18 Bumps On Your Skin That Are Totally Normal You Shouldn’t Pop

It’s tempting to go IN on your face when you check your makeup in the mirror and see a huge you-have-no-idea-what lump staring back at you. Dermatologists concur that a hands-off strategy is unquestionably the ideal when it comes to the majority of facial bumps and pimples under the skin. Bumps On Your Skin That Are Totally Normal.

“Popping anything causes your skin to physically break apart, making it more susceptible to infection and an even bigger problem than what was originally there in the first place,” says Dendy Engelman, MD, board-certified dermatologist at Manhattan Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery in New York City. You’re also pretty-much guaranteeing scarring and a drawn-out healing process if you don’t resist the pop, says Noelani Gonzalez, MD, director of cosmetic dermatology at Mount Sinai West.

The best move is to stock up on derm-approved, over-the-counter skincare products—or let professionals handle it in their offices with skin-safe lasers and gadgets you don’t have access to at home. The smartest treatment will depend on what exactly is causing your annoying skin issues—whether it’s a hard pimple underneath the skin or tiny white bumps on your face.

Here you’ll find all of the details you need on 15 common bumps—and a friendly reminder that you definitely should not be picking them.

It’s crucial to understand when to consult a dermatologist for advice before you delve in to identifying anything that might have appeared on your skin. Although you can develop conditions like acne and eczema well into adulthood, and new spots or bumps aren’t always an issue, Rebecca Marcus, MD, the founder of Maei MD, advises that your threshold for making an appointment should be rather low.

“You should seek the opinion of a board-certified dermatologist if you have a skin condition that is bothering you and hasn’t been easily remedied with an over-the-counter therapy,” advises Dr. Marcus. “Even though many skin issues are harmless, they can nonetheless cause someone to feel uncomfortable or self-conscious.”

She also advises scheduling a yearly skin cancer spot check screening in advance, visiting the office if you suspect an infection that will require antibiotic treatment, and coming to the doctor if a mole or bump has altered in appearance. It’s always better to be safe than sorry, and a dermatologist is the sole source for an absolutely certain diagnosis.

18 Bumps On Your Skin That Are Totally Normal You Shouldn’t Pop

1. Cystic Acne Pimples

Cystic pimples occur very deep under the skin’s surface, forming a red, tender nodule that’s not only painful but much harder to treat with OTC meds. “The inflammation that accompanies cystic acne can hinder the healing process and often lead to permanent scarring that’s impossible to eliminate,” says Dr. Engelman.

Picking at these bumps under the skin won’t help either. “The cysts occur so far beneath the skin that you won’t even come close to reaching the bump, and you’ll be left with a bloody spot,” says Joel Schlessinger, MD, a board-certified dermatologist.

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The cause: “Cystic acne is caused by hormonal fluctuations and acne bacteria,” says Dr. Schlessinger. “High hormone levels trigger an overproduction of oil, causing pores to swell. When this oil cannot reach the skin’s surface, it ruptures underneath and causes inflammation to spread to the surrounding tissue.” Other causes include bacteria in hair follicles and slowed cell turnover in acne patients that lead to keratin buildups in pores, says Dr. Gonzalez.

The treatment: Instead of going at it with your fingers, book an appointment with your dermatologist, who can properly treat the situation (usually in the form of a cortisone shot to instantly kill the swelling) and may even be able to save you from scarring altogether.

2. Milia

Ever notice how those tiny white bumps on your face (aka milia) refuse to pop no matter how hard you try? Well, rest assured. They are truly un-poppable—at least without a dermatologist or esthetician’s help.

The cause: Milia are not actually filled with dirt, oil, or grime. They are tiny, harmless cysts that occur when dead skin cells get trapped under your skin, says Dr. Schlessinger. “Picking at them often has little to no effect, and attempting to pop them will likely leave your skin red, irritated, and inflamed, with the milia still intact,” says Dr. Schlessinger. Ouch.

The treatment: “If it’s bothering you, schedule an appointment with your dermatologist, who will likely extract with a heated, sterilized tool,” says Dr. Engelman. You can also use a retinoid cream to help smooth them out faster, although milia generally clear up on their own.

3. Ingrown Hairs

Frustrating? Extremely. Worth picking—even if you just shaved your bikini line? Absolutely not.

