Pimple heal. How to Heal a Popped Pimple Quickly and Safely in 5 Easy Steps
How to heal a popped pimple? What are the steps to heal a popped pimple quickly and safely? Discover the 5 easy steps to heal a popped pimple.
Why You Should Never Pop Your Pimples
Popping pimples can lead to cross-contamination of bacteria, possible infection, and potential for visible scarring. It may also push some of the contents of the clogged pore deeper into the skin, increasing inflammation and leading to more breakouts. “A popped pimple is basically an open wound that needs to heal,” says Jennifer Weiss, a dermatology PA at Marmur Medical. Picking at a pimple is like picking a scab – the more you prod at it, the longer it will take for the skin to heal.
How Long Does It Take for a Popped Pimple to Heal?
Weiss says that if you pop a pimple, it usually takes about two weeks for the wound to heal, although acne scars and marks can persist for longer. Compare that to an unpopped pimple, which will typically resolve itself within three to five days, and it’s clear why it’s best to leave your breakouts untouched. However, some deep pimples will still take weeks to heal, even if you don’t pop them.
What to Put on a Popped Pimple
When it comes to treating a popped pimple, less is more. “To promote healing, it’s best to only use gentle products on the skin, excluding anything exfoliating that contains acids,” says Weiss. That means putting down the spot treatments and anti-acne products. Instead, she recommends icing occasionally to calm swelling and applying an antibacterial ointment twice a day to speed up healing. Hydrocolloid pimple patches will also help keep the affected area clean and prevent you from re-popping or picking at the wound. Lastly, make sure to continue using sunscreen to minimize the risk of any hyperpigmentation or scarring.
How to Reduce Redness After Popping a Pimple
It’s common to still see a red or purple spot after popping a pimple. To ease redness, look to soothing skincare products with anti-inflammatory ingredients like green tea and aloe, and apply them as a spot treatment. Dr. Marmur recommends the MMBalance Serum and red light therapy from the MMSphere2GO for 20 minutes a day, for seven days. The SkinCeuticals Phyto Corrective Gel is another great option, as it’s a soothing gel serum with a blend of botanical extracts and hyaluronic acid that visibly reduces redness.
How to Prevent Scarring After Popping a Pimple
To prevent scarring after popping a pimple, Dr. Marmur warns against picking, re-popping or attempting to dry out the pimple with acids. Instead, focus on cleanliness and hydration. A hydrocolloid pimple patch will help hydrate the area and protect it from any grime, plus it will deter you from touching the pimple. Applying an antibacterial ointment twice a day will also help seal in moisture and encourage a smooth healing process.
How to Heal a Popped Pimple in 5 Easy Steps
If you’ve already popped a pimple, here are the steps to help it heal quickly and safely:
- Cleanse Your Skin: When the skin around the blemish is broken, it can be more susceptible to unwanted bacteria. Cleanse your skin immediately, as well as every morning and night, to ensure you’re removing surface debris, dirt, and makeup before it has a chance to clog your pores.
- Ice the Area: Applying a cold compress or ice pack to the area can help reduce swelling and inflammation, which can speed up the healing process.
- Apply an Antibacterial Ointment: Use an over-the-counter antibacterial ointment, such as hydrocolloid patches or a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer, to help keep the area clean and promote healing.
- Protect with a Patch: Use a hydrocolloid pimple patch to cover the affected area. This will help protect the skin, prevent further irritation, and deter you from touching or picking at the pimple.
- Avoid Irritants: Steer clear of harsh skincare products, excessive exfoliation, and direct sunlight, all of which can further irritate the area and slow down the healing process.
How Can You Prevent Future Pimples From Popping?
The best way to prevent pimples from popping in the first place is to have a consistent skincare routine that includes gentle cleansing, targeted spot treatments, and regular use of sunscreen. Avoid touching or picking at your skin, and be patient – pimples will typically resolve themselves within a few days if left alone.
Remember, while it may be tempting to pop a pimple, it’s generally best to leave them be. Popping a pimple can lead to longer healing times, increased inflammation, and an increased risk of scarring. By following the steps outlined above, you can help your popped pimple heal quickly and safely, minimizing the risk of further skin damage.
How to Heal a Popped Pimple Quickly and Safely in 5 Easy Steps
November 29, 2022
By:
Jessica Khorsandi | skincare.com by L’Oréal
Most of us know that popping a pimple is considered a no-no in the world of skincare. But if we’re being honest, we all give into temptation and pick a pimple from time to time. For some of us, picking at our skin is a tough compulsion to break, even if we know the damage our skin can incur from it. Because no matter what, once you’re done picking and prodding at a pimple, you’re going to need to do some damage control to heal the red, angry spot that you’re left with and prevent it from turning into a scar.
