Blackish Bumps on the Face: Possible Causes and Concerns - Dermatology

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Hard lumps on the face?


I have a hard, dark blue-black lump on my face.
Before this, there was something that looked like a pimple, which was pink in color.
I initially thought it would develop into a large red bump, but it instead turned into a blue-black color.
This symptom has persisted for one to two months, and the lump remains with little change.
I would like to know what it could possibly be.
Could it be a pimple that didn't fully develop and is trapped inside?

Yan, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/12/07

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology


Without actually seeing the lesion, it is impossible to determine the issue.
If it is very concerning, please seek medical attention as it is necessary to be evaluated in order to understand the problem.

Reply Date: 2019/12/07

More Info


The appearance of blackish bumps on the face can be concerning and may indicate various skin conditions. Based on your description, it seems that you initially had a pinkish bump resembling a pimple, which has since transformed into a hard, bluish-black lesion. This change in color and texture over a period of one to two months warrants careful consideration and possibly a professional evaluation.

One possibility is that what you are experiencing is a type of cyst, specifically an epidermoid cyst or a sebaceous cyst. These cysts can form when hair follicles become clogged with keratin, leading to a firm lump under the skin. Initially, they may appear as small, inflamed bumps, but as they develop, they can take on a darker hue, especially if they become inflamed or if there is some bleeding within the cyst. Unlike typical acne, these cysts do not usually have a visible head and do not drain pus when squeezed.

Another potential cause could be a type of acne known as nodular acne. This form of acne can present as hard, painful lumps beneath the skin's surface. They can sometimes change color as they heal or become inflamed. If the bump is indeed a nodule, it may not respond to typical acne treatments and could require more specialized care.

Additionally, the change in color could indicate a post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, which occurs after an inflammatory skin condition heals. This is common in individuals with darker skin tones, where the skin can darken in response to inflammation or injury. However, this typically does not present as a hard lump but rather as a flat discoloration.

It is also essential to consider the possibility of other dermatological conditions, such as dermatofibromas, which are benign tumors that can appear as firm, raised bumps on the skin. They can sometimes have a darker pigmentation and may remain unchanged for long periods.

Given that the bump has persisted for over a month without significant change, it is crucial to consult a dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis. A healthcare professional can perform a physical examination and may recommend a biopsy if there is any suspicion of a more serious condition. They can also provide guidance on appropriate treatment options, which may include topical treatments, injections, or surgical removal if necessary.

In summary, while there are several potential explanations for the blackish bump on your face, including cysts, nodular acne, or benign tumors, a definitive diagnosis can only be made through a clinical evaluation. It is advisable to seek medical attention to ensure proper care and to address any underlying issues effectively.

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