The cause: “Ingrown hairs occur when the hair shaft becomes trapped beneath the skin’s surface,” says Dr. Schlessinger. “The red bumps that follow are often itchy and inflamed, but it’s never a good idea to use tweezers or manual force to pluck them.” Squeezing them will only make the inflammation and irritation worse, he adds. (Hello, unsightly red marks that last for months.)

The treatment: Apply hydrocortisone, which reduces redness, itchiness, and irritation—and wash the affected area with an exfoliating cleanser to help the hair reach the skin’s surface. If the painful bumps persist, Dr. Gonzalez says you can go to a dermatologist who will nick the skin and remove the hair or inject it with steroids to reduce the inflammation. Pro tip so you don’t have to deal with them at all: Exfoliate before you shave, and shave in the direction your hair grows instead of against it.

4. Skin Tags

“Skin tags are extra growths of skin that typically occur on the neck and underarms,” says Joshua Zeichner, MD, director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital. But there are a few reasons why you shouldn’t pick at the small bumps. Namely, skin tags are made from flesh, and attempting to remove them will cause pain and bleeding, says Dr. Zeichner. It could also increase your risk of infection.

The cause: “They often occur in areas of friction, like by the neck, underarms, and groin, and they are thought to be caused by skin rubbing on skin or on clothing,” says Bruce Katz, MD, a dermatologist in New York City.

The approach: Experts should handle this one, without a doubt. “A specialist can remove skin tags by snipping them off surgically,” explains Dr. Gonzalez. “They can also be removed by freezing them off (a procedure known as cryotherapy using liquid nitrogen). Additionally, according to Dr. Zeichner, if your skin tags are large enough to interfere with your everyday life, your insurance provider may even foot the expense.

5. Cold Sores

Unless you’re looking to inspire a whole army of these bad boys, don’t even think about touching them—no matter how much that cold sore looks like a pimple. “Picking at cold sores could very easily lead to the formation of another sore,” says Dr. Schlessinger. “Popping them releases a blister-like fluid that contains the same virus and can easily spread to other areas, including someone else’s face.”

The cause: The herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and type 2 (HSV-2) are to blame for cold sores, and they’re crazy-common, says Dr. Gonzalez. Seriously—50 to 80 percent of U.S. adults have oral herpes.

Small sores can heal on their own with the use of over-the-counter medications (like this one). Dr. Gonzalez advises seeing a doctor for more aggressive treatment and, if you have sores more than six times a year, prophylactic medicine, but only if you detect cold sores appearing more frequently or spreading to larger areas.

6. Dermatosa Papulosa Nigra (DPN)

These brown or black bumps look like moles and occur on the face and neck primarily happen in skin of color. Dermatologist Mona Gohara, MD, Connecticut-based dermatologist and associate clinical professor at Yale University says, “There’s no concern except those bothered by them cosmetically.”

The cause: It’s genetic. “There is no known cause at this point, but we know it runs in families,” says Dr. Gohara.

Treatment: Although there is no harm in having these marks, you can get them removed in-office if you don’t like how they look. This includes “scissor excision, shave excision, cryosurgery, electrodessication, curettage, dermabrasion, and laser removal,” according to Skin of Color Society. Just be aware that there is a chance that these procedures could result in skin pigmentation issues with deeper skin tones, so be sure to discuss a post-care plan with your dermatologist.

7. Keratosis Pilaris

“Squeezing or picking at these lesions causes worsening effects like redness and the potential for scarring as well,” says Dr. Engelman.

The cause: Often referred to as “chicken skin,” this genetic condition is caused by a buildup of keratin—the protein that protects skin, hair, and nails from infection and other harmful environmental toxins. “The buildup forms a plug that blocks the opening of a hair follicle,” Dr. Engelman adds.

Use a chemical exfoliant with salicylic acid and glycolic acid, or products like AmLactin, as a substitute for picking to reduce inflammation and gradually smooth out the bumps over time, advises Dr. Gonzalez. Dr. Engelman advises seeking the appropriate treatment from a dermatologist or esthetician if that doesn’t work. According to Dr. Gonzalez, available therapies include chemical peels, pulsed dye laser therapy, and the topical drug tretinoin (also known as Retin-A) to exfoliate the affected region.

