blemish

Blemish is a small mark or flaw that spoils the appearance or perfection of something, most commonly used to describe skin but also applied to objects and surfaces.

On the skin, blemishes refer to discolorations, lesions, or texture changes that are usually benign. Common examples include pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, red inflamed spots, and acne scars, as well as hyperpigmented areas such as age spots or melasma. Blemishes can result from acne, dermatitis, hormonal fluctuations, sun exposure, injury during healing, or genetics. Many blemishes fade with time, while others persist and may be managed with skincare or medical treatment.

Skincare strategies focus on regular cleansing, gentle exfoliation, sun protection, and the use of non-comedogenic moisturizers. Over-the-counter treatments containing benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or retinoids are commonly used for acne-related blemishes. For persistent or severe cases, a dermatologist may offer prescription medications, chemical peels, laser or light therapies, or procedures such as microdermabrasion or microneedling.

Beyond skin, blemish refers to any mark, scratch, stain, or defect that diminishes the appearance or integrity of a surface. This can apply to furniture, metal, fabric, paint, or glass. Remedies range from cleaning and polishing to refinishing or repainting.

See also: acne, scar, pigment, stain, defect.