Pimple Jinx

• Incantation: None stated. The spell may be cast non-verbally, or its incantation is unknown.
• Pronunciation: Not applicable.
• Wand Movement: None stated.
• Light: None stated.
• Effect: Causes the target to break out in an eruption of pimples or boils. Advanced applications of this jinx can cause the pimples to form specific shapes or words.
• Type: Jinx

The Pimple Jinx is most famously and powerfully used by Hermione Granger in Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. To ensure secrecy for Dumbledore's Army, she bewitched the parchment that all members signed. The enchantment stipulated that if any member betrayed the group to Dolores Umbridge, they would be afflicted by this jinx. When Marietta Edgecombe informed Professor Umbridge about the secret defensive group, the jinx was activated. A dense formation of purplish pimples erupted across her nose and forehead, spelling out the word “SNEAK”. This particular application of the jinx proved to be remarkably resilient. The school matron, Madam Pomfrey, a highly competent healer, confessed that she was unable to remove the pimples, stating that they defied all her attempts at magical removal. Hermione later confirmed to Harry Potter and Ron Weasley that she had designed the jinx to be long-lasting and that there was no simple counter-jinx for it. She expected the effects would eventually fade, though they might leave some scarring. The jinx itself appears to be fairly well-known among students. Earlier in the school year, Ron Weasley jokingly suggested that Harry use a Pimple Jinx on Cho Chang to get her attention, indicating it is a common spell within the general magical repertoire at Hogwarts.

The Pimple Jinx seems to be a standard-level spell learned by students at Hogwarts, given its casual mention in conversation. However, Hermione Granger's use of it demonstrates that, like many spells, its power and complexity can be significantly enhanced by the caster. Hermione's version was specifically crafted to be difficult to counteract. She stated that there was no counter-jinx for her specific enchantment on the Dumbledore's Army list. The inability of Madam Pomfrey to provide a remedy underscores the strength of the magical binding. This suggests that while a standard Pimple Jinx might be reversible, a more potent or custom-tailored version can bypass conventional healing magic and counter-spells, relying instead on fading over time.

The spell's name is purely descriptive and straightforward.

• Pimple: A common English word for a small pustule on the skin.
• Jinx: A type of Dark Magic whose effects are generally minor, irritating, and vexing rather than causing serious or permanent harm.

• In the film adaptation of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, Marietta Edgecombe's betrayal results in the word “SNEAK” appearing on her face in raised, pimple-like sores, visually representing the effect described in the novel. (film)
• Hermione Granger's clever and somewhat ruthless use of the Pimple Jinx is often cited by fans and critics as a significant character moment, showcasing her formidable magical talent and her fierce loyalty.