Single whitehead pimple in different parts of my body

[prostateman]

Not sure why, but I keep on getting a single whitehead pimple, very small, anywhere on my leg, stomach, chest, neck, face, arms, hand foot.  No pain.  Goes away in a day or two, but then another one pops up in a different location.  

Any ideas on what this could be?  I use DOVE soap and take at least one shower a day.  I also use Panoxyl as well.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
It looks like folliculitis. Folliculitis is the inflammation of one or more hair follicles. The condition may occur anywhere on the skin.It starts when hair follicles are damaged by friction from clothing or blockage of the follicle. In most cases of folliculitis, the damaged follicles are then infected with the bacteria Staphylococcus (staph).

You should keep the area clean and apply some topical antiseptics. Also wear loose-fitting cotton clothing and use an antibacterial soap or mild soap like dove.Avoid any kind of cosmetics. Topical antibiotics such as mupirocin or neomycin containing ointment are also useful.In case the symptoms persist then oral antibiotics may be needed. Please consult a dermatologist in that case.
It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.

[Arti Sharma, M.D.]

Hi there,
A white head is a closed comedone caused to blockage of skin pores after accumulation of oil or sebum. They are more common in areas with many oil glands like nose, cheeks, face, back and shoulders. Another possibility is that these are boils which are usually caused by bacteria Staphylococci .It is often the cause of recurring boils. Avoid itching as this can lead to spread of infection. I will advise you to see a primary care physician and get it checked. Treatment will depend on the cause.
Best luck and regards!