Papular acne appears as small, firm, red bumps without a visible head, forming when a clogged pore becomes inflamed and irritated. The skin around each papule is often tender to the touch, and picking or squeezing can worsen inflammation and lead to scarring.
A comedone becomes inflamed and infected with C. acnes bacteria, creating a small, red, tender bump.
Stop comedones from forming using retinoids; reduce bacteria with benzoyl peroxide.
Benzoyl peroxide, topical antibiotics (clindamycin), and soothing ingredients like niacinamide.
Myth: You should dry out papules with toothpaste. Fact: Toothpaste severely irritates the skin and can make inflammation worse.
If the papules are widespread, deeply painful, or leaving dark spots (hyperpigmentation).