Acne comes in two main types: blackheads/whiteheads and pimples/cysts. Each type needs different care, but effective over-the-counter treatments are available if used correctly.

Perioral dermatitis causes red bumps or small pimples around the mouth, and sometimes near the nose or eyes. Avoid topical steroids—effective over-the-counter treatments are available when used correctly.

Folliculitis is red bumps or pimples that often appear after shaving. Common areas include the scalp, neck, chest, back, and inner thighs. It can resemble acne and usually improves with similar treatments.

Pseudofolliculitis, also called razor bumps, is red bumps that appear after shaving, waxing, or plucking. It’s more common in curly hair, especially in skin of color, when hairs curl back into the skin, causing irritation, redness, and sometimes dark marks or scars.

Mask-ne was common during the COVID era. It happens when masks trap sweat, oil, and bacteria, clogging pores and irritating the skin. Over-the-counter treatments can help if used correctly.