What causes pimples?

Hormonal changes can increase oil production, which helps explain breakouts during puberty, menstrual cycles, pregnancy, or other hormone shifts. Friction, occlusive hair or skin products, sweating, and some medicines may also contribute. The pattern matters: acne often includes blackheads, whiteheads, and inflamed spots; folliculitis can produce closely grouped, itchy or tender bumps; razor bumps follow hair removal. Facial redness with acne-like bumps may point to rosacea or perioral dermatitis. These conditions can look similar but need different care.

Wash gently, avoid scrubbing, and choose products labelled non-comedogenic when possible. Do not pick or squeeze, because trauma can deepen inflammation and leave dark marks or scars. Track where the pimples appear, whether they itch or hurt, and whether they follow shaving, a new product, or a cycle. Persistent or widespread acne can be assessed with treatment matched to its pattern; [Acne](/conditions/acne/) is one possible explanation. [LED Light Therapy](/treatments/laser-and-energy/led-light-therapy/) may be discussed as an adjunct, not a substitute for diagnosis.

Book a dermatology assessment when bumps are deep, painful, scarring, spreading, or not settling with gentle care. Seek prompt review for sudden severe blistering, facial swelling, eye involvement, fever, or rapidly worsening redness. A clinician may distinguish acne from [Folliculitis](/conditions/folliculitis/), [Razor Bumps](/conditions/pseudofolliculitis-barbae/), or another rash before recommending treatment.

Does the distribution suggest acne, folliculitis, hormonal acne, rosacea, or perioral dermatitis? Could a product, medicine, shaving habit, or hormone change be contributing? What routine can reduce new lesions without irritating my skin?