Hives, rosacea, or several other skin conditions may cause pimple-like rashes on the face or body. The rash could also be red or otherwise discolored, itchy, or inflamed.
This article will cover the common causes of pimple-like rashes, tips on how to treat them, and when to see a healthcare provider.
J_art / Getty Images
Describing Your Pimple-Like Rash
Skin rashes can present in a large number of the way. The characteristics of the rash and accompanying symptoms can vary. The primary factor that distinguishes one rash from one other is its underlying cause. The cause will create the symptoms and characteristics of the rash.
The following characteristics of a rash ought to be evaluated:
- Color
- Size
- Edges
- Swelling
- Texture
- Pain
Allergic Reactions That Cause Pimple-Like Rash
Hives is a skin condition that may cause pimple-like rashes on the skin. Below is an outline of hives, its symptoms, and treatment.
Hives
Hives are itchy rashes that form suddenly on the skin. They can occur anywhere on the skin and will be attributable to an allergic response, stress, or temperature changes. Hives can occur at any age and are a standard childhood skin condition. The symptoms of hives include:
- Raised skin patches which may be red or purple depending on skin tone
- Itchy
- Varying sizes
- Blanch when touched
Hives’ appearance will be mistaken for pimples or pimple rashes. Hives treatment focuses on removing the cause and soothing the itch and redness with antihistamines and topical creams. More serious cases will must be seen by a healthcare provider.
Reproduced with permission from ©DermNet and ©Raimo Suhonen dermnetnz.org 2023.
Skin Conditions With Pimple-Like Rash as a Symptom
Numerous skin conditions present with pimple-like rashes. Below is a listing of those rashes, their symptoms, and coverings.
Folliculitis
Folliculitis is a skin condition during which the hair follicle becomes blocked or damaged. It can occur after shaving or when the skin rubs against clothes. The blocked or damaged follicle often gets infected and forms a pimple-like bump. Other symptoms include:
- Small pimples or pustules
- Redness
- Itching
Folliculitis can occur anywhere during which there are hair follicles but is more commonly seen on the neck, armpits, and groin. It can typically be treated at home with warm compresses but might have antibiotics if more severe.
Reproduced with permission from ©DermNet dermnetnz.org 2023
Thousands
Thousands are tiny, white skin cysts attributable to a buildup of keratin. Individually they’re called millet. These skin bumps are inclined to be seen on the face, across the eyes, and cheeks .In the world of the cysts, the skin might be barely firm. There ought to be no itching or redness in the encompassing skin. Milia are harmless and typically don’t must be treated. To have milia removed and stop scarring, see a healthcare provider for treatments.
Reproduced with permission from ©DermNet and ©Raimo Suhonen dermnetnz.org 2023.
Rosacea
Rosacea is an inflammatory skin condition that causes redness on the face, typically on the cheeks and nose. It may appear brownish or violet in darker skin types. The symptoms can come and go together with certain aspects like stress and sunlight causing it to look. The symptoms of rosacea include:
- Face redness or purple tone
- Pimple-like bumps
- Skin thickening
Rosacea tends to look in middle-aged adults and is more severe in men. There isn’t any cure for rosacea but a healthcare provider can prescribe treatments which can include topical creams, lasers, and surgery.
Reproduced with permission from ©DermNet New Zealand and ©Dr. Mashihul Hossain www.dermnetnz.org 2023.
Keratosis Pilaris
Keratosis pilaris is a skin condition that presents as tiny bumps that seem like goosebumps. These bumps are made up of dead skin cells and seem like small pimples. They are inclined to be seen on the legs and arms but can even appear on the face. Keratosis pilaris symptoms include:
- Rough, dry skin
- Tiny bumps
- Skin coloured or white
- Itching
The treatment of keratosis pilaris focuses on exfoliating and moisturizing the skin. Moisturizing creams which can be used to treat keratosis pilaris often contain lactic acid or urea. Improvement can take from 4 to 6 weeks, and it is vital to stick with the treatment plan for best results.
Reproduced with permission from ©DermNet New Zealand dermnetnz.org 2023.
