Acne sometimes referred to as pimples are skin issues that are common among people of all ages. While many people get pimples at some stage in their lifetime, these skin situations cause anxiety and confusion to many individuals. One of the most common misconceptions is that pimples can be a sign of cancer.This article aims to clarify the connection (or lack thereof) between pimples and cancer, dispelling misconceptions and offering vital information about skin health .

No direct link between pimples and cancer
Commonly, pimples occur from build-up of dirt, fluctuating hormones, stress, or improper diets. They are not at all cancer causing. Cancer on the other hand is an illness which is commonly by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells. While various types of cancers can lead to changes in the skin, pimples are generally due to blocked pores or other non-cancerous skin conditions. For most pimples, they do not have any relation with any form of cancer.

When cancer may impact the skin
Nevertheless, pimples themselves are not cancerous, but some tumors can affect skin due to hormonal changes. For example, pituitary tumors, which regulate hormones, may lead to an overproduction of ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone), triggering excess cortisol production. Nevertheless, pimples themselves are not cancerous, but some tumors can affect skin due to hormonal changes. For instance, pituitary adenomas that are responsible for hormone production may cause an increase in the secretion of cortisol-promoting hormone – ACTH. This can lead to enhanced production of oil within the skin layers, which may result in formation of acnes. Likewise, tumours on the adrenal glands causes increased levels of cortisol through the adrenocortical tumours; things like acne or skin colour change are signs of this. However, these changes are due to hormonal effects of the tumor and cannot be strictly categorized as signifying cancer. Some forms of cancer treatments can cause formation of pimple like rashes on the skin.

Skin changes that could signal cancer
Although most skin changes are harmless, certain symptoms can signal more serious conditions, including skin cancer. It is therefore essential not to confuse the normal pimples with other skin changes which may be dangerous. Pay attention to the following signs, which warrant a visit to a healthcare professional:

• A persistent rash or itching that does not respond to standard treatments
• Changes in the size, shape, or color of moles, or the appearance of new moles
• Thickening of the skin or the development of unusual lumps or bumps

If a pimple lasts longer than it should or shows any of the characteristics listed above, it could be a sign of skin cancer. In any of such circumstances, it is advisable to consult a doctor as soon as possible.

When to seek medical attention
Although pimples are not dangerous most of the time there are signs that warrant a visit to the doctor. If you notice any of the following signs, it's best to consult a healthcare professional:

• Persistent skin changes that do not respond to typical acne treatments
• Pimples that grow, change color, or bleed over time
• Unexplained changes in the texture or appearance of the skin

These changes may indicate other skin diseases or in the worst case scenarios may be a sign of skin cancer. Early detection and treatment improve outcomes and increase the likelihood of successful treatment.


It is important to note that having pimples is not in any way associated with cancer. Acnes are mainly due to reasons such as blockage of skin pores, hormonal balance fluctuations, stress and diet. Some tumours like pituitary gland tumours, adrenal gland tumours or tumours that have hormonal influences can influence the skin but do not cause pimples. If you witness abnormal or persistent cutaneous alterations, it is best advised to seek advice from a dermatologist or another healthcare practitioner. It’s important to be able to distinguish between classical acne and changes in the skin that may indicate cancer, to avoid excessive worry and seek help if necessary.

Dr. Sachin Trivedi, Director- Medical Oncology, HCG Cancer Center