeup applicators, reduces the transfer of bacteria and dirt. For those prone to ingrown hairs, specific hair removal practices can help, such as shaving in the direction of hair growth, using a single-blade razor, or allowing hair to grow longer before removal. While diet’s direct impact on skin bumps can vary, avoiding excessive processed sugar and greasy foods, and maintaining overall hydration, supports general skin health. Managing stress can also play a role, as stress hormones can influence oil production.