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Everyone gets pimples and zits that can cause irritation and redness. The redness of a pimple is an inflammatory response, not a scar. Inflammation actually helps our tissues regenerate and is a normal part of our body's healing response, but it can be annoying when that inflammation is plastered over our face for the whole world to see. Luckily, there are home methods that can decrease or hide the inflammatory redness until your pimple heals.
Steps
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Ice the pimple to relieve inflammation. Wrap a few ice cubes in a thin, clean cloth and apply directly to the zit. Hold the ice pack in place for 5-10 minutes at a time, repeating throughout the day as necessary. Allow your skin to rest for at least 2 hours before repeating the icing process, though, to avoid any potential damage. [1] X Research source
- Make sure not to put too much pressure on your skin. Too much pressure can cause the pimple to break, causing even more redness and spreading bacteria.
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Put a cucumber on the pimple. Cucumbers are naturally cooling, and they have mild astringent properties that may help minimize swelling and redness. Cut off a thin slice of cucumber and put it over your pimple for 5-10 minutes.
- To get the best effect, use a cucumber straight out of the refrigerator. A cold cucumber is going to deal with inflammation better than a warm cucumber.
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Make an aspirin mask to reduce redness. Mix together 4-5 crushed uncoated aspirin with a little water to form a paste. Apply to the inflamed area gently with a cotton swab and rinse off once dry. [2] X Research source
- Do not try an aspirin mask if you have an allergy to the medication, if you are taking potentially interactive medication, or if you have a health condition that also prevents you from ingesting aspirin.
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Try a yogurt and honey mask to soothe inflammation. Mix together equal parts plain, full-fat yogurt and honey. Apply a thin layer of the mask to any inflamed areas on your face. Let the mask sit for 10-15 minutes before washing it off with warm water. [3] X Research source
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Apply a hot washcloth or a warm compress to the zit. While ice can temporarily reduce redness, a warm compress works to reduce long-lasting inflammation. It can also open up your pores, allowing the sebum and bacteria to exit through the head of the zit. Hold a warm compress over the pimple for 10-15 minutes at a time. Reapply the compress up to 4 times throughout the day to help clear your pimple. [4] X Research source
- To make your own warm compress, soak a washcloth in water that is hot, but not too hot to touch. If you just steeped some tea, you could even use the teabag.
- Follow your warm compress with a gentle face wash. Washing your face will help remove some of the oil and bacteria that was drawn out by the warm compress.
- You can also add a few drops of tea tree oil or lavender oil to the compress to help reduce inflammation.
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Apply a green concealer to quickly mask the redness. If you’re in a rush to reduce the redness around a pimple, apply a small amount of a green concealer directly to the zit. Blend it out with a clean makeup sponge or brush, and set it with a very thin layer of translucent powder. The green will neutralize the red discoloration. [5] X Research source
- Green concealer won’t perfectly match most skin tones. You will need to apply a bit of foundation or concealer that matches your skin tone over the green.
- Concealer can cover the redness of a pimple, but it will not be able to mask any bumps or rises in the skin due to a zit. Some concealers, though, have salicylic acid in them to help gradually combat acne.
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Hide the pimple with clothing or accessories. While clothes and accessories don't actually get rid of the redness, they do make it less visible. If the pimple is on your body, cover it with a piece of clothing. If it is on your face, try using an accessory like sunglasses to hide it.
- If you have long hair, you may also try to style that in a way that covers up your zit.
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Apply a spot treatment that has salicylic acid. You can find over-the-counter spot treatments with salicylic acid at most pharmacies and drug stores. Apply the spot treatment directly to your pimple. The acid will start to dry up the oils and sebum in the area, reducing some of the zit's overall redness. [6] X Research source
- Spot treatments will take several hours to several days to completely heal the pimple, but they can start to reduce redness quickly.
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Dab on an acne cream that contains benzoyl peroxide. Benzoyl peroxide kills the bacteria in pimples. Since the bacteria also cause the redness, these creams help reduce the redness, as well. [7] X Research source
- Read the acne cream packaging to look for one that contains benzoyl peroxide.
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Use eye drops as a spot treatment. Eye drops that contain tetrahydrozoline hydrochloride are formulated to help get rid of redness. That same ingredient can help reduce some of the redness commonly associated with acne. Apply a few drops to a cotton swab and dab that on your pimple to get the most targeted treatment.
