what to apply on pimple - #16125
I am really frustrated with this stubborn pimple that’s been hanging around on my face for like a week now. It all started out of nowhere; I just woke up one morning and boom! There it was, right on my cheek. I tried washing my face with my usual cleanser, but it just didn’t help. Now I’m just wondering what to apply on pimple to make it go away. I don’t want to squeeze it because I read that can make it worse, but it’s super red and starting to swell a bit and feels like it’s even getting bigger. I’ve used some over-the-counter spot treatments, but they don’t seem to work as fast as I’d like. Also, I heard a lot of people talking about tea tree oil or even some benzoyl peroxide stuff. Is that really effective? I want to be careful and not damage my skin or end up with a scar. Like, seriously, what to apply on pimple that won’t make it worse or cause my skin to break out more? I kinda feel like crying over this. I just want my face back to normal before the weekend! Any advice would be seriously appreciated!
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Doctors’ responses
To tackle that stubborn pimple, let’s first focus on evidence-backed treatments that can be effective and safe. It sounds like the redness and swelling you’re experiencing would benefit from applying a dab of topical benzoyl peroxide. This is available in various concentrations, usually 2.5% being recommended for sensitive skin areas like the face. Apply it once a day, after cleansing. You might find higher concentrations available, but they can lead to irritation without significantly improving efficacy. Remember to use a moisturizer after application to prevent drying out your skin, which can also exacerbate the redness. Another option is a product containing salicylic acid—this can help exfoliate the skin gently, clearing up clogged pores. For this, a 0.5% to 2% concentration is typical and it can be used up to twice a day. Make sure to use sunscreen during the day, as these treatments can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Tea tree oil is sometimes praised, for its antimicrobial properties, however, it can irritate some people’s skin, particularly at higher concentrations. If you try this route, use a product with a concentration of at most 5%, and do a patch test first. Nowabout the natural urge to pop or squeeze it—resist the temptation as it can worsen inflammation or create scars. If over-the-counter options aren’t providing relief or if you notice the condition worsening, it may be worthwhile consulting with a dermatologist. They can offer stronger treatments or investigate any underlying skin issues. Your skin’s needs can vary based on your lifestyle or the environment, so ensuring you’re using a non-comedogenic moisturizer and drinking enough water can support the skin’s barrier function. Keep your skincare routine simple and tailored to avoid overwhelming your skin. If a break-out seems persistent, tracking foods, stress levels, or other lifestyle factors may help identify contributors to flare-ups. This way, you’re tackling not just the symptom but also contemplating potential root causes.
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