12 types of bumps that look like spots but aren’t – and when you must see a doctor

SPOTS can be an eyesore and a pain — especially when you have to go out or get your picture taken.

Acne is caused by blocked pores that become infected by bacteria and is particularly common in teens going through puberty.

However, not all blemishes are a result of the skin condition.

Many zits and bumps may be caused by other infections, or sometimes something more sinister altogether.

That’s why it’s vital you’re able to notice whether your spot is a harmless pimple or deadly disease, and know when to go to the doctor.

Consultant dermatologist Dr Natalia Spierings said: “There are over 3000 different types of skin rashes and lumps and bumps that are potential diagnosis in the field of dermatology. 

“Many of them can look very similar to the untrained eye. 

“Acne vulgaris or what people consider ‘regular’ pimples affects virtually 100 per cent of people at some point in their lives but there are a few other skin rashes which can look very similar to acne but are not acne. 

“These types of conditions are known as ‘acneiform eruptions’.

“Getting the diagnosis right is crucial – because the treatments for many of these conditions are totally different and if you use the wrong treatment you could make whatever you have going on with your skin much worse.”

Sebaceous hyperplasia

One condition often confused for spots is sebaceous hyperplasia.

It causes yellowish or flesh-coloured bumps on the skin, which normally occur on the face and are shiny.

They are slightly larger than normal spots — usually ranging from 2mm to 4mm — and do not cause any pain.

Dr Catherine Borysiewicz, a dermatology consultant at King Edward VII’s Hospital in London, said: “The exact cause is unknown.

“But it is associated with overactive sebaceous glands.

“Sebaceous hyperplasia is generally harmless and doesn’t require treatment unless for cosmetic reasons.” 

Milia

Spots develop whiteheads — little bumps that are white or flesh coloured — when the pore closes up around the infection.

But near-identical bumps called milia are also common, despite having nothing to do with oily skin.

They usually occur around the cheeks, nose, eye and eyelids, so are often confused for acne.

The bumps are caused by trapped dead skin cells forming cysts below the surface of your skin.

Dr Nowell Solish, a dermatologist at Indeed Labs, said: “These small white cysts found on the skin can arise due to the application of high-density moisturisers.

“Resembling solid and compact whiteheads, these lesions can be manually extracted.”

Skin cancer

Skin cancer is a deadly disease and it is vital you are able to spot it early.

What might look like a harmless spot could actually be the early stages of melanoma — a dangerous form of the disease.

Dr Borysiewic said: “Spotting skin cancer involves regularly examining your skin for any new or changing moles, lesions or growths. 

“If you notice anything suspicious then it’s very important you get in touch with your doctor.”

Dr Ahmed El Muntasar, a GP at , added: “If you're in doubt about having skin cancer, you need to go see your GP immediately. 

“These things happen especially on fairer skin. 

“You know, people that have had loads of sun exposure, having one burn in your life increase your chances of skin cancer significantly.”

Staph infections

Staph infections are caused by bacteria getting into the skin through small cuts.

Dr Borysiewic said: “They can range from minor boils to serious infections.

“Look for redness, swelling pain and pus-filled lesions.

“Prompt treatment is important to prevent complications.”

The bacteria is harmless when on the outside of the body but can be dangerous if you become infected.

Dr Muntasar said: “If it causes an actual infection that can lead to sepsis.

“So if in any doubt, go to your GP to get some antibiotics.”

Molluscum contagiosum

Molluscum contagiosum is a viral skin infection that causes small, raised bumps on the skin. 

Dr Muntasar said: “Molluscum is essentially a skin infection, but it's usually quite gentle so it presents with these little bubbles on the skin. 

“But usually it does not require any that it kind of goes away by itself. 

“The majority of patients as long as you stay hydrated, you should be fine. 

“If you have it, definitely go to your doctor to get assessed to get examined to make sure as I have seen all ages have it.”

Chickenpox

While more common in children, chickenpox can be caught at any age and you may be more likely to confuse it with acne if you didn’t catch it as a child.

Dr Solish said: “Chickenpox is a highly contagious viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus, characterised by itchy red blisters that eventually scab over.”

Dr Borysiewic added: “Chickenpox is generally not dangerous in healthy individuals but can be more severe in adults or pregnant women.”

Periorificial dermatitis

Dr Spierings said: “This is very commonly mistaken for acne. 

“In this condition, patients get small bumps around the nose and the chin area and sometimes around the eyes as well. 

“All the bumps are generally the same size and can sometimes be itchy.”

It can be distinguished from regular acne because the bumps do not occur around your lips, she said.

Dr Nolish added: “It is often caused by prolonged use of topical steroids or certain cosmetics.”

Folliculitis 

Spots on your scalp may seem like acne, but they could actually be caused by a separate infection.

Dr Borysiewic said: “Folliculitis is an inflammation of the hair follicles, often caused by bacteria or fungal infection. 

“It can occur anywhere on the body where hair follicles are present. Folliculitis may appear as small, red bumps or pustules that can be itchy or painful. 

“Most cases are not dangerous and can be treated with topical or oral medicine.”

Dr Spierings added: “This refers to an infection of the hair follicle, which can make the hair follicle into a red bump with pus in it. 

“This is usually caused by a bacteria called staphylococcus aureus so the correct treatment will be an antibiotic – usually an oral antibiotic but sometimes a cream can be used.”

Keratosis pilaris

Another type of spot you can get on your head could be caused by keratosis pilaris.

The condition is particularly common in children and affects around 40 per cent of adults at some point in their life, Dr Muntasar said.

He said: “Keratosis Pilaris is essentially a very, very common skin condition where you get keratin accumulation in the hair follicle. 

“A lot of people call it chicken skin because it looks like when the feathers have been plucked out.

“It just looks like little dots on the skin. 

“It's benign. It's nothing to really worry about and doesn't usually require visiting a doctor.”

Monkeypox

Monkeypox hit the headlines last year after a swathe of cases around Europe.

Infections are still spotted in Britain today but have become fewer thanks to the success of a vaccine rollout in those most at risk.

Dr Borysiewic said: “Monkeypox is a rare, viral disease primarily found in Central and West Africa.

“It spreads from animals to humans and can cause a smallpox-like illness. 

“Symptoms can include a rash and other flu-like symptoms, muscle aches and fatigue. 

“Although monkeypox is usually not life threatening, severe cases can occur, particularly in people with weakened immune systems.”

Allergic reactions

Breakouts on your skin may also be caused by allergic reactions.

Dr Nolish said: “Allergic reactions can occur due to exposure to allergens, resulting in a range of symptoms including hives, itching, redness, and swelling.”

Dr Borysiewic added: “Allergens can vary widely and may include certain foods, medications, plants, or substances. 

“The severity of allergic reactions can vary from mild to severe, depending on the individual and the specific allergen involved. 

“Symptoms can include redness, itching, swelling, and sometimes difficulty breathing.”

Rosacea

Red patches on your face could also be caused by rosacea.

Dr Spierings said: “Rosacea can look like acne vulgaris but the distinct difference is that, unlike acne, there are no comedones — clogged pores forming little bumps in the skin — in patients who have rosacea. 

“They tend to get red spots on the cheeks, nose, forehead and chin. 

“There are great treatments available so speak to your doctor if you think you might have rosacea.”