Here, we spoke to two skincare experts to find out how to deal with the aftermath of a popped pimple and how to speed up the healing process.
Why You Should Never Pop Your Pimples
By picking at your skin, you risk cross-contamination of bacteria (think about how many germs are on your hands and underneath your fingernails), possible infection and the potential for visible scarring. What’s more, popping pimples may even push some of the contents of the clogged pore deeper into the skin, which can increase inflammation and lead to more breakouts.
“A popped pimple is basically an open wound that needs to heal,” says Jennifer Weiss, a dermatology PA at Marmur Medical. Think of popping a pimple like picking a scab — the more you prod at it, the longer it will take for your skin to heal.
If you’re looking for ways to heal your pimples, reach for an acne-fighting spot treatment. Spot treatments contain anti-acne ingredients that can help reduce the appearance of blemishes over time. They may not work overnight, but they can be incredibly effective with continued use. We like the Vichy Normaderm S.O.S. Acne Rescue Spot Corrector, which dries up existing blemishes and fights new ones from forming.
How Long Does It Take for a Popped Pimple to Heal?
Weiss says that if you pop a pimple, it usually takes about two weeks for the wound to heal, although acne scars and marks can persist for longer. Compare that to an unpopped pimple, which will typically resolve itself within three to five days, and it’s clear why it’s best to leave your breakouts untouched. Be warned, however, that some deep pimples will still take weeks to heal, even if you don’t pop them.
What to Put on a Popped Pimple
Once you’ve popped a pimple (which you should really avoid at all costs!), less is more when it comes to applying any product. “To promote healing, it’s best to only use gentle products on the skin, excluding anything exfoliating that contains acids,” says Weiss. That means putting down the spot treatments and anti-acne products. Instead, she recommends icing occasionally to calm swelling and applying an antibacterial ointment twice a day to speed up healing. Hydrocolloid pimple patches will also help keep the affected area clean and keep you from re-popping or picking at the wound.
“Lastly, make sure to continue sunscreen use to minimize the risk of any hyperpigmentation or scarring,” says Weiss. We especially like the SkinCeuticals Daily Brightening UV Defense Sunscreen SPF 30 for its ability to brighten and even out the skin.
How to Reduce Redness After Popping a Pimple
It’s common to still see a red or purple spot after you’ve popped a pimple. To ease redness, look to soothing skincare products with anti-inflammatory ingredients like green tea and aloe, and apply them as a spot treatment. Dr. Marmur recommends the MMBalance Serum and red light therapy from the MMSphere2GO for 20 minutes a day, for seven days. The SkinCeuticals Phyto Corrective Gel is another great option — it’s a soothing gel serum with a blend of botanical extracts and hyaluronic acid that visibly reduces redness.
How to Prevent Scarring After Popping a Pimple
Dr. Marmur warns against picking, re-popping or attempting to dry out the pimple with acids — basically, keep your hands off for a while and focus on cleanliness and hydration. A hydrocolloid pimple patch will help hydrate the area and protect it from any grime, plus it will deter you from touching the pimple. Applying an antibacterial ointment twice a day will also help seal in moisture and encourage a smooth healing process.
How to Heal a Popped Pimple in 5 Easy Steps
What should you do after you pop a pimple? Well, the area around your blemish may appear irritated immediately after you pick at it, but there are ways to speed up the healing process. Before you panic, follow these steps:
1. Cleanse Your Skin
When the skin around the blemish is broken, it can be more susceptible to unwanted bacteria. Cleanse your skin immediately, as well as every morning and night (whether you have a pimple present or not) to ensure that you’re removing surface debris, dirt and makeup before it has a chance to clog your pores. Just be sure that your cleanser is a gentle one considering that your skin is still healing. We love the CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser because it gently and effectively removes dirt and excess oil without stripping the skin’s necessary moisture.
2. Apply Ice and Antibiotic Ointment
It might seem counterintuitive, but drying acids and spot treatments will not help a popped pimple — instead, they may cause further irritation. Skip the acids and spot treatments in favor of gentle, soothing products.
In order to calm swelling and inflammation, Weiss suggests applying ice to the breakout. When you ice, just make sure to wrap the cube in a cloth so it doesn’t touch your bare skin, and only leave it on your skin for 10-20 minutes. She also recommends applying an antibiotic ointment as a spot treatment twice a day. Check in with your dermatologist to find a good option for your skin.
3. Moisturize
Even if you have oily, acne-prone skin, you should still be using a hydrating moisturizer daily, as spot treatments and acne-fighting cleansers have a tendency to be drying. Plus, if your skin doesn’t receive enough moisture, it can actually start overcompensating by secreting more oil.
To ensure that you replenish any lost moisture, you’re going to want to grab a moisturizer or cream that works with your skin type. If you’re looking for a non-comedogenic moisturizer, we love the Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Oil-Free Moisturizer for acne-prone skin.
