Spot, papule or blackhead: what is the difference?
Het Belang van Limburg, 22 July 2022
In Het Belang van Limburg, Dr Griet Voet explains the difference between blackheads, papules and pustules, and which treatment suits which lesion.
In Het Belang van Limburg, Dr Griet Voet explains that not every bump on the skin is the same. It all starts with a blockage of the pilosebaceous unit: an open (black) or closed (white) comedone. If bacteria get involved, an inflamed red bump develops, and when it fills with pus it is called a pustule. Larger, deeper pus-filled cavities are called cysts.
The treatment depends on the type of lesion. According to Dr Voet, blackheads are best removed with a facial cleansing treatment at the dermatologist's or with a prescription cream. Inflamed lesions often need a medical topical treatment, and severe inflammation sometimes calls for medication. If in doubt, a consultation is advisable, because the wrong approach can make the skin worse.
Key advice
Do not squeeze spots yourself; it often leaves a small wound or crater.
Have blackheads removed professionally with a medical facial cleansing treatment.
Inflamed spots usually need prescription treatment.
Avoid protein shakes if you have acne; they can worsen inflammation.
“If in doubt, it is best to talk to a dermatologist, because the wrong treatment can make the situation even worse.” — Dr Griet Voet
Want to know more? Read about Acne at Clinique Dermatologie Gent.