- Alternately, freeze a cotton swab that's been soaked in eye drop solution overnight. Apply it gently to the pimple. The cold will suppress the inflammation.
- Eye drops won’t help treat the pimple itself. They will just reduce some of the redness for a little while.
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Use an over-the-counter redness reduction product. Many drug stores and pharmacies carry redness relief creams and other topical treatments. These can target mild to moderate redness and reduce discoloration in as little as 12 hours. You may want to ask a pharmacist which product is right for you, especially if you have sensitive skin or are using any other topical treatments. [8] X Research source
- Common products used to combat redness include Rhofade and Eucerin Redness Relief Soothing Night Cream.
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Try hydrocortisone cream for a temporary reduction in redness. Although hydrocortisone cream is typically used for itching, it can also help reduce redness. Dab a small amount of the cream directly onto your pimple.
- You can buy 1% hydrocortisone cream over-the-counter at most drug stores. [9] X Research source
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Use a clay mask to dry up zits. Combine 2-3 tablespoons of powdered clay with enough water to form a spreadable paste. Apply a thin layer of the mask to your face and let it dry fully before rinsing it off with warm water. Add a few drops of tea tree oil to the paste before application to amp up its acne-fighting powers. [10] X Research source
- You can get powdered clay from most pharmacies, drug stores, and health food stores, as well as online.
- Alternatively, you could use a pre-mixed clay mask, which you can find in the bath section of your local department store or in a beauty supply or drug store.
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See a dermatologist if you get repeated breakouts. You could get breakouts for reasons ranging from internal hormones to external environmental factors. If you’re struggling to control those factors on your own, talk to a dermatologist. They can help you develop a holistic acne treatment plan that may include diet and lifestyle changes, a new or enhanced skincare routine, and/or acne medication. [11] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Dermatology Professional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists Go to source According to dermatologist Margareth Pierre-Louis, you could even talk to your dermatologist about prescribing a stronger medication, like retinoic acids. [12] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source
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Wash your face daily with a quality face wash. According to dermatologist Margareth Pierre-Louis, daily washing prevents your skin from developing a mild yeast infection. It also helps remove the dead skin, sebum, and bacteria that promotes acne. [13] X Expert Source Margareth Pierre-Louis, MD
Board Certified Dermatologist Expert Interview. 15 May 2020. Look for a face wash that is formulated for acne-prone skin. Your dermatologist or doctor can help you with recommendations for the right wash for you. [14] X Research source- Aim to wash your face 1-2 times a day. If you wear makeup, one of those times should be at the end of the day to remove your makeup. Try not to wash too much, since overwashing can actually encourage acne.
- Don't scrub too hard or use a rough-surfaced implement like a loofah or washcloth to wash your face. Your hands or a face brush will work great. When drying your face, gently pat dry with a towel.
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Use a toner after cleansing. Apply the toner to a cotton pad, then wipe it over your face. The toner will remove any excess dirt or makeup that remains on your skin and balance your skin's pH. Toner also tightens your pores.
- You can find toner at a drug store or beauty supply store.
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Moisturize your face daily. Dermatologist Margareth Pierre-Louis agrees that moisturizer is a great way to hydrate and replenish your skin. [15] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U.S. National Institutes of Health Go to source After washing your face, you should apply a moisturizing cream, gel, or lotion. This helps replenish the natural moisture that was stripped away when you washed your face. Even if you have oily or acne-prone skin, a moisturizer can help reduce the amount of oil and sebum your face produces, and reduce your breakouts. [16] X Research source
- There’s no shortage of different moisturizers on the market, so finding the one for you might take a little experimenting. Look for a moisturizer that is formulated for your skin type (oily, combination, etc.) to get the best results.
- If you have acne-prone skin, look for a non-comedogenic moisturizer. It will be specifically formulated to ensure it doesn’t block your pores.
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Keep your skin hydrated. A moisturizer will help keep your skin hydrated, but there’s more you can do. Some of the most effective steps are preventative care, including limiting your exposure to cold or dry air, avoiding extended contact with hot or chlorinated water, and avoiding skin care products that contain alcohol. You should also make sure you are getting plenty of water inside and outside.