4. Leave It Alone
After you apply your antibacterial ointment and moisturizer, keep your hands away from your face and allow your skin to heal on its own. Avoid touching your pimples with your fingers as much as possible. By touching the blemish, you’re only inviting more bacteria in to potentially irritate the area even further. Applying a pimple patch is a great way to keep the area clean and your hands off. The Hero Cosmetics Mighty Patch Original is a good option because it ensures you won’t pick your pimple and helps to remove the gunk from it overnight.
5.
Pause on Applying Makeup
While it may be tempting to cover up the offending area with concealer and foundation right away, it’s best to keep the area clean and hydrated. If you can, wait to put on your makeup. Once your skin has recovered and the area is no longer raw, you can help camouflage its appearance by reaching for a high-coverage concealer, like the Dermablend Cover Care Full Coverage Concealer.
How to Treat a Pimple — Without Popping It
Instead of popping it, here’s your game plan for how to treat your next pimple.
1. Cleanse Your Skin
Wash your face with a cleanser — you don’t necessarily need to use one with anti-acne ingredients, especially if you plan to use a spot treatment after. The CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser is a great option for both fresh and popped pimples because of its gentle yet effective formula.
2. Apply a Spot Treatment
Now is the time that you can try to dry out the pimple and unclog your pores with a spot treatment. “You can try over-the-counter options with benzoyl peroxide, sulfur alpha or beta-hydroxy-acids,” Dr. Robert Finney, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist at Entière Dermatology in New York City, previously told Skincare.com. The Vichy Normaderm S.O.S Acne Rescue Spot Corrector combines 10% sulfur with glycolic acid and niacinamide to dry up blemishes and prevent new ones from forming. You can apply it daily to freshly cleansed skin before applying a non-comedogenic moisturizer.
3. Top With a Pimple Patch
Resist the temptation to pick and pop by covering the breakout with a pimple patch. Dr. Finney finds the ZitSticka particularly helpful for active breakouts. “They have salicylic acid to help coax the pimple to the surface and the hydrocolloid dressing absorbs the contents of the pimple,” he told Skincare.com.
Photographer:
Chaunte Vaughn
14 Home Remedies for Pimples
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Supplements and spot treatments may help prevent acne and help heal pimples. Certain dietary changes may also help.
Acne is one of the most common skin conditions in the world, affecting an estimated 85 percent of young adults.
Conventional acne treatments, like salicylic acid, niacinamide, or benzoyl peroxide, are proven to be the most effective acne solutions, but they can be expensive and have undesirable side effects, such as dryness, redness, and irritation.
This has prompted many people to try to cure acne naturally at home. In fact, a 2017 study found that 77 percent of acne patients had tried alternative acne treatments.
Many home remedies lack scientific backing, and further research on their effectiveness is needed. If you’re looking for alternative treatments, though, there are still options you can try.
This article explores 14 popular home remedies for acne.
Acne is a skin condition that occurs when your skin follicles become blocked with oil and dead skin cells. It’s a very common condition, and most people have experienced acne in their lifetime, especially during their teen years as their sebaceous glands produce more oil.
However, there’s no age limit to acne and many people in their 40s and 50s have adult acne.
Acne starts when the pores in your skin get clogged with oil and dead skin cells.
Each pore is connected to a sebaceous gland, which produces an oily substance called sebum. Extra sebum can plug pores, causing increased growth of bacteria known as Propionibacterium acnes, or P. acnes.
Your white blood cells attack P. acnes, leading to skin inflammation and acne. Some cases of acne are more severe than others, but common symptoms include whiteheads, blackheads, and pimples.
Many factors may contribute to the development of acne, including:
- genetics
- diet
- stress
- hormone changes
- infections
Standard clinical treatments are the most effective for reducing acne. You can also try home treatments, though more research on their effectiveness is needed. Below are 14 home remedies for acne.
- Pros: affordable, easy to find, improves the appearance of acne scars
- Cons: may irritate the skin
Apple cider vinegar is made by fermenting apple cider, or the unfiltered juice from pressed apples.
Like other vinegars, research has noted its ability to fight many types of bacteria and fungi.
Apple cider vinegar contains organic acids, such as citric acid. Research from 2016 notes citric acid has been found to kill P. acnes in conjunction with zinc oxide.
According to research from 2017, the lactic acid in apple cider vinegar may also improve the appearance of acne scars.
While certain components of apple cider vinegar may help with acne, there’s currently no evidence to support its use for this purpose. Some dermatologists advise against using apple cider vinegar at all, as it may irritate the skin.
How to
- Mix 1 part apple cider vinegar and 3 parts water (use more water for sensitive skin).
