One of the most common skin concerns, pimples and blemishes are characterised by open or closed papules, in varying shapes and sizes, and found in both the deeper and surface layers of the skin.

Pimples are caused by clogged hair follicles, filled with dead skin cells, sebum, and certain germs and irritants from the environment (B. Dréno.)

“The changing faces of acne.” British Journal of Dermatology, (2015)). Pimple breakouts can either be a short-term skin concern or a long-term condition.

Understanding the different types of pimples, and their potential causes, can be invaluable to managing breakouts and preventing persistent pimples on your face and body. In this article, we’ll discuss the different types of pimples, how to identify their root cause, and how to visibly reduce and prevent breakouts in the future.

WHAT ARE THE TYPES OF PIMPLES?

Pimples, also called zits, spots, or blemishes, come in many different shapes and sizes. They usually manifest on the face, on the T-zone (forehead, nose and chin), cheeks, and jawline, or on the neck and back. The main types include:

Papules: Small, hard, red bumps that are sensitive and tender. Papules can appear as:
Blackheads: Open papules plugged with oil and dead skin cells that appear black.

Whiteheads: Closed papules plugged with oil and dead skin cells and appearing as small, white bumps.
Pustules: Similar to papules but with a pus-filled centre.

Nodules: Large, solid lumps located in the deeper layers of the skin and often uncomfortable sometimes referred to as blind pimples

Cystic breakouts: Large, pus-filled lumps that also develop deep in the skin. Can also be uncomfortable.

Friction-induced pimples: These blemishes appear as red spots, caused by friction, heat, and pressure on the skin.