From mysterious tiny dots to red, inflamed patches—facial bumps can be confusing and frustrating. You might notice them across your forehead, cheeks, jawline, or chin. Some are itchy. Some are stubborn. All are annoying.
This guide breaks down the 6 most common types of facial bumps, what causes them, and how to treat them—effectively and gently—at home.
🔒 First rule: Don't pick. Picking can lead to scarring, infection, or post-inflammatory pigmentation. Step away from the mirror and let smart skincare do the work.
1. Acne
Looks like: Whiteheads, papules, cysts, or inflamed breakouts
Cause: Clogged pores from oil, bacteria, and dead skin buildup
Common areas: Cheeks, chin, forehead, upper back, shoulders
What to do:
Target bacteria and clogged pores with clarifying ingredients like salicylic acid, niacinamide, and sulfur. Keep bacteria at bay with clean towels and don’t overload the skin with heavy creams or makeup.
💡 Sonya’s Tip: Use a fresh towel every time you cleanse. A damp towel breeds breakout-causing bacteria.
Shop the Solution:
- Super Clear – Salicylic-rich spot treatment that clears and calms
- Volcano Mask - A detoxifying clay mask that draws out excess oil, reduces inflammation, and shrinks active breakouts
- Blemish Buster – Fast-acting sulfur-based spot treatment
“It has helped my skin SO much; I barely have any pimples, and if one comes up, this product clears it in a day. Phenomenal product.” — Cassie K.
2. Blackheads
Looks like: Tiny dark spots on nose, chin, or forehead
Cause: Open comedones—pores filled with oil that oxidizes on the surface
Why it happens: Pore congestion from oil buildup and slow exfoliation
What to do:
Exfoliate regularly with a mix of physical and chemical exfoliants, use clarifying masks, and support cell turnover with gentle retinol.
Shop the Solution:
- Omega Polish and Activator – A dual-action exfoliating system that dissolves dead skin cells and polishes away impurities
- Volcano Mask – Clay mask to detoxify and draw out congestion
- Retinu – Gentle, time-released retinol to refine pores
- Nano Clarifying Hydrator – Lightweight moisturizer for oily, breakout-prone skin
“Wonderful for a blemish-prone face. The day after, my skin is soft and clear. Totally worth it—I will continue buying this!” — Jessica B.
3. Milia
Looks like: Small, hard, skin-colored or white bumps under the skin
Cause: Keratin trapped beneath the surface
Common areas: Forehead, under eyes, upper cheeks
What to do:
Use a daily exfoliator to break down surface buildup and retinol to accelerate cell turnover. Avoid thick creams that could further clog skin.
Shop the Solution:
- Flash Facial – 1-minute exfoliating gel that brightens and smooths
- Retinu – Retinol treatment for refining skin texture
“Absolutely love Flash Facial! Removes dead skin cells and face feels fresh and soft. Absolutely recommend!!” — Susan H.
4. Perioral Dermatitis
Looks like: Red bumps or pustules around the nose, mouth, or eyes
Cause: Triggers include overuse of steroid creams, heat, sun, or irritating skincare
Why it happens: A reactive condition that worsens when treated too aggressively
What to do:
Stick to a minimalist routine using fragrance-free, barrier-repairing products. Wear daily SPF and avoid hot water or foaming cleansers.
Shop the Solution:
- Sensi Wash – Ultra-gentle cleanser for irritated skin
- Organic Omega Oil – Calms inflammation and strengthens the skin barrier
- Blue Butterfly Balm – Soothes and locks in moisture
- Face Shield SPF 30 – Non-irritating physical sunscreen
- Super Clear – Targets inflammation without harshness
“By far the softest, most gentle cleanser I’ve ever used. My rosacea has softened and my pores have even become smaller.” — Verified Buyer
5. Rosacea
Looks like: Flushing, visible vessels, or acne-like red bumps
Cause: Inflammation triggered by sun, stress, alcohol, spicy food, or harsh skincare
Why it happens: A chronic condition affecting the skin’s vascular system
What to do:
Avoid known triggers, use barrier-repairing and redness-calming products, and shield skin from sun and wind.
Shop the Solution:
- Sensi Wash – Removes impurities without stripping skin
- Blue Butterfly Balm – Soothes redness, repairs irritation, and strengthens the moisture barrier
- Organic Omega Oil – Rich in omega-3s and antioxidants to reduce inflammation and support barrier function
- Blemish Buster – Targeted treatment for inflammatory bumps without irritation
“This is my holy grail!! I use it every day—it’s naturally absorbing and gives you that effortless glow. It even doubles as perfume. The smell is heavenly.” — Chloe Z.
6. Allergic Reaction
Looks like: Small, red, itchy bumps or hives
Cause: A reaction to allergens like synthetic fragrance, dyes, or new products
Why it happens: Your skin is in defense mode, releasing histamines
What do do:
Rinse with cool water, pat dry, and use calming, anti-inflammatory skincare with minimal ingredients.
Shop the Solution:
- Sensi Wash – Soothes skin without stripping or aggravating sensitivity
- Blue Butterfly Balm – Seals in moisture while reducing visible irritation
- Organic Omega Oil – Calms inflamed skin and replenishes lipids
“This oil does not leave your skin greasy. I have sensitive skin and it’s great! Wish I had found it years ago. I’ll never go without it.” — Umay Tuana T.