- After cleansing, gently apply the mixture to the skin using a cotton ball.
- Let it sit for 5 to 20 seconds, rinse with water and pat dry.
- Repeat this process 1 to 2 times per day, as needed.
It’s important to note that applying apple cider vinegar to your skin can cause burns and irritation, and most dermatologists wouldn’t recommend it. If you choose to try it, use it in small amounts and dilute it with water.
Applying apple cider vinegar to the skin may cause burns or irritation, so it should be used carefully. Always do a patch test before you use it on your face.
- Pros: supported by scientific studies, wide variety of benefits
- Cons: can irritate the stomach or gut, not beneficial when applied topically
Zinc is an essential nutrient that’s important for cell growth, hormone production, metabolism, and immune function.
It’s relatively well studied compared with other natural treatments for acne.
According to a 2020 meta-analysis, those who were treated with zinc had significant improvements in inflamed blemish count compared with those who were not.
The recommended safe upper limit of zinc is 40 mg per day, so it’s probably best to not exceed that amount unless you’re under the supervision of a medical doctor.
Taking too much zinc may cause adverse effects, including stomach pain and gut irritation.
It’s also important to note that applying zinc to the skin has not been shown to be effective. This may be because zinc is not effectively absorbed through the skin.
- Pros: antibacterial, easy to make
- Cons: not enough research to back up the claims
A 2017 study found that the combination of honey and cinnamon bark extract exerted antibacterial effects against P. acnes.
Research from 2020 indicated that honey on its own can block the growth of or kill P. acnes. Although, this finding doesn’t necessarily mean that honey effectively treats acne.
A 2016 study with 136 people with acne found that applying honey to the skin after using antibacterial soap was no more effective at treating acne than using the soap on its own.
While the anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties of honey and cinnamon may reduce acne, more research is needed.
How to
- Mix 2 tablespoons of honey and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon to form a paste.
- After cleansing, apply the mask to your face and leave it on for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Rinse the mask off completely and pat your face dry.
Cinnamon may cause skin irritation. Always do a patch test before you apply it to your skin.
- Pros: don’t need a lot of product, can be left on overnight, natural
- Cons: drying, essential oils aren’t FDA approved
Tea tree oil is an essential oil that’s extracted from the leaves of Melaleuca alternifolia, a small tree native to Australia.
A 2018 study found that applying tea tree oil to the skin may reduce acne.
A small 2019 study found that, compared with benzoyl peroxide, participants using a tea tree oil ointment for acne experienced less dry skin and irritation. They also felt more satisfied with the treatment.
According to a 2017 study, tea tree oil may be an effective substitute for topical and oral antibiotics that could cause bacterial resistance if used long term.
Tea tree oil is very potent, so always dilute it before applying it to your skin.
How to
- Mix 1 part tea tree oil with 9 parts water.
- Dip a cotton swab into the mixture and apply it to the affected areas.
- Apply moisturizer if desired.
- Repeat this process 1 to 2 times per day, as needed.
While research suggests there are health benefits, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) doesn’t monitor or regulate the purity or quality of essential oils. It’s important to talk with a healthcare professional before you begin using essential oils and be sure to research the quality of a brand’s products. Always do a patch test before trying a new essential oil and dilute any essential oil with a carrier oil so it doesn’t burn your skin.
- Pros: easy to make, a variety of benefits, natural
- Cons: not enough studies done
Green tea is very high in antioxidants, and drinking it can promote good health. It may also help reduce acne.
According to 2017 research, this is likely because the polyphenols in green tea help fight bacteria and reduce inflammation, which are two main causes of acne.
There isn’t much research exploring the benefits of drinking green tea when it comes to acne, and more studies are needed.
In a small 2016 study with 80 women, participants took 1,500 mg of green tea extract daily for 4 weeks. By the end of the study, women who took the extract had less acne on their noses, chins, and around their mouths.
Applying green tea to the skin may also be beneficial.
A 2020 study found that applying green tea extract to the skin significantly reduces sebum production and pimples in those with acne.
You can buy creams and lotions that contain green tea, but it’s just as easy to make your own mixture at home.
How to
- Steep green tea in boiling water for 3 to 4 minutes.
- Allow the brewed tea to cool.
- Using a cotton ball, apply the tea to your skin or pour it into a spray bottle to spritz it on.
- Allow it to dry, then rinse it off with water and pat your skin dry.
You can also add the remaining tea leaves to honey and make a mask.
- Pros: natural, found in many products
- Cons: very little research to back up the claims
Witch hazel is extracted from the bark and leaves of the North American witch hazel shrub, Hamamelis virginiana. Currently, there appears to be very little research on witch hazel’s ability to treat acne specifically.
