Got a pimple? Here’s how to zap your zit fast
Zits, spots, pimples – we all get them, usually at the worst time. Here are some proven ways to be rid of these annoying skin blemishes quickly.
We’ve all been there: you’re getting ready for a special event when you notice a big, red pimple on your chin.
Let’s get one thing straight – pimples are normal, and they happen to everyone, not just teenagers.
“Pimples are, like taxes, part of being alive,” dermal therapist James Vivian says.
These skin blemishes happen for different reasons, including changes in hormone levels and taking certain medications, but most of the time, zits are triggered by a build-up of oil and sebum in your pores, which clog and form a lump on the skin.
No matter the cause, pimples can often look red and angry, and they can make you feel self-conscious.
On average, a pimple will take three to seven days to fully heal.
The good news is the following techniques can help kickstart the healing process:
Don’t squeeze your pimple
It can be tempting to give that zit a squeeze, but you may end up doing more harm to your skin than good.
Not only can it introduce further bacteria into your skin, but trying to pop a pimple can also slow the healing process, and may lead to scarring.
Is a pimple really ever ready to be popped?
Keep it clean
A pimple will heal faster if the surrounding area is kept clean.
“Wash the affected area with a gentle, non-irritating cleanser two times a day,” dermatologist Dr Alpana Mohta says.
“Avoid using products that clog your pores, or irritate and further inflame the skin.”
Annod Natural Skincare founder and CEO Donna Ireland recommends avoiding products that dry out the skin, such as toners or foam cleansers.
Donna says these products “may slow down the healing process as they strip moisture from the skin and create extra oil flow.”
Compress it
There are two forms of compress that can reduce your spot.
If you’re suffering from a blind pimple (aka a zit that sits deep beneath the skin surface), a warm compress can help reduce its size and bring it to a head.
“Placing a warm compress on the pimple for 10 to 15 minutes can help to increase blood flow and reduce inflammation,” Dr Mohta says.
However, if you have red or irritated skin, a cold compress is your best bet – it can keep swelling down, reduce redness and make a pimple less noticeable.
- Healthy glow: 5 best foods for younger-looking skin
Try a pimple patch
It’s likely you’ve seen a pimple patch in recent years.
These sticky dots usually feature healing agents such as hydrocolloid and salicylic acid, which dry out the zit and reduce swelling.
While they’re not intended for blackheads, whiteheads or cystic acne, pimple patches are suitable for mild to moderate bumps, papules and pustules, plus they can stop you from picking at the area and give your skin time to heal.
Apply a patch to your pimple before you go to bed, and let it work its magic while you sleep.
Written by Alexandra Feiam.
