What should you know about red cherry spots?

Pimples are often linked to a blocked pore and may be tender, rough or topped with a white centre. Folliculitis is centred on hairs and can produce several itchy or sore bumps. After shaving, ingrown hairs may cause razor bumps. Perioral dermatitis tends to form small bumps around the mouth or nose, while rosacea can combine flushing with small facial bumps. Acne may include spots in areas with oil glands, and hormonal acne can follow a repeating hormonal pattern. These conditions can overlap in appearance, so a close look at the whole eruption is more useful than colour alone.

Wash with a gentle cleanser, keep hands off the spots, and choose products labelled non-comedogenic when possible. Avoid abrasive brushes, heavy occlusive makeup and shaving across painful bumps. Rinse after sweating and reduce rubbing from tight straps or collars. If you start an over-the-counter acne ingredient, use it sparingly and introduce no other new active at the same time. Seek professional advice if the eruption persists or the diagnosis is unclear. LED Light Therapy can be considered for some acne plans after assessment, but it is not suitable for every cause of red spots.

Get urgent help if spots are accompanied by fever, rapidly spreading redness, severe pain, marked swelling, pus, eye symptoms or facial swelling. Book a review for deep painful lesions, frequent recurrence, scarring, persistent irritation around the mouth, or a rash that follows a new medicine. Earlier assessment can prevent repeated irritation from treating the wrong condition.

Ask which feature points to acne or folliculitis, whether hair removal or products are contributing, how to protect against marks, and what improvement should look like. Ask for a clear plan if the spots affect the eyes, mouth or a frequently shaved area.