In one small 2017 study funded by a skin care company, 30 individuals with mild or moderate acne used a three-step facial treatment twice daily for 6 weeks.
Witch hazel was one of the ingredients in the second step of the treatment. Most participants experienced significant improvement in their acne by the end of the study.
Research from 2019 also suggested witch hazel may fight bacteria and reduce skin irritation and inflammation, which can contribute to acne.
How to
- Combine 1 tablespoon of witch hazel bark and 1 cup of water in a small saucepan.
- Soak the witch hazel for 30 minutes and then bring the mixture to a boil on the stove.
- Reduce to a simmer and cook, covered, for 10 minutes.
- Remove the mixture from the heat and let it sit for an additional 10 minutes.
- Strain and store the liquid in a sealed container.
- Apply to clean skin using a cotton ball 1 to 2 times per day, or as desired.
It’s important to note that commercially prepared versions may not contain tannins, as they are often lost in the distillation process.
- Pros: natural, found in many products, can be combined with other ingredients
- Cons: not a lot of studies to back up the claims, many products contain additives
Aloe vera is a tropical plant whose leaves produce a clear gel. The gel is often added to lotions, creams, ointments, and soaps.
According to 2018 research, it’s commonly used to treat:
- abrasions
- rashes
- burns
- wounds
- skin inflammation
Aloe vera contains salicylic acid and sulfur, both of which are used extensively in the treatment of acne. Research from 2017 found that applying salicylic acid to the skin reduces acne.
A 2018 study indicated aloe vera gel, when combined with other substances like tretinoin cream or tea tree oil, may improve acne.
While research shows promise, the anti-acne benefits of aloe vera itself require further scientific research.
How to
- Scrape the gel from the aloe plant with a spoon.
- Apply the gel directly to clean skin as a moisturizer.
- Repeat 1 to 2 times per day, or as desired.
You can also buy aloe vera gel from the store, but make sure it’s pure aloe without any added ingredients.
- Pros: easy, found in food
- Cons: takes some time to see results
Omega-3 fatty acids are healthy fats that offer a multitude of health benefits. Fish oils contain two main types of omega-3 fatty acids: eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).
A 2019 study showed that high levels of EPA and DHA can decrease inflammatory factors, which may reduce the risk of acne.
You can also get omega-3 fatty acids by eating:
- salmon
- sardines
- anchovies
- walnuts
- chia seeds
- ground flax seeds
- fish oil supplements
- Pros: easy to do at home, many products on the market, both chemical and physical options available
- Cons: possibility to over-exfoliate
Exfoliation is the process of removing the top layer of dead skin cells. It may improve acne by removing the skin cells that clog pores.
Exfoliating may also make acne treatments for the skin more effective by allowing them to penetrate deeper, once the topmost layer of skin is removed.
Currently, the research on exfoliation and its ability to treat acne is limited.
In one small 2016 study, 38 patients with acne received eight microdermabrasion treatments at weekly intervals. The participants with acne scars showed some improvements following the treatments.
A small 2017 study found that six weekly microdermabrasion treatments helped stimulate skin repair.
While these results indicate exfoliation may improve skin health and appearance, more research is needed on acne.
There are a wide variety of exfoliation products available, but you can also make a scrub at home using sugar or salt.
Note that physical exfoliation can be irritating and may damage the skin. As such, some dermatologists recommend gentle chemical exfoliation with salicylic or glycolic-acid products.
If you choose to try mechanical exfoliation, gently rub your skin to avoid damaging it.
Try Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant.
How to
- Mix equal parts sugar (or salt) and coconut oil.
- Gently rub your skin with the mixture and rinse well.
- Exfoliate as often as desired, up to once daily.
- Pros: reduces insulin, good for the body
- Cons: harder to track, not enough studies to back up the claims
A food’s glycemic index (GI) is a measure of how quickly it raises your blood sugar.
Eating high GI foods causes a spike in insulin, which likely increases sebum production. As a result, high GI foods may directly affect the development and severity of acne.
In a 2018 study, 66 people followed either a normal or low glycemic diet. After 2 weeks, the individuals consuming a low glycemic diet had lower levels of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), a hormone involved in acne development.
Another 2017 study with 64 people found that those with moderate or severe acne ate diets with more carbohydrates and a higher glycemic load than those without acne.
These small studies suggested a low glycemic diet may help those with acne-prone skin. Additional larger, longer studies are needed.
Foods with a high glycemic index include processed foods, such as:
- white bread
- sugary soft drinks
- cakes
- doughnuts
- pastries
- candies
- sugary breakfast cereals
Foods with a low glycemic index include:
- fruits
- vegetables
- legumes
- nuts
- whole or minimally processed grains
- Pros: can reduce acne
- Cons: controversial, needs more research
The relationship between dairy and acne is highly controversial.
