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Even if you’ve done your best to prevent acne, breakouts can still occur. Thankfully, there are several ways to tackle acne effectively. The easiest option is to apply topical treatments containing glycolic acid or benzoyl peroxide. For those who prefer natural remedies, tea tree oil or ice packs can be great alternatives. Test each method individually and give your skin a 24-hour break (or longer) before trying a new approach.
Steps
Quick Acne Treatment
Apply hydrocortisone cream. Hydrocortisone cream is a nearly as effective alternative to cortisone injections. Usage instructions vary depending on the product, but generally, you can apply it directly to the pimple up to twice daily.
- Overuse of hydrocortisone cream can thin the skin and worsen breakouts. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines to avoid overapplication.
Extract pimples using a comedone extractor (a small loop-shaped tool) to clear clogged pores. Disinfect the pimple and surrounding area with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. Place the round end of the extractor over the pimple and gently roll it across the skin with steady, firm pressure.
- Only attempt to extract a pimple if it has a visible black or white/yellow head. Squeezing pimples without a head can be painful and may cause scarring.
- Avoid extracting pimples whenever possible, as it can lead to scarring or more breakouts.
Use a blue light acne treatment device. Blue light has been clinically proven to heal the skin and treat acne. Apply the device to the pimple for 6-20 minutes, depending on the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Specific instructions vary by device, so read the manual carefully before use.
- Blue light acne devices typically cost between 800,000 VND to million VND.
- Blue light devices are generally not recommended for individuals with rosacea or other skin conditions.
Treating Acne with Topical Medications
Use acid-based solutions. Salicylic acid or glycolic acid is highly effective in treating acne. These acid-based products come in creams or lotions. Specific instructions vary by product, but generally, you can dab a small amount onto the pimple and gently massage it in circular motions.
- There are also salicylic acid or glycolic acid wipes available. Simply take a wipe, gently rub it over the affected area, and discard it.
- You can also use a salicylic acid face wash to help prevent future breakouts.
- Once the acne clears, consider using a lactic acid product daily to prevent recurring breakouts.
Apply benzoyl peroxide-based acne treatments. Application methods vary depending on the product. Always read the manufacturer’s instructions before using benzoyl peroxide treatments. Typically, you can apply the gel, cream, or lotion 1-2 times daily until the pimple disappears.
- Benzoyl peroxide treatments work by killing acne-causing bacteria.
- Benzoyl peroxide can bleach fabrics. To avoid staining clothes, apply it before bed and wear an old T-shirt.
Exfoliate your skin after cleansing. Exfoliating products are formulated to remove dead skin cells from the surface. Instructions vary by product, but generally, you can pour a small amount onto a cotton pad and apply it to the acne-prone area.
- You can cleanse your face with a moisturizing cleanser, gentle soap and water, or simply rinse with water.
Use sulfur-based acne treatments. Sulfur has a high pH level, which can help balance the skin and treat acne. Gels, soaps, and creams containing sulfur have different application methods depending on the product. Typically, you should cleanse the affected area and apply a small amount of sulfur product to the pimple.
Using Home Remedies
Try an aspirin mask. One of aspirin’s primary uses is to reduce inflammation and swelling, making it effective for treating acne. Crush 5-7 uncoated aspirin tablets and mix with 2-3 tablespoons of water. Apply the mixture to the pimple for 10-15 minutes.
- For added antibacterial and moisturizing benefits, you can mix in a teaspoon of honey, tea tree oil, jojoba oil, or olive oil.
- Children and teenagers are at risk of Reye’s syndrome, so consult a doctor before using this remedy on younger individuals.
Apply ice to the pimple. Like aspirin, ice is commonly used to reduce swelling and redness caused by skin irritation. Cleanse your face with a gentle cleanser, rinse with warm water, and pat dry. Wrap an ice cube or ice pack in a cloth and apply it to the pimple for 5 minutes, then remove for 5 minutes. Repeat this cycle for 20-30 minutes.
- Repeat this process three times a day.
- This method helps tighten and shrink pores.
- Ice therapy also reduces the size and redness of pimples, helping your skin return to near-normal appearance.
- This method is also helpful if the pimple is painful.
Use a 5% tea tree oil solution to treat acne. Dip a cotton swab into the solution and gently dab it onto the pimple and surrounding area. Apply once daily until the acne clears.
- If 5% tea tree oil is unavailable, you can dilute concentrated tea tree oil with water to create a 5% solution (95% water). Add more water if you have sensitive skin.
- Shake the solution before use.
- You can substitute tea tree oil with neem oil.
- Overuse or high concentrations of tea tree oil can irritate the skin. Consult a doctor for safe usage guidelines.
Apply a warm compress or steam to bring pimples to the surface. A long, hot shower can open pores and speed up the healing process. Similarly, a warm compress on the affected area can help. Once the pimple has surfaced, you can use a comedone extractor to remove it. Alternatively, apply topical treatments containing salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or glycolic acid.
Tips
- Keep pillowcases clean. Wash them every 4-5 days to remove oil and bacteria that cause breakouts.
- After extracting a pimple, disinfect the area with alcohol or tea tree oil to prevent bacterial spread.
- Consult a dermatologist if acne persists.
- Shower immediately after sweating to prevent dirt and bacteria buildup.
- Drink plenty of water, get enough sleep, and follow a low-sugar diet to maintain chemical balance and naturally cleanse your skin.
- Exfoliate weekly with a mixture of baking soda, lemon, and honey. Mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda, 3 tablespoons of honey, and 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of lemon juice in a small bowl. Apply to the affected area, gently massage, and rinse with warm water.
- Keep your skin clean. Throughout the day, pollutants, sweat, and dirt accumulate on your skin, worsening acne. Wash your face twice daily and carry a towel to wipe away oil, sweat, or dirt.
- Always remove makeup before bed. Cosmetics attract dirt and bacteria.
- Choose makeup carefully if you want to cover acne. Opt for hypoallergenic, oil-free, non-comedogenic, or medicated products to reduce breakouts and improve treatment.
- Avoid using toothpaste. While some believe it helps with acne, toothpaste can dry out the skin and increase the risk of breakouts.
- Lemon juice can irritate the skin, so avoid applying it directly to pimples. Use lemon-based products only on healed skin.
- Don’t try multiple methods at once. Using too many treatments simultaneously or too close together can irritate the skin. Stick to one method and wait at least 24 hours before trying another. For stronger treatments like glycolic acid peels, wait several days or weeks.
