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Skin & Hair Concerns
Question #17929
74 days ago
120

small pimple on face - #17929

Nisha

I am super stressed about this small pimple on my face that just popped up outta nowhere! Like, last week everything was fine, then suddenly I wake up one morning and there it is, just chilling on my cheek. I’ve never really had issues with acne before, maybe a small pimple here and there during my teenage years, but this feels different. It’s not just any small pimple on my face, it’s kinda red and inflamed, and keeping me from feeling my best for a party coming up. I’ve tried using some over-the-counter creams that always worked before, but this time, the small pimple on my face just doesn’t seem to go away! Is it possible it’s an allergic reaction, or something worse like an infection? I'm worried it might leave a scar or something if I keep messing with it. Do I need to see a dermatologist, or can I treat this small pimple on my face at home? What do you guys think? What has worked for you when you've had a small pimple on your face? Any advice is welcome!

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Doctors' responses

When dealing with a sudden pimple that seems different from your previous experiences, there are a few things to consider to help you manage it effectively. A single inflamed pimple can occur for various reasons—ranging from hormonal changes, stress, or even an onset of a mild infection. The good news is that most isolated pimples can be managed at home without needing to rush to a dermatologist immediately, unless it persists or worsens. It’s unlikely to be an allergic reaction, but if you suspect a topical product or something new you’ve introduced recently, it might be worth discontinuing its use to see if the situation improves.

For home treatment, continue with your OTC acne cream, but ensure you’re not overdoing it as excess can irritate your skin further. Look for products containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid as they are quite effective in reducing redness and inflammation. Apply it once or twice daily, ideally after washing your face with a gentle cleanser, to minimize irritation. Resist the temptation to pick at it, as this can increase the risk of scarring. Applying a warm compress a few times a day can support the healing process; just ensure the compress is clean to avoid introducing bacteria.

If the pimple is painful, doesn’t start improving in a week, or if you start seeing more lesions develop, it’s wise to consult with a dermatologist. They can examine the lesion to rule out any conditions like cystic acne or a deeper infection that might need prescription treatment. It’s understandable to be concerned about appearance before an event, but give these steps some time to work. With mild changes and patience, it often settles back to normal. Having a consistent, gentle skincare routine tailored to your skin type can also prevent future occurrences.

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