A 2019 study with people ages 10 to 24 found that drinking whole milk three or more days each week was linked to moderate or severe acne.
In a 2018 study including 114 participants, those with acne were found to drink significantly more milk than people who didn’t have acne.
On the other hand, another 2018 study involving over 20,000 adults found no association between milk consumption and acne.
Participants self-reported the data in these studies, so more research is needed to establish a true causal relationship.
The relationship between milk and acne needs further study.
- Pros: can reduce acne, good for the body
- Cons: needs more research
The link between stress and acne is not fully understood.
When you’re stressed, you might also be more likely to pick at spots on your face. Touching or picking your skin more than necessary can increase acne by spreading bacteria.
According to 2017 research, the hormones released during periods of stress may increase sebum production and inflammation, making acne worse.
A 2018 study noted that certain relaxation and stress reduction treatments may improve acne, but more research needs to be done.
How to
- get more sleep
- engage in physical activity
- practice yoga
- meditate
- take deep breaths
- Pros: can reduce acne, good for the body, regulates hormones
- Cons: not washing your face after exercising could lead to more acne
There’s little research on the effects of exercise on acne. Still, exercise affects bodily functions in ways that may help improve acne.
A 2018 study noted that exercise also plays a role in hormone levels and regulation.
Another 2018 study suggested exercise can decrease stress and anxiety, both of which can contribute to the development of acne.
The CDC recommends adults do two types of physical activity each week for a total of 150 minutes. This can include walking, hiking, running, and lifting weights.
If you’re exercising outside, always protect your skin from ultraviolet (UV) rays with a broad spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30.
Remember: Always wash your face after exercising. Washing with water and a cleanser will remove sweat and bacteria to prevent breakouts.
- Pros: can take orally or topically, easy to find
- Cons: takes a few months to work
Brewer’s or baker’s yeast is another option that may have benefits for fighting acne.
According to a 2021 publication, a strain of brewer’s yeast called Hansen CBS may help decrease acne when taken orally.
A much older 1989 study of 139 people with acne showed that 80 percent of those using Hansen CBS brewer’s yeast were healed or considerably improved over a 5-month period, while a placebo group showed only a 26 percent improvement.
At the same time, most recent research shows that a brewer’s yeast elimination diet is helpful for another skin condition called hidradenitis suppurativa.
With these conflicting findings and limited research, more studies are needed to confirm the role of brewer’s yeast in the treatment of acne.
How to
- Mix one packet of powdered brewer’s yeast with 1 tbsp lemon juice.
- Blend thoroughly.
- Add mixture to a clean face and leave for 1 minute.
- Rinse with lukewarm water.
- Pat dry.
You can also incorporate brewer’s yeast into your diet by mixing it with juice or water, or you can take it in supplement form.
Use caution when applying any citrus juice, including lemon, to your skin. It can cause photosensitivity that can lead to irritation and rash if exposed to sunlight.
Be sure to apply extra SPF, and wear a hat or scarf to protect your skin if you’re exposed to the sun.
While there’s no completely foolproof way to get rid of acne forever, there are habits you can add to your routine that may help keep breakouts at bay. Here are some ideas:
- Wash your face properly: To help prevent pimples, it’s important to remove excess oil, dirt, and sweat daily.
- Use a moisturizer: Even if you have acne, keeping your skin hydrated is essential. When skin is dry, it produces oil to counterbalance, which may result in excess sebum and clogged pores.
- Limit makeup: Using a lot of makeup may clog pores and trigger breakouts. If you do use makeup, make sure it’s noncomedogenic and fragrance-free to prevent skin irritation. Always wash makeup off, especially before bedtime.
- Resist touching your face: Touching your face can transfer bacteria — and pore-clogging impurities — onto your skin.
- Limit sun exposure: Frequent sun exposure dehydrates the skin, which, over time, causes it to produce more oil and block pores.
- Don’t pop pimples: Popping pimples may cause bleeding, severe scarring, or infection. It may also increase inflammation and clog surrounding pores, making your pimple problem worse.
People with moderate to severe acne should seek professional help to find relief. Prescription-strength acne treatments are available.
It may be time to seek professional help from a dermatologist if you:
- tried everything and nothing seems to help
- have recurring breakouts that clear up and return
- get acne in places like your thighs or upper arms
- have acne that’s painful and deep under the skin
- have breakouts that have been going on for years
- have acne that affects your confidence, self-esteem, and social life
- think your acne may be linked to a new medication you’re on
- have acne that leaves dark spots
Even if you have a mild case of acne, it may be helpful to visit a doctor regularly to see how your skin progresses with treatment.
Are home remedies for acne effective?
Many people choose to try natural remedies. Most home remedies for acne have not been shown to be clinically effective, but they’re available as alternative treatment options.
