how to remove pimples from oily skin - #12882
I am dealing with this really frustrating situation with my skin, and I feel like I’m losing my mind! For like the past month, I have noticed that my oily skin has gone totally haywire, and I've been getting these really annoying pimples. I wash my face regularly, but it’s like no matter what I do, they keep popping up. I mean, I heard that stresses can make it worse, but it’s also kinda hard not to stress when you’re dealing with breakouts all the time, right? Anyway, I tried some over-the-counter creams and cleansers, but they don’t seem to help at all. I even read a blog about how to remove pimples from oily skin, which said to exfoliate more, but honestly, that just made my skin feel even oilier. Ugh! I’m worried I might be making it worse instead of better. Can someone share tips on how to remove pimples from oily skin? Like, what actually works? Am I missing something? Should I see a dermatologist or keep trying the at-home remedies? My friend suggested changing my diet, which sounds extreme but I’m open to everything at this point! Any advice would really be appreciated, cause I am ready to try anything to finally get clear skin again!
100% Anonymously
No sign-up needed.

Doctors’ responses
Dealing with pimples on oily skin can indeed be frustrating, but it sounds like you’re on the right track thinking about both lifestyle and skincare. Let’s start with a few practical tips. Firstly, while washing your face regularly is important, over-washing can sometimes stimulate more oil production. Stick to a gentle cleanser, preferably with salicylic acid, twice a day. This helps to keep your pores clear without over-drying your skin. Avoid alcohol-based cleansers which can strip your skin and increase oiliness. Exfoliating regularly can be beneficial, but doing it too aggressively might irritate your skin or increase oil production, so a gentle exfoliant once or twice a week is enough. Incorporating a non-comedogenic moisturizer in your skincare routine is essential, even if your skin feels oily, as it can help balance your skin’s moisture levels and prevent overproduction of oil. Over-the-counter products containing benzoyl peroxide can be effective spot treatments as they reduce bacteria and inflammation on the skin. If these basic strategies aren’t leading to improvement, or if your acne is persistent and severe, consulting a dermatologist could be beneficial. They can prescribe treatments such as topical retinoids or oral medications that address hormonal imbalances or bacterial components more effectively. Also, consider that diet can play a role in acne management. While the evidence isn’t definitive, some studies suggest reducing dairy and high-glycemic foods may help manage acne. Your dermatologist can offer personalized advice here. Stress management is indeed important, as stress can exacerbate acne; integrating relaxation techniques such as mindfulness or regular physical activity into your routine could help. Remember, consistency is key with all these measures—results often take time, so give any new routine at least a month to evaluate its effectiveness. If you’re ever unsure, a medical professional can provide clarity and reassurance on the next steps.
100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential. No sign-up needed.
About our doctors
Only qualified doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.