how to get rid of redness of pimples - #17552
I am dealing with this really frustrating issue where I just can't seem to figure out how to get rid of redness of pimples on my face. Like, I’ve tried a bunch of over-the-counter creams and even some home remedies, but nothing seems to work. A week ago, I had this massive breakout—super painful, and now the redness is just lingering long after the pimples are gone, which is so annoying! I’ve been using tea tree oil, which I heard can help, but it seems like all it does is dry out my skin and the redness is still there. I don't know if I should be exfoliating more often or maybe I need to change my whole skincare routine?? I tried looking up how to get rid of redness of pimples, even tried ice packs to reduce the inflammation, but seriously, is there something more effective? Also, can stress play a role in all this?? I've been stressing over work and that’s when the breakouts seemed to start. Any suggestions on how to get rid of redness of pimples will be super appreciated! I just want to feel comfortable in my skin again.
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Doctors' responses
Reducing the redness of pimples requires a mix of gentle skin care, topical treatments, and sometimes, lifestyle adjustments. Given that over-the-counter creams and home remedies haven’t worked, you might benefit from a few key strategies. First, don’t over-exfoliate as this can irritate the skin further. Instead, use a gentle cleanser with salicylic acid which helps unclog pores and can reduce redness over time. Tea tree oil may have drying properties that don’t suit everyone, especially if you notice your skin getting too dry, switch to a non-comedogenic moisturizer to maintain your skin’s hydration.
Consider using a low-dose benzoyl peroxide cream overnight; it kills bacteria and can reduce inflammation. Applying a hydrocortisone cream for a short duration may also help reduce redness, but it’s best not to use it long-term without medical advice. For immediate relief, reducing swelling and redness can be achieved by applying a cool compress or ice wrapped in a soft cloth for intervals of 5-10 minutes.
About stress, yes, it can indeed trigger acne as it may increase oil production in the skin. Practicing stress-reduction techniques like yoga, meditation, or regular exercise might help manage outbreaks. Keep track of whether certain foods or stress levels correlate with breakouts. If redness and breakouts persist, consult a dermatologist to explore options like prescription topical retinoids or in-office treatments. This ensures you’re addressing not just the redness but any underlying acne causes that might need more targeted interventions.
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