What should you know about ageing spots?

Adult spots may be clogged pores, inflamed pimples, irritated hair follicles, or a rash that resembles acne. Their position, appearance, triggers, and accompanying symptoms help a clinician distinguish among them.

Acne may present with blackheads, whiteheads, tender red bumps, or deeper lumps. Hormonal shifts, oily or occlusive products, friction, and some medicines may influence breakouts. Folliculitis tends to centre on hair follicles and may itch or feel sore, while razor bumps often follow shaving and can contain a trapped, curved hair.

Rosacea can present with persistent facial redness, flushing, sensitivity, and acne-like bumps, especially across the central face. Perioral dermatitis often forms small bumps around the mouth, nose, or eyes, sometimes with dry or burning skin. Brown, flat marks left after inflammation are different from active raised spots and need a different approach.

Use a mild cleanser, a non-comedogenic moisturiser, and daily broad-spectrum sunscreen. Avoid squeezing, scraping, harsh scrubs, and repeatedly changing products, as irritation can worsen redness and leave darker marks. Introduce one active product at a time so you can recognise irritation.

Note where the spots occur and whether they follow shaving, heat, sweating, a new cosmetic, or a medicine change. A clear photograph taken in similar lighting can help show progression. If the pattern persists, a dermatologist can confirm whether acne treatment is appropriate or whether another diagnosis needs different care.

Arrange a medical assessment for a spot that is new and does not settle, repeatedly bleeds or crusts, forms an open sore, changes colour or shape, grows, or looks unlike your other marks. These features do not establish a diagnosis, but they should not be managed as ordinary pimples without examination.

Seek prompt care for rapidly spreading redness, marked swelling, severe pain, fever, or swelling near an eye. Book a routine dermatology visit if spots are scarring, leaving persistent discoloration, affecting your wellbeing, or failing to improve with gentle self-care.

Ask what diagnosis best fits the location and appearance, whether any medicines or skin products may be contributing, and which ingredients suit your skin. Also ask how to reduce irritation and discoloration, what improvement should look like, and which changes should bring you back sooner.