Pimples under the skin on the face hidden causes and effective and quick treatment

Subcutaneous pimples on the face are an annoying problem that can cause pain, redness, and sometimes dark marks on the skin. Most people find them difficult to deal with because they are hidden beneath the surface and hard to remove using traditional methods, we’ll explore the hidden causes of their appearance, how to protect your skin, and the best natural, medical, and surgical treatment methods to ensure a smooth and healthy face.With clear steps and practical tips, you’ll be able to control the formation of pimples, prevent them from returning, and achieve even, radiant skin without pain or hassle.

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What Are Subcutaneous Pimples on the Face?

Subcutaneous pimples are small bumps that appear beneath the skin surface, often without a visible head like regular pimples. They can be:

• Hard or soft

• Painful or painless

• Sometimes disappear on their own or require medical treatment

Main cause: Blocked hair follicles or the accumulation of oil and bacteria under the skin.

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Are Subcutaneous Pimples Painful?

Yes, they are often sensitive or painful to touch, making them more annoying than regular pimples.

Appearance:

• Small bump under the skin

• Red or skin-colored

• Usually without a visible head

Can they disappear on their own?

• Mild cases may improve with a proper skincare routine and natural remedies

• Deep or recurrent pimples often need medical or pharmaceutical treatment

Do they leave scars?

• Picking or squeezing can lead to scars or dark spots

• Best solution: consult a dermatologist before attempting removal

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Difference Between Subcutaneous Pimples and Regular Pimples

Feature	Subcutaneous Pimples	Regular Pimples
Visible head	Usually none	White or black head visible
Pain	Often painful	Less painful
Depth	Under the skin	On the skin surface
Difficulty of removal	Very difficult	Relatively easy

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Does Diet Affect Subcutaneous Pimples?

• High-fat foods, sugar, and fast food can increase their occurrence

• Healthy diet, plenty of water, fruits, and vegetables can reduce them

Are Subcutaneous Pimples Genetic?

Yes, family history of acne or oily skin can increase the likelihood.

Can Stress Cause Subcutaneous Pimples?

Yes, stress and anxiety affect hormones, which can increase oil production and clog pores, leading to pimples.

Can Skincare Products Affect Them?

Yes, thick creams or unsuitable cleansers can clog pores and worsen subcutaneous pimples.

Does Age Matter?

• Pimples can appear at any age:

  • Teenagers (12–18 years): Hormonal changes and increased oil production

  • Young adults (18–30 years): Stress, lack of sleep, unsuitable makeup or creams, hormonal fluctuations

  • Adults (30–40 years): Hormonal imbalances or chronic stress; often on chin and jawline

  • Over 40: Rare, usually due to menopause or medications

Can Subcutaneous Pimples Turn Into Inflamed or Pus-filled Pimples?

Yes, if blocked for long periods or squeezed, they can become painful and filled with pus.

Does Sleep and Exercise Help?

Yes, moderate exercise and adequate sleep help balance hormones and improve circulation, reducing pimples.

Can Natural Remedies Make Them Disappear Quickly?

Natural remedies help prevent and reduce inflammation, but deep or genetic pimples usually require medical treatment.

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How Do Subcutaneous Pimples Form?

Unlike regular pimples, they form deep in the pores, making them painful and difficult to treat quickly.

Formation stages:
1️⃣ Clogged pores

• Sebaceous glands produce sebum (natural skin oil)

• When mixed with dead skin cells or bacteria → pores clog

2️⃣ Bacterial growth

• Propionibacterium acnes multiply in clogged pores → mild to moderate inflammation

3️⃣ Inflammation and swelling

• Immune cells fight bacteria → area swells and becomes painful

• Deep inflammation occurs without a visible head

4️⃣ Subcutaneous pimple appears

• Small lump or pain under the skin

• Usually red or soft, no white head

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Types of Subcutaneous Pimples on the Face

1️⃣ Small painful pimples (inflammatory)

• Most annoying type; painful to touch

• No visible head

• Caused by inflammation from trapped oil and bacteria

• Common locations: cheeks, chin, around the mouth

2️⃣ Whiteheads

• Formed when pores are completely closed by oil and dead skin

• Small white bump under the skin

• More superficial but can become inflamed if deepened

3️⃣ Blackheads

• Sometimes form inside pores

• Oil oxidizes → black color

• Small black dot, often on nose or forehead

4️⃣ Cystic acne

• Deep, pus-filled pimples

• Painful, swollen, can leave scars or marks

• Caused by strong inflammation in sebaceous glands

5️⃣ Nodular acne

• Similar to cysts but solid, no pus

• Painful lump under the skin

• Takes a long time to disappear and may leave a slight mark

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Symptoms of Subcutaneous Pimples on the Face

1️⃣ Bump or lump under the skin

• You may feel a small to medium-sized lump beneath the skin, soft or firm depending on the type.

• Sometimes not visible to the eye but noticeable when touched.

2️⃣ Pain or tenderness when touched

• Usually painful or sensitive, especially if the pimple is inflammatory or cystic.

• Pain may increase when washing the face with hot water.