- Many doctors recommend drinking at least 3 liters (13 cups) of water per day for men, and 2.2 liters (9 cups) of water per day for women. [17] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source
- Use facial mists throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated from the outside. If you are in a consistently dry area, you may even want to use a humidifier to keep your skin happy.
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Ensure that your body is getting proper vitamins. While research is still ongoing, some studies suggest that certain vitamins can help fight against inflammation and encourage healthier skin. [18] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U.S. National Institutes of Health Go to source Common vitamins that are said to promote healthy skin include:
- Vitamin A . Vitamin A is an antioxidant, meaning it helps limit damaging molecules called free radicals. These can harm skin cells and hasten signs of aging. Foods rich in vitamin A include carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, squash, apricots, and cantaloupe. [19] X Research source
- Vitamin C . Vitamin C is instrumental in producing collagen, the building block of skin. Studies also suggest that it has some anti-inflammatory benefits. Foods rich in vitamin C include guava, citrus fruits, kale, broccoli, kiwi, and strawberries. [20] X Trustworthy Source Oregon State University Linus Pauling Institute Research center dedicated to promoting optimal health through cutting-edge nutrition research and public outreach Go to source
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Exfoliate every week. According to dermatologist Margareth Pierre-Louis, exfoliating involves removing your epidermis, or the outermost layer of your skin. [21] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Dermatology Professional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists Go to source Exfoliating 1-2 times a week removes the dead cells that end up in zits, and helps promote cellular turnover to keep your skin bright and healthy. [22] X Research source
- You should exfoliate after you cleanse your skin but before you apply toner.
- Both mechanical exfoliants, such as facial scrubs, and chemical exfoliants, such as enzyme wipes, are widely available. If you have acne-prone, sensitive, or aging skin, though, you should opt for a chemical exfoliant since scrubs could irritate and even damage your skin.
- If you have oily or acne-prone skin, you may want to exfoliate as often as 2-3 times per week.
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Expert Q&A
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QuestionHow do I get rid of redness on my face?Laura Martin is a Licensed Cosmetologist based in Milledgeville, Georgia. She has been working as a hair stylist since 2007, and began a career as a cosmetology teacher in 2013. She worked as a teacher at Arrojo Cosmetology School, teaching cosmetology practices, hairstyling, and hair color application. She also brought her cosmetology expertise to her work as a staff writer for fashion blog Style Noted, writing pieces related to hair and fashion. She received an MFA in Creative Writing from Georgia College & State University, where she was also an English Teaching Fellow. Additionally, she received a BA in Creative Writing and Literature from New York University.If your face gets red frequently you may have a condition like rosacea and should see a dermatologist. For infrequent redness, use soothing, cooling ingredients such as aloe or cucumbers.
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QuestionWhat should I do if my pimple is bleeding?Laura Martin is a Licensed Cosmetologist based in Milledgeville, Georgia. She has been working as a hair stylist since 2007, and began a career as a cosmetology teacher in 2013. She worked as a teacher at Arrojo Cosmetology School, teaching cosmetology practices, hairstyling, and hair color application. She also brought her cosmetology expertise to her work as a staff writer for fashion blog Style Noted, writing pieces related to hair and fashion. She received an MFA in Creative Writing from Georgia College & State University, where she was also an English Teaching Fellow. Additionally, she received a BA in Creative Writing and Literature from New York University.Treat a bleeding pimple like an open wound, clean it with hydrogen peroxide or rubbing alcohol keep it clean and dry.
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QuestionDo certain foods cause pimples?Dr. Margareth Pierre-Louis is a board certified Dermatologist and Dermatopathologist, Physician Entrepreneur, and the Founder of Twin Cities Dermatology Center and Equation Skin Care in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Twin Cities Dermatology Center is a comprehensive dermatology clinic treating patients of all ages through clinical dermatology, cosmetic dermatology, and telemedicine. Equation Skin Care was created to provide the best in evidence-based, natural skin care products. Dr. Pierre-Louis earned a BS in Biology and an MBA from Duke University, an MD from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, completed a residency in dermatology at the University of Minnesota, and completed a dermatopathology fellowship at Washington University in St Louis. Dr. Pierre-Louis is board certified in dermatology, cutaneous surgery, and dermatopathology by the American Boards of Dermatology and Pathology.Studies show that dairy can aggravate the skin. Acne is a problem with inflamed oil glands, and it is possible for the fat from milk and cheese, for example, to further inflame the oil gland. Though they are aggravators, they do not necessarily cause acne.
