Quick Question: What Are Blind Pimples and Why Do They Hurt So Bad?

Have you ever experienced a pimple that wasn’t yet visible on your skin, but you knew was there because it hurt so badly? These painful blemishes are commonly known as blind pimples because they live underneath your skin, making them tricky to address. We tapped board-certified dermatologist and Skincare.com expert, Dr. Joshua Zeichner, to give us the full lowdown on what these pimples are, why they can be so uncomfortable and skincare products could help if we get them.

Why Do Blind Pimples Hurt? 

Blind pimples are a type of cystic acne that have no connection to the skin’s surface. They are cysts that live deep beneath the surface of the skin and are filled with oil. “Deep, underground pimples tend to hurt because of inflammation under the skin,” says Dr. Zeichner.  In some cases these pimples may come to the surface and develop into a pustule (a small bump filled with pus), but often they don’t come to a head. Dr. Zeichner says generally speaking, “the larger the pimple, the more inflammation and the more tender it will be.” 

These pimples can appear on the face, but it’s not uncommon for them to show up on other parts of the body, like your chest or back. Some people are genetically predisposed to developing these kinds of breakouts. Dr. Zeicher says, “If you have a close relative with cystic acne, then you are more likely to develop it yourself.” 

What Can You Do If You Get One?

Before trying new skincare products, consult with a board-certified dermatologist to come up with a treatment plan.  At home, Dr. Zeicher  recommends applying skin-care products formulated with salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide and 1% hydrocortisone cream. “Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid that helps removes excess oil and dead skin cells to dry out the pimple. Benzoyl peroxide addresses lowers levels of acne-causing bacteria to help reduce inflammation and hydrocortisone cream is like a fire extinguisher that could help with skin inflammation to reduce the size and discomfort of the pimple itself,” he explains. These products from the L’Oreal portfolio of brands may help: CeraVe Acne Foaming Cleanser, which contains benzoyl peroxide. If you’re looking for a spot treatment, the Kiehl’s Blue Herbal Spot Treatment is made with salicylic acid and can be used up to three times a day to target your blemishes. Dr. Zeichner reminds us “The larger the pimple, the more likely it is to cause a mark, so be sure to treat the pimple early so it will be less likely to leave behind a scar.”

Designer: Hannah Packer

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