3️⃣ Mild redness or swelling

• The skin around the pimple may appear red or slightly swollen due to inflammation.

4️⃣ Smooth skin surface without a visible head

• No white or black head; the pimple is hidden under the skin.

• This makes it more difficult to treat.

5️⃣ Sensation of warmth or slight throbbing

• Some people feel mild warmth or pulsation at the site, especially with deep pimples.

6️⃣ Skin discoloration after the pimple heals

• Can leave temporary dark spots or pigmentation, particularly if it was manipulated or highly inflamed.

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Diagnosing Subcutaneous Pimples on the Face

1️⃣ Clinical skin examination

• The doctor examines the shape, location, and surrounding skin of the pimples.

• Typically: painful to touch, no visible head, small lump under the skin.

2️⃣ Assessing skin type and oiliness

• Determines whether the skin is very oily or has clogged pores.

• Helps choose the most suitable treatment.

3️⃣ Hormonal tests (for recurrent cases)

• If pimples appear frequently or before menstruation, hormone tests may be done (testosterone and female hormones) to identify hormonal imbalance.

4️⃣ Excluding other causes

• Allergies to skincare products or medications

• Minor bacterial infections

• Frequent touching of the face

5️⃣ Medical history and lifestyle

• Diet, skincare routine, stress, or lack of sleep—all contribute to subcutaneous pimples.

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Risks and Complications of Subcutaneous Pimples

1️⃣ Pain and persistent discomfort

• Deep pimples can be very painful, especially on sensitive areas like the cheeks or chin.

• Pain increases with touch or washing, making the skin highly sensitive.

2️⃣ Inflammation and spreading

• Squeezing or manipulating the pimple can spread inflammation to surrounding tissue, causing more pimples or spreading to other areas of the face.

3️⃣ Scarring or pitting after healing

• Popping or forcibly extracting pimples can leave scars or small pits, which may require treatments like laser or chemical peels to correct.

4️⃣ Dark spots or hyperpigmentation

• After healing, dark spots can appear due to inflammation or frequent touching, affecting skin tone uniformity.

5️⃣ Psychological impact and lower self-confidence

• Many feel embarrassed or stressed about the appearance of pimples, especially on visible areas like the forehead or cheeks, reducing self-confidence.

6️⃣ Increased oil production and recurrence

• If underlying causes (hormones, skin type, skincare routine) are not treated, pimples may recur and skin remains inflamed.

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Medical Treatment for Subcutaneous Pimples

If pimples don’t improve with natural remedies or cause pain, a doctor may prescribe medications to reduce inflammation, unclog pores, and prevent recurrence.

1️⃣ Topical creams and ointments

• Benzoyl Peroxide: Kills bacteria and reduces inflammation.

• Topical retinoids (Adapalene or Tretinoin): Unclogs pores and reduces oil production.

• Topical antibiotics (Clindamycin or Erythromycin): Reduce inflammation and bacteria.

Usage:

• Usually applied once daily at night on clean, dry skin.

• Must be used under medical supervision to avoid excessive dryness or peeling.

2️⃣ Oral medications

• Oral antibiotics (Doxycycline or Minocycline): Reduce inflammation and bacterial growth.

• Hormonal pills for women (e.g., contraceptives or Spironolactone): Help balance hormones and reduce oil.

• Isotretinoin (Roaccutane): The most effective treatment for very deep pimples, but requires careful monitoring due to side effects.

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3️⃣ In-Clinic Treatments

• Local Cortisone Injections: Quickly reduce inflammation.

• Deep Cleansing or Light Laser Sessions: Clear pimples and purify pores.

• Mild Chemical Peels: Renew skin and reduce pore blockage.

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Advanced and Surgical Treatments for Subcutaneous Pimples

1️⃣ Surgical Pimple Drainage (Incision and Drainage)

• Performed by a dermatologist in the clinic, not major surgery.
  Steps:

1. Local anesthesia to minimize pain.

2. Small incision using a sterile needle.

3. Drain pus or secretions beneath the skin.

4. Clean the area and apply a mild antibiotic cream.

Duration: About 5–10 minutes.
Benefit: Immediate reduction of inflammation, swelling, and pain.

2️⃣ Cauterization or Laser

• Used for recurrent pimples or those with scarring.

• Removes blocked sebaceous glands or residual inflammation.

• Result: Reduces scars and stimulates skin regeneration quickly.

3️⃣ Removal of Sebaceous Cysts or Blocked Glands

• For pimples caused by cysts or deep blocked glands, the doctor removes them completely under local anesthesia.

• Benefit: Prevents recurrence in the same area.

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Modern Cosmetic Treatments for Pimples and Their Scars

1️⃣ Fractional Laser

• Uses precise laser beams targeting small skin areas with rapid healing.
  Advantages:

• Removes pigmentation and evens skin tone.

• Reduces dark spots and freckles.

• Improves skin radiance and texture.

• Eliminates pimple scars.

• Enhances skin elasticity and vitality.

• Fast and long-lasting results.

2️⃣ Chemical Peels

• Apply chemicals to remove the top layer of dead skin and stimulate new skin growth.
  Advantages:

• Reduces dark spots and pimple scars.

