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how to get rid of a pimple
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Skin & Hair Concerns
Question #14756
110 days ago
132

how to get rid of a pimple - #14756

Aditya

I am really freaking out because I have this huge pimple on my forehead, like, right before a big event! I tried some over-the-counter creams, but it still looks swollen and red. I mean, I usually don’t get pimples, so this is super frustrating. I've been washing my face twice a day with a gentle cleanser, drinking plenty of water, and even thought maybe stress is making it worse, but I don't know how to get rid of a pimple like this. I read about ice packs helping, but I'm worried it will just make it worse or irritate my skin. Plus, I've heard things about popping it which bad, right? I know you're not supposed to do that, but the temptation is real! Is there any quick remedy someone can suggest? Like, how to get rid of a pimple overnight or something that won't make it worse? Any good creams or home remedies that actually work? I need this thing gone like, yesterday or I'm gonna freak out!

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Doctors' responses

Dealing with a sudden, prominent pimple, especially before an important event, can be quite frustrating. While over-the-counter treatments like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid can help, they work gradually over a few days. For faster relief, you can apply a clean ice pack or wrapped ice cube to the pimple for short intervals, around 5-10 minutes a few times a day, to reduce swelling and redness. This won’t irritate your skin as long as you avoid applying the ice directly to the skin or leaving it on too long. It’s tempting to pop the pimple, but that can actually worsen the inflammation, cause it to scar or even lead to infections, so it’s best to resist that urge. Another potential remedy is applying a dab of over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream, which might also help to decrease inflammation, but ensure you use it sparingly and only for a short time to avoid potential skin thinning with prolonged use. Tea tree oil is yet another option with antiseptic properties, can be diluted and applied with a clean cotton swab. It’s important to patch test first to check for any adverse reaction. Making sure your hands and the area are clean before applying anything is crucial to avoid introducing more bacteria to the site. Since stress can contribute to breakouts, try incorporating some relaxation techniques into your routine like deep breathing or brief moments for mindfulness to help manage stress-related flare-ups. If the pimple doesn’t improve or if you experience a lot of breakouts, it might be useful to consult with a dermatologist for tailored advice or stronger prescriptions like topical antibiotics or retinoids. They can also recommend procedures such as a cortisone injection when when needed, which can reduce a pimple’s size rapidly, but that’s more of a professional intervention. Lastly, maintaining a good skincare routine without harsh or abrasive products should continue to keep future pimples at bay.

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