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Tips
- Avoid popping pimples if possible.Thanks
- Dermatologists don’t recommend using toothpaste to dry up pimples. This old home remedy may actually irritate your skin and make things worse.Thanks
- Additionally, while lemon juice is a common home remedy for pimples, it can burn the skin, promote scarring and discoloration, and increase the skin's sensitivity to the sun.Thanks
Tips from our Readers
The advice in this section is based on the lived experiences of wikiHow readers like you. If you have a helpful tip you’d like to share on wikiHow, please submit it in the field below.
- Get 2 soaps, one that is a foaming face wash and one that is a scrub. Use the foaming soap one day then the scrub the next. Alternating the foam and the scrub will keep your face from getting used to one type of soap which will keep the pimples off your face (plus, scrubbing a few times a week will exfoliate your skin and make it smoother).
- Dehydrated skin makes your face dry, which triggers your oil glands to overproduce oil, which can clog your pores and cause breakouts. So, moisturize your face regularly to keep a good oil balance and reduce blemishes.
- Don't touch your pimples or zits, since touching or picking at them can make them more irritated and red. Keep yourself busy to take your mind off them and make sure to get your beauty sleep!
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Warnings
- Popping pimples may result in scarring. It can also spread any dirt, oils, and bacteria trapped in the pimple, which may encourage new zits.Thanks
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References
- ↑ https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320250.php
- ↑ https://www.skincareorg.com/aspirin-face-mask/aspirin-face-mask/
- ↑ http://everydayroots.com/acne-remedies
- ↑ https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320250.php
- ↑ https://www.allure.com/story/cover-every-pimple
- ↑ https://intothegloss.com/2014/10/benzoyl-peroxide-vs-salicylic-acid/
- ↑ https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/acne/understanding-acne-treatment#1
- ↑ https://www.allure.com/story/rhofade-fda-approved-rosacea-redness-treatment
- ↑ https://www.drugs.com/cdi/hydrocortisone-cream-gel-ointment-and-solution.html
- ↑ https://www.healthyandnaturalworld.com/homemade-face-masks-for-acne/
- ↑ https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/acne-and-rosacea/how-to-treat-different-types-of-acne/treating-acne
- ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/acne/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20368048
- ↑ Margareth Pierre-Louis, MD. Board Certified Dermatologist. Expert Interview. 15 May 2020.
- ↑ https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/prevent-acne.html
- ↑ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22913439/
- ↑ https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/prevent-acne.html
- ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/water/art-20044256
- ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2836431/
- ↑ http://www.healthaliciousness.com/articles/food-sources-of-vitamin-A.php
- ↑ http://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/health-disease/skin-health/vitamin-C
- ↑ https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-secrets/routine/safely-exfoliate-at-home
- ↑ https://www.self.com/story/chemical-exfoliants
About This Article
Article Summary
X
To quickly reduce the redness of a pimple, apply a spot treatment containing salicylic acid to the blemish. You can also wrap a few ice cubes in a thin, clean cloth and hold it on the pimple for 5-10 minutes to reduce redness, but you should only do this once every 2 hours to avoid damaging your skin. Other remedies including placing cucumbers over the pimple or applying a paste from 4-5 crushed uncoated aspirin and a little water, then rinsing off the paste once it’s dry. To learn more about medicated treatment options from our Cosmetologist co-author, keep reading!
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Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 4,612,607 times.
Reader Success Stories
- "Now that I've read all these cures and tricks, I can now properly take care of my pimples. Relieving pain and redness with Visine is a great idea. Thank you for all the helpful info. I have screen shot all the info to always have this to use in the future." ..." more
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"Now that I've read all these cures and tricks, I can now properly take care of my pimples. Relieving pain and redness with Visine is a great idea. Thank you for all the helpful info. I have screen shot all the info to always have this to use in the future."
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"Lemon juice really works! My prom was 3 days away and two massive pimples appeared but the lemon juice reduced the size and redness of the pimple. I also used baking powder which also worked."
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