• Improves skin radiance and tone.

• Minimizes large pores and enhances absorption of other products.

3️⃣ Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections

• Plasma is extracted from the patient’s blood and injected into the skin to stimulate regeneration.
  Advantages:

• Promotes collagen production and improves skin texture.

• Eliminates pimple scars.

• Firms the skin and enhances natural radiance safely.

4️⃣ Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)

• Non-surgical technique that stimulates blood circulation and cell renewal.
  Advantages:

• Reduces inflammation.

• Strengthens skin.

• Gradually improves subcutaneous pimples.

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⚠️ Post-Surgical Tips for Drained Pimples

• Do not touch the area for the first 24 hours.

• Apply the cream or antibiotic exactly as prescribed.

• If excessive redness or swelling occurs → consult your doctor immediately.

• Keep your skin clean and wash with lukewarm water and gentle cleanser.

Tip: Maintaining hygiene and avoiding manipulation reduces the risk of recurrence or new infections.

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Natural Remedies to Prevent Subcutaneous Pimples

1️⃣ Cucumber and Rose Water Mask

Benefits: Hydrates skin and reduces inflammation.
Method:

• Mix ½ grated cucumber with 1 tsp rose water.

• Apply for 15 minutes, then rinse with lukewarm water.

• Use 3 times per week.

2️⃣ Honey and Cinnamon Mask

Benefits: Honey is antibacterial; cinnamon boosts circulation and purifies skin.
Method:

• Mix 1 tsp honey with a pinch of cinnamon.

• Apply on prone areas, leave 10 minutes, rinse with lukewarm water.

• Use 1–2 times per week (strong mixture).

3️⃣ Aloe Vera Gel

Benefits: Soothes skin and reduces inflammation.
Method: Apply natural aloe gel on the face, leave 30 minutes, rinse.

• Can be used daily before bedtime.

4️⃣ Apple Cider Vinegar Toner

Benefits: Balances skin pH and reduces oiliness.
Method:

• Mix 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar with 3 tbsp water.

• Apply with cotton after cleansing.

• Test on a small area first to avoid irritation.

5️⃣ Oatmeal and Honey Mask

Benefits: Oatmeal removes excess oil, honey retains moisture.
Method:

• Mix 1 tbsp ground oatmeal with 1 tbsp honey.

• Apply for 15 minutes, rinse gently with lukewarm water.

Important Tips:

• Apply masks on clean, dry skin.

• Do not overuse to avoid irritation.

• Always moisturize afterward.

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Prevention Tips for Subcutaneous Pimples

1️⃣ Daily Skin Cleansing:

• Wash twice daily with suitable cleanser, especially for oily skin.

2️⃣ Choose Proper Skincare Products:

• Avoid products with heavy oils or strong fragrances.

• Look for “Non-Comedogenic” labels.

3️⃣ Healthy Diet:

• Reduce fatty, fried, and sugary foods.

• Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and drink water.

4️⃣ Adequate Sleep and Stress Reduction:

• Lack of sleep and stress increase sebum production.

5️⃣ Avoid Touching Your Face:

• Hands carry bacteria that clog pores.

6️⃣ Remove Makeup Before Bed:

• Prevents pore blockage and inflammation.

7️⃣ Use Lightweight Sunscreen:

• Protects skin from inflammation and darkening.

8️⃣ Regular Gentle Exfoliation:

• 1–2 times per week to remove dead skin and unclog pores.

• Avoid harsh scrubs.

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Recommended Cleansers for Skin Prone to Subcutaneous Pimples

• PanOxyl – 10% Benzoyl Peroxide: Anti-bacterial, reduces inflammation, deep pore cleansing. Use with medical guidance.

• Neutrogena Spot Controlling: Controls oil, suitable for oily and acne-prone skin. Daily use.

• Vichy Normaderm Phytosolution: Contains salicylic acid, gentle for sensitive, acne-prone skin.

• La Roche-Posay Effaclar: Soothes skin, reduces inflammation, cleanses deeply without drying.

• CeraVe SA Smoothing Cleanser: Salicylic acid for exfoliation and ceramides for moisture; suitable for dry to combination skin.

Tips for Proper Use:

• Wash twice daily (morning and evening).

• Avoid vigorous scrubbing.

• Apply moisturizer suitable for acne-prone skin.

• Consult a dermatologist before introducing new products, especially for sensitive skin.

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When to See a Dermatologist

Most subcutaneous pimples respond to home remedies or topical creams, but see a dermatologist if:

1️⃣ Severely painful or swollen pimples

• May indicate infection needing medical evaluation.

2️⃣ Recurrent or persistent pimples

• Could indicate hormonal imbalance or bacterial infection requiring treatment.

3️⃣ Skin discoloration or scarring

• Severe redness, dark spots, or scars need specialized treatment.

4️⃣ Pimples in sensitive or widespread areas

• May require a customized treatment plan under medical supervision.

5️⃣ Sudden skin irritation or allergy

• Severe reactions to skincare products need immediate evaluation to prevent complications.