Nevertheless, you may want to consult a dermatologist if you have severe acne.
How fast do home treatments for acne work?
Give an acne treatment at least 4 weeks to work. Using a different product every few days can also irritate your skin, causing new breakouts.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, if a treatment works for you, you should notice some improvement in 4 to 6 weeks.
How do you get rid of acne scars?
Acne scars don’t go away on their own. But in-office procedures, like lasers, micro-needling, microdermabrasion, resurfacing, or fillers, can help improve their appearance.
Regular exfoliation and home remedies, like apple cider vinegar, can also reduce the appearance of acne scars.
Acne is a common skin condition with a number of underlying causes.
Experts agree that conventional treatments, like salicylic acid, niacinamide, or benzoyl peroxide, are the most effective, though some people may find them irritating.
Many people choose to try natural remedies. Most home remedies for acne have not been shown to be clinically effective, but they’re available as alternative treatment options.
Nevertheless, you may want to consult a dermatologist if you have severe acne.
Read this article in Spanish.
How to quickly remove a pimple and a trace of it: the best means and methods
Pimples spoil the lives of many women, and not only at a young age. The problem of acne is solved by complex therapy, selected by a dermatologist. But what if you need to quickly remove a pimple that has jumped up on your face inappropriately?
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Skin care
Facial skin care
Problem skin
perfect skin
acne
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Acne can cause a lot of discomfort, including emotional ones. Many are embarrassed by problematic skin, desperately masking it, only exacerbating the situation. Some comedones are painful. The first rule is to never push a pimple on your own. Only a dermatologist-cosmetologist can safely clean the pores. But sometimes there is a need to quickly remove acne at home, and we will show you how to do it quickly.
How to quickly remove a pimple overnight
A sudden inflammation can ruin your mood and even make you change your plans for going out. If you dream of waking up with clean skin, we will show you how to quickly remove a pimple on your face using a simple remedy. Ordinary aspirin hurries to the rescue – this tablet is generally included in the best pharmacy products for creating beauty!
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Crush a couple of tablets and add some water. Apply the resulting thick paste with a cotton swab dotted to the desired area and leave overnight. Acetylsalicylic acid in the composition of the drug helps both to relieve headaches and quickly remove red pimples. It has an anti-inflammatory effect and perfectly dries imperfections on the face.
Another medicine can easily be entrusted with the fight against black spots. And as soon as you add honey or oil to the gruel, the composition will also help to quickly remove acne spots, soothe and soften the skin and cleanse the pores. The mask according to this recipe should be applied for 15 minutes and then washed off.
How to quickly remove a subcutaneous pimple
Have you ever thought about how to quickly remove an internal pimple? Such inflammations often respond with pain when pressing on the affected area. The focus of inflammation is located deep under the dermis, so it is more difficult to defeat it. At first, closed comedones are not visible to the eyes, but almost immediately cause discomfort. Often, the seal does not go away instantly, but only increases in size over time. It may take several weeks to mature.
Fortunately, there are effective, proven and, not least, cheap products that quickly remove subcutaneous acne. These are balsamic liniment (according to Vishnevsky) and ichthyol ointment. Their action lies in the ability to draw out the internal contents of the pimple. The drug is applied to subcutaneous formations daily.
How to quickly remove squeezed pimples at home
If you still could not resist and dealt with insidious pimples with your own hands, it is important to remember how to quickly remove acne marks. The main task is to prevent inflammation and relieve redness. This will help salicylic acid, which destroys bacteria and helps exfoliate problem areas of the skin.
Salicylic ointment can be purchased at any pharmacy. It has disinfectant and drying properties. You should only be careful when using it and apply the remedy only on inflammations. It allows you to quickly remove redness from a pimple, but as soon as it gets on healthy skin, it mercilessly dries it. Be sure to use a moisturizer in the morning.
How to quickly remove a pimple on the forehead
Bangs save the day and at the same time promote the formation of comedones, especially with excessive sweating. So it’s better not to hide pimples, but to know how to quickly remove them and squeezing marks. Pharmaceutical preparations based on benzoyl peroxide (Baziron), synthomycin liniment or erythromycin (Zinerite) can settle scores with a pimple that has jumped up in the most visible place.
Here are examples of folk remedies on how to quickly and effectively remove acne on the forehead. For example, tea tree oil works well. The all-natural remedy has antibacterial properties and soothes irritated skin. Lemon juice kills bacteria and tightens pores. The juice squeezed from the fruit can be applied to the desired area with a cotton pad. Apply any of the selected remedies for inflammation and leave it overnight, in the morning it will decrease significantly.
By the way, doctors say that rashes on the forehead indicate violations of the intestines. Perhaps it makes sense to consult a doctor so that he gives appropriate recommendations on this problem.