8. Blackheads And Whiteheads

These might be some of the most commonly popped bumps—but keeps your hands off if you can.

The cause: “Blackheads consist of the same thing as whiteheads—pores that become clogged with oil—except the oil has oxidized after being exposed to the air, giving it a black or brownish hue,” says Dr. Schlessinger. “Squeezing them can force the bacteria even deeper and causes trauma to the skin.”

To work the oil and dirt out without picking at your blackheads or applying pressure, use an over-the-counter exfoliant like Differin Gel. “It will work to bring the blackhead to the skin’s surface, leaving you with a fresh face in just days,” says Dr. Engelman.

And look for makeup and skincare products that are oil-free and non-comedogenic, to ensure that what you’re using on your face won’t contribute to any future bumps.

9. Seborrheic Keratoses

Dr. Zeichner says seborrheic keratoses are rough brown bumps that typically occur on areas that get a lot of sun exposure, like the face, chest, and back. They’re totally benign, Dr. Gonzalez says, but they can get in the way since they can get caught in clothing and feel scaly.

The underlying reason is described by Dr. Zeichner as “solid growths of excess skin that pile up on the surface of your body.” Sun exposure doesn’t help, but since these bumps are inherited, even if you apply sunscreen every day (which you should do! ), they might still be in your future.

The treatment: Instead of trying to pop them, Dr. Zeichner recommends visiting your dermatologist if they become irritated or inflamed—your derm may even be able to get treatment covered through your insurance.

According to Dr. Zeichner, the only FDA-approved therapy for them is a procedure called Eskata. If the appearance bothers you, talk to your dermatologist about it. Each session of the treatments, which average two sessions to complete, costs around $375 and addresses four to five locations. Dr. Gonzalez continues, “Alternatively, you can choose cryotherapy to freeze them off or have them gently burnt out.”

10. Lipomas

A lipoma is a fatty deposit underneath the skin that might feel like a cystic pimple. They’re non-cancerous and generally harmless, although they can become painful if they grow too big.

The cause: Lipomas are often genetically linked, so you can thank your parents if you notice one start to pop up, says Dr. Gonzalez.

The treatment: Even though Dr. Pimple Popper “pops” lipomas for her clients on the reg, you should not give it a try at home. Breaking open your skin will make it red, angry, and potentially let bacteria into the area. Your best option is to have a dermatologist remove it by burning it off or taking a laser to it to reduce scarring.

11. Cherry Angiomas

These bright red benign bumps are made up of tiny blood vessels. They tend to pop up on the face, chest, belly, and back.

The cause: Their cause is unknown, but there is a genetic component that might make you more prone to getting them.

The course of action: Since they are loaded with blood, popping them is not the best course of action. However, Dr. Gonzalez assures that removal is rather simple. You can avoid bumps and scars by visiting the dermatologist’s clinic for a laser or cautery procedure.

12. Sebaceous Cysts

Another Dr. Pimple Popper fave, these skin-colored bumps are full of a yellow cheese-like material that Dr. Gonzalez says you probably won’t want to see or get a whiff of. And though they’re typically benign and asymptomatic, these can sometimes become painful if they’re inflamed, infected, or get ruptured, she adds.

The cause: These random build-ups of keratin, which looks like a pimple under the skin, pop up on areas of the body with a high volume of oil glands.

The treatment: “Treatment-wise, you have a few options,” Dr. Gonzalez says. You can have your derm inject them with steroids to help the inflammation go down and reduce the bump’s appearance, or your doctor can perform surgery to remove the keratin-filled capsule inside, which is a pretty good option since the cyst is likely to become inflamed again unless it’s totally removed.

13. Sebaceous Hyperplasia

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These small yellowish bumps that pepper the forehead or center of the face are super-common. They tend to appear with age and are often mistaken for pimples or skin diseases.

The cause: While totally harmless, the bumps are caused by an overgrowth of oil glands on the face. Unfortunately, there are no signs or symptoms to look out for, you’ll just see ’em when you see ’em (sorry!).

The treatment: If you’re bothered by their appearance and long for the days when your skin was smooth and clear, Dr. Gonzalez says dermatologists can lightly burn these doughnut-looking bumps off with electrocautery, laser them off, or freeze them off with cryotherapy.

