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Skin & Hair Concerns
Question #18422
70 days ago
117

pimple remove - #18422

Rudra

I am really stressed because I’ve been dealing with this annoying pimple for like a week now, and I don’t know how to remove it effectively. First, it started small, but then it somehow swelled up overnight, and it’s super red and painful! I've tried some over-the-counter creams but honestly, nothing seems to work. My friend said a warm compress might help, but I think it just made it look worse. I even thought about popping it (ew, I know), but I remember reading about how that can cause scars and I really don't want to deal with that. Do you guys have any recommendations on how to safely pimple remove without making things worse? I got an event coming up and I just want it gone! I wonder if I should be using certain face washes or if applying ice would help at all. I’m feeling frustrated, honestly. Like I’ve tried so many things already! Has anyone else had success with how to pimple remove without a huge hassle? Any advice would be really appreciated!

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Doctors' responses

When a pimple is red, swollen, and painful like you described, it’s likely inflamed, possibly due to bacteria and oil trapped under your skin. While it’s tempting to pop it, you’re right—popping can lead to scarring or even more infection. Let’s focus on reducing that inflammation and clearing it safely. First, stick with gentle face washing using a mild cleanser twice daily, morning and evening, to avoid irritating the skin further. Avoid scrubbing; just use lukewarm water and pat dry. Over-the-counter creams with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid are generally helpful, as they reduce oil and fight bacteria, but since discomfort or irritation can occur, apply only a thin layer once a day. You mentioned warm compresses, which typically help reduce swelling, but if it aggravated the redness, you might benefit from the alternate approach of a cold compress or ice wrapped in a clean cloth. Apply it to the pimple for ten minutes at a time, a few times a day, to numb pain and reduce swelling. Spot treatments with tea tree oil, which has antimicrobial properties, could also be an option—just dilute it with a carrier oil to avoid skin irritation. Hydration is key, so make sure you’re moisturizing with a non-comedogenic (non-clogging) moisturizer after treatments. A topical antibiotic cream from a pharmacy might help if you suspect it’s particularly infected but use it sparingly. You’ve got an event coming up, so if these methods don’t lead to improvement in a day or two or if it worsens, consider seeing a dermatologist for a cortisone injection, which can rapidly reduce large, painful pimples—just watch for potential side effects. Pay attention to your diet and stress levels; sometimes hormonal or stress-related changes can exacerbate acne. Keep hands away from your face throughout the day to minimize any added bacteria. With these steps focused on reducing inflammation and promoting healing, aiming for healthier skin before your event is definitely within reach.

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