Perioral Dermatitis
Perioral dermatitis is a rash that happens across the mouth. It is red and is commonly confused with pimples. It will be attributable to an allergy to a product that’s getting used on or across the mouth. It also will be caused by utilizing hydrocortisone for too long. The symptoms may include:
- Raised rash
- Itching or burning
- Scaly skin
- Small, pimple-like bumps
The first step to treat perioral dermatitis is to make use of a mild, fragrance-free face wash. A healthcare provider might prescribe an antibiotic which ought to be taken as prescribed.
Reproduced with permission from ©DermNet and ©Raimo Suhonen dermnetnz.org 2023.
Autoimmune Causes of Pimple-Like Rash
Hidradenitis suppurativa is one other condition that causes a pimple-like rash. Below is an outline of hidradenitis suppurativa, its symptoms, and coverings.
Hidradenitis suppurativa
Hidradenitis suppurativa is an autoimmune condition that causes boil-like bumps under the skin. These bumps develop into painful and may break open. The bumps are inclined to be present in the underarms and groin but can even develop in other locations where skin touches skin. The condition typically starts during or after puberty and is more common in females.
A healthcare provider is required to treat hidradenitis suppurativa. They may prescribe treatments like antibiotics, topical creams or ointments to diminish pore blockages, or oral medications.
Reproduced with permission from ©DermNet dermnetnz.org 2023.
Infectious Causes of Pimple-Like Rash
Infections may cause pimple-like rashes. Below is an outline of the infections, their symptoms, and coverings.
Staph
Reproduced with permission from ©DermNet dermnetnz.org 2023.
Staphylococcus (staph) is a form of bacteria that causes many forms of infections. It is usually found on the skin and when there may be a sore or opening within the skin, it may enter and cause an infection. The symptoms of a skin staph infection are:
- Bumps that seem like pimples or boils
- Redness or (purple coloration on darker skin tones)
- Swelling
- Pain
- Skin crusting
Staph skin infections are treated with antibiotics. It generally is a topical cream or an oral antibiotic, depending on the kind and severity of the infection.
Molluscum
Molluscum is a skin condition attributable to the poxvirus. It produces small bumps which can be either white or the colour of the encompassing skin. The bumps don’t hurt or itch. They will be found anywhere on the body and are commonly found on the trunk, arms, and legs. Molluscum spreads easily from direct person-to-person contact in such public places as swimming pools and daycare centers.
Since molluscum doesn’t cause many symptoms, some people may decide to allow the rash to heal by itself. This can take six months to 4 years. For those that decide to treat their molluscum, a healthcare provider can use a laser or cryotherapy (destroying abnormalities with freezing temperatures) to remove the bumps.
Reproduced with permission from ©DermNet dermnetnz.org 2023.
Chicken Pox
Chicken pox (varicella-zoster virus) is a really contagious infection that causes intensely itchy blister-like bumps on the skin. The bumps are inclined to start on the chest, face, and back then spread to the remainder of the body. The symptoms of chicken pox include:
- Fever
- Headache
- Tiredness
- Fluid-filled blisters
- Intense itching
The chicken pox vaccine, the varicella vaccine, has decreased the incidence of the condition, although, individuals who have had the vaccine can have breakthrough infections. Treatment is aimed toward reducing the symptoms. This includes using calamine lotion, colloidal oatmeal, or a cool bath with baking soda.
Reproduced with permission from ©DermNet and ©Te Whatu Ora Waikato dermnetnz.org 2023
How to Heal Rashes Resembling Acne
The first step to healing a rash that resembles pimples is to find out the form of rash and its underlying cause.
Each form of rash can have a special treatment method and should include any of the next:
When to Ask a Healthcare Provider
Rashes will be difficult to diagnose at home. Anytime a brand new rash appears, contact a healthcare provider. They will find a way to guage the rash, determine its cause, and develop a treatment plan specific to your needs. Other circumstances that warrant a call to a healthcare provider are:
- A rash that covers many of the body
- Fever
- A rash that blisters and develops open sores
- Pain
Summary
Pimple-like rashes can form on the face or body. They could also be accompanied by redness, swelling, and itching. There are quite a few causes of those rashes like hives, rosacea, and folliculitis. A healthcare provider ought to be seen to find out the cause and recommend a treatment plan.
