black pimple on face - #12766
I am noticing this weird black pimple on face, right on my cheek, and I’m kinda freaking out here. It started out looking like just a regular bump but then it turned darker, and it’s so not what I expected. A few days ago I had this terrible acne breakout, and I thought I was finally getting it under control. But this black pimple on face is different and I’m not sure if it’s something serious or just another zit. I mean, I’ve had acne for years, but this just feels off or something – like is it a blackhead gone rogue? The skin around it is a bit red, but not too much. Like, should I be squeezing it or will that make it worse?? I’ve tried some over-the-counter creams which usually work well on my regular acne, but I dunno, this black pimple on face hasn’t budged an inch. Should I go see a dermatologist immediately or give it some time? Really can’t afford to let this thing make me look worse for my friend’s wedding coming up! Any advice would be super helpful because this pimple drama is just too much right now. Feels like no matter what I do, this black pimple on face is winning!
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Doctors’ responses
When dealing with a black pimple on your face, especially one that doesn’t look or behave like your typical acne, it’s essential to evaluate it carefully before doing anything like squeezing it. The dark appearance could be due to a number of reasons. It might be something as simple a sebaceous cyst or a blackhead, which is essentially oxidized sebum in your pores. But, if it’s quite unusual for you or you’ve not experienced something similar, it’s best not to make assumptions. With acne-prone skin, you might also deal with post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, where the area darkens as it heals. Squeezing it, especially when it’s not coming to a head, might lead to further irritation, scarring, or potentially worsen any underlying condition like inflammation or infection. Stick to a good acne management routine with gentle cleansing agents, avoiding strong or new products for now. Over-the-counter acne creams aren’t always effective on isolated, stubborn blemishes, and experimenting with new products can irritate your skin further. If this pimple doesn’t resolve within a week or changes in characteristics—growing larger, more painful, or increasingly red—it would be wise to consult a dermatologist. They can differentiate what kind of lesion it is, using dermoscopy if necessary, and provide you with possibly faster or more targeted treatments, like extraction or prescription topicals. Remember, always better to err on the side of caution., and avoid scrutinizing or touching the area frequently, as that could lead to more blemishes or infections. If your friend’s wedding is approaching fast, getting professional advice sooner rather than later could ease your trouble a little.
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