Spotted: Something on your skin (that's *not* a zit)

No, srsly, what is that? We asked the experts how to decode and deal.

- ERIN REIMEL

We all know what pimples are (inflamed spots that form when your pores get clogged up with dirt, oil and bacteria...blech). But not every bump on your skin is a zit. Some mystery marks are totally normal, while others need extra special attention. How to handle 'em? We've got sage advice from skincare pros...

● YOU’VE GOT…SOMETHING THAT SEEMS LIKE A PIMPLE, BUT IT’S STUCK UNDER YOUR SKIN

● WHAT IT PROBABLY IS: A cyst

Cysts and zits are similar because they are both caused by sebum clogging up your skin, but a cyst doesn’t actually come to the surface. Instead, it grows under the skin and forms a lump that can get bigger over time, explains dermatologist Dr. Geeta Yadav. They’re typically painless and harmless (and often go away on their own), but they can be annoying. And, unlike zits, you can’t pop them. “Cysts are typically benign and don’t require treatment, but a dermatologist can drain or remove it if it’s bugging you,” says dermatologist Dr. Kim Nichols.

● SEE A DERM IF: You want it gone quicker.

● YOU’VE GOT…BLOTCHY PATCHES OF RED, IRRITATED SKIN

● WHAT IT PROBABLY IS: A rash

A lot of things can fall into this category, but rashes (aka contact dermatitis) can form when your skin touches something you’re allergic to—like dog dander, poison ivy or even a new laundry detergent. “It can go away on its own or with an over-the-counter steroid cream,” says Dr. Yadav.

● SEE A DERM IF: You’re still seriously uncomfy.

● YOU’VE GOT…RED, FLAKY, DRY PATCHES

● WHAT IT PROBABLY IS: Eczema