What should you know about crusty spots on skin?

A spot can crust after a pimple breaks, a hair follicle becomes inflamed, or skin is scratched. [Pimples](/symptoms/pimples/) may leave a dried surface, while [Acne](/conditions/acne/) and [Hormonal Acne](/conditions/hormonal-acne/) can cause repeated inflamed lesions. [Folliculitis](/conditions/folliculitis/) often centres on hair follicles and may be tender or itchy.

Around the mouth, small irritated bumps can fit [Perioral Dermatitis](/conditions/perioral-dermatitis/); shaving-related bumps can fit [Razor Bumps](/conditions/pseudofolliculitis-barbae/). Facial redness and bumps may also occur with [Rosacea](/conditions/rosacea/). A crust alone cannot identify the cause, so note the site, duration, triggers, and whether the spot heals.

Wash gently, pat dry, and avoid picking or squeezing. Pause new cosmetics, scrubs, fragranced products, and close shaving over the area. Use a simple moisturiser if the surrounding skin is dry. Do not apply antibiotic, steroid, or acne products to an unknown crust without advice, especially near the eyes or mouth. A clinician can match treatment to the pattern; [LED Light Therapy](/treatments/laser-and-energy/led-light-therapy/) may be discussed for selected acne-related concerns but is not a way to diagnose a crust.

Arrange review if a spot keeps returning, fails to heal, bleeds easily, forms a persistent sore, or changes in size, colour, border, or texture. Seek prompt care for spreading redness, warmth, pus, increasing pain, fever, or a rapidly multiplying rash. Urgent assessment is needed for swelling around the eye, facial swelling, or breathing difficulty.

Ask whether the spots are acne, folliculitis, irritation, rosacea, or another condition; whether a swab or other test is useful; and which cleanser or treatment is safe for your skin. Tell the clinician about shaving, masks, new products, medicines, picking, and any pattern linked to your menstrual cycle.