14. Rosacea

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While you might associate rosacea with a redness or a temporary flushing of the skin, Dr. Marcus says rosacea can also be spotty and blotchy, resembling acne with its characteristic small, puss-filled or crusted bumps. This skin condition can even appear on the eyes, causing them to become red and inflamed. Keep your hands off these bumps though; you’ll do far more harm than good with any tinkering, and you’ll likely want to consult a derm to figure out the best plan of attack for managing flare ups.

The cause: “Rosacea is a common chronic inflammatory condition involving the facial skin,” says Dr. Marcus. “Although the exact cause of rosacea is poorly defined, it is thought to come from an exaggerated innate immune response combined with neurovascular dysregulation.” According to Dr. Marcus, several common triggers may cause a person’s rosacea to flare, from exposure to heat or stress and engaging in exercise to substances like caffeine and alcohol or even foods like chocolate and spicy cuisines.

The course of action: There is, regrettably, no magic cure for rosacea. However, a dermatologist can use topical and oral antibiotics, topical vasoconstrictors, or other drugs to treat symptoms and control very severe flare-ups. Other methods for treating the redness associated with rosacea include laser and intense pulsed light (IPL) therapies. Additionally, you should choose wisely regarding your skincare routine and way of life in general. Dr. Marcus emphasizes the importance of gentle skin care, avoiding triggers where feasible, and strict photon protection, preferably with a mineral-based sunscreen.

15. Eczema

Have a few bumpy or flaky dry patches on your face or body? Resist the urge to pick or scratch these areas. The spots could be eczema, and itching can actually trigger a response that leads to more eczema.

The cause: “Eczema is a broad term that encompasses several different types of inflammatory skin disorders including atopic dermatitis, dyshidrotic eczema, asteatotic eczema, and others,” says Dr. Marcus. “The most common form of eczema is atopic dermatitis: a chronic, itchy, inflammatory skin disease in which the skin barrier is compromised, which may allow infectious agents or environmental irritants to enter, causing dry, itchy, red skin.”

The treatment: No matter the type of eczema you may have, you’ll want to choose gentle, sensitive skin products for prevention; it’s all about keeping your skin barrier healthy and intact with products that contain ceramides and other nourishing ingredients. “People with eczema should moisturize their skin with fragrance-free moisturizer within two to three minutes of exiting the shower or bath,” says Dr. Marcus. “It is also helpful to avoid hot showers—opting for lukewarm instead—avoid fragranced products (fragrance is a common irritant), and avoid scratchy wool clothing, as friction can irritate compromised skin.”

Eczema isn’t really something you should be diagnosing for yourself. You’ll want to consult a dermatologist for a definitive identification as well as the best treatment plan for your skin, which Dr. Marcus says may include topical steroids or other topical or systemic anti-inflammatory medications that you can’t get over the counter. Certain products from the drugstore can help with prevention and to alleviate itchiness.

16. Warts

These little bumps that appear on the skin are pretty common. Although there isn’t a cure for a lot of viruses, there are ways for warts to be treated, says Dr. Gohara. But by picking a wart, you can spread it to more areas of your skin, or make it irritated.

The cause: Warts occur as a result of the HPV virus and are spread through skin-to-skin or skin-to-surface contact.

The treatment: “Keep hands off and seek antiviral treatments such as salicylic acid plasters, TCA or liquid nitrogen therapy, and injectable medications,” Dr. Gohara adds.

17. Boils

“A boil is a generic term for a pus-filled bump under the skin,” says Dr. Gohara.

The cause: “Pus in the skin generally connotes an infection with bacteria such as staph aureus” (a type of bacteria), Gohara explains. So it makes sense that picking at these boils would result in something disastrous—after all, hands are one of the dirtiest parts of bodies. “Picking or piping a boil can certainly stoke the fire adding more inflammation and infection into the mix,” she adds.

The treatment: Generally, boils require incision and draining to release the liquid, and if appropriate, the usage of antibiotics, Gohara recommends.

18. Keloids

“Keloid is a thickened scar that is more likely to occur in those with brown or Black skin,” says Dr. Gohara, adding that earlobes post-piercing are a common area where they develop.

The cause: There are different causes for keloids, says Gohara. “The tendency to make a keloid is dependent on how one’s skin responds to trauma.”

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