A pimple is an inflamed bump on the skin. It's caused when a skin pore gets clogged with oil and dead skin cells. Bacteria can then get trapped and grow, leading to inflammation.
The medical terms for pimples are papules and pustules.
- A papule is a small bump that feels hard.
- A pustule is small bump with a yellow or white center. It has a yellowish fluid called pus inside.
Cleaning facial skin gently once or twice a day with a mild, non-drying soap may help prevent new pimples. Over-the-counter medicine may help to dry up pimples. Squeezing or picking pimples may cause a skin infection.