How to quickly get rid of a pimple on your nose
Areas at particular risk of acne are the forehead, nose and chin. The so-called T-zone. The skin in these areas produces the most sebum, which can clog pores. So how to quickly remove a pimple on the nose? To fight a comedone that has jumped up in this place, you can use any of the above means. Let’s add a few more to this list:
- sulfur mash from the pharmacy
- salicylic suspension with zinc “Propeller”
- acyclovir
- chlorhexidine
To quickly remove redness after acne and comedones themselves, apply the product with a cotton swab and try not to touch the place with your hands. The result will not be long in coming. According to experts, acne on the nose is the result of violations of the pancreas and liver.
Many girls, when it is not possible to quickly remove acne, believe that a squeezed pimple is the solution to the problem. But this way you can get the opposite result – there will only be more inflammation. In the salon, the master performs the procedure in a sterile atmosphere, repeatedly treating the skin of the face. It is unlikely that at home you will be able to ensure compliance with such conditions.
Once pimples start bothering you too often, constantly causing redness on your face, it will be difficult to remove them yourself. It is better to contact a dermatologist-cosmetologist. He will direct you to the necessary tests to identify the cause of the disease, and in accordance with this, he will prescribe adequate therapy from medical cosmetics and medicines for oral administration.
So, we figured out the face! Now find out how to get rid of back acne forever.
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How to quickly get rid of acne on the face and not only
September 27, 2022
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Health
Without toothpaste and picking.
What can help get rid of pimples faster
Unfortunately, a pimple needs time to mature and disappear, so it won’t work in a couple of hours. But the process can be accelerated. For this, such means are suitable.
Benzoyl Peroxide Treatment
The best way to get rid of a pimple quickly is to apply a topical benzoyl peroxide treatment such as a gel or cream. The concentration can be 2.5, 5 or 10%. This substance kills bacteria, exfoliates the skin, reduces the amount of sebum and dissolves blackheads, so it is suitable for both SOS help and regular care. This does not mean that the abscess will dissolve in 10 minutes, but things will definitely go faster.
But be careful with applying in the same place – you can dry out the skin. Therefore, if somewhere acne appears especially often, it is better to choose a drug with a lower concentration.
Tea Tree Oil
This essential oil helps with inflammation when applied directly to a pimple, but some people are allergic to it. Therefore, if you want to try this method, it is better to practice in advance, and not before some important event – an allergic reaction will attract more attention than acne. Also, do not smear oil on damaged skin, so as not to provoke irritation – contact dermatitis.
Zinc mash
This is a cheap remedy that dries up inflammation and kills bacteria. The main component is zinc oxide. It does not dissolve, so be sure to shake the mixture before use – hence the name. Sometimes it contains other substances, such as antibiotics, which also not only kill bacteria, but also have an anti-inflammatory effect. This solution is applied pointwise with a cotton swab, after which the liquid dries up and a powder remains on the pimple, which can even be left overnight.
What will help make the pimple less noticeable
If the methods suggested above did not work as well as we would like, then it is better to focus on masking than on further experiments. At least the result can be predicted. Try these tools.
Ice
It will not help to remove the abscess in any way, but there is still a slight cooling effect. If you apply a cloth-wrapped ice cube to the inflammation, the redness and swelling may temporarily decrease slightly.
Makeup
Concealer and skillful hands can make a pimple much less noticeable. This is not the best way, but sometimes there is no other way. Do not use the same brush as usual. Apply the product with a cotton swab so as not to bring unwanted microorganisms into the vial.
Another way to hide a pimple is to turn it into a mole with an eyebrow pencil. Covering up an abscess, of course, is not very useful, but definitely better than picking.
Which is unlikely to help get rid of acne
What only do not offer to apply to inflammation. It is a pity that at best the method will be ineffective, and at worst it will spoil the skin even more.
Toothpaste
Although toothpaste may contain substances that fight germs and dry out the skin, it is not necessary to use it in this way. From it, the skin will only become more irritated, and the pimple will not go anywhere.
Warmth
A warm towel can give the feeling that irritated skin is soothed. But you can’t heat acne: there are more microbes, and inflammation intensifies. High fever and pus are incompatible, so it’s better not to.
Squeezing out
This is Russian roulette in reverse: in one case, it will be possible to carefully pull out the contents and the pimple will pass, and in the remaining five, half of the face will be smashed. Even clean, treated hands and special devices like a takeaway spoon or loop do not guarantee that the inflammation will not get worse. In addition, after unsuccessful home cleaning, scars may remain.
Aspirin tablet
If you crush an acetylsalicylic acid tablet, dilute it with water and apply pointwise to a pimple, it will definitely not go away. While salicylic acid is thought to help with acne, dermatologists advise against its use as a topical treatment.