What Is a Blemish?

Any mark on the skin, from a pimple to a scar, wart, rash or mole can be considered a blemish. Most are perfectly harmless, but some may be painful or uncomfortable. Some types can be prevented, while others are permanent.

Types

Blemishes can be associated with permanent birth marks, moles, or scars. Or a blemish can be a temporary affliction--such as warts, rashes and pimples.

Identification

Common blemishes can be easily identified by a doctor if you are unsure what type they are. Temporary blemishes like warts are soft bumps that don't have symptoms like itching; rashes can cause redness, flaking or itching and can be signs of other conditions. Pimples associated with acne appear as small red marks that may be pus-filled. Acne may also cause blemishes such as clogged pores, blackheads or whiteheads.

Prevention

Many blemishes cannot be prevented. Those associated with acne can be helped by washing skin regularly with mild soap. Some types of acne must be treated with prescription medication.

Treatment

Permanent skin blemishes most likely can only be treated or removed through surgery. Temporary blemishes should be treated in different ways, depending on the type. Warts can be treated by over-the-counter medicines or can be frozen off by your doctor. Acne can often be controlled with over-the-counter treatments like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. Other rashes and blemishes should be checked by a doctor to determine the proper treatment.

Warning

Some blemishes, like moles, may appear permanent but should be carefully watched nonetheless, as they may be a warning sign for melanoma, or skin cancer. Other blemishes may be symptoms of more serious conditions such as allergies, psoriasis, shingles or syphilis.