Skincare tip: How to treat a pimple quickly before an important occasion

Pimples are bothersome last-minute additions that may ruin your big day – whether it’s a wedding, a festival, or anything else you’ve been looking forward to. Many times, a frightening-looking pimple will erupt just before you have to make an appearance.

According to a consultant dermatologist, a pimple erupting suddenly can be caused by hormonal changes (especially around your period), excessive stress, a side-effect of a crash diet, not properly washing off your makeup, dehydration, lack of sleep, excessive use of skincare actives, a side-effect of certain medicines such as steroids or hormonal pills, or an excessive intake of deep fried, oily foods.

Read on to learn about some successful ways to treat them.

1. Salicylic acid:

Salicylic acid is available over-the-counter as a gel, lotion, or serum in any topical form. It works by unclogging pores, shedding dead skin cells from the top layer of the skin, and speeding up pimple recovery. It may also aid in the reduction of the production of other pimples in the area where it is used. Salicylic acid, on the other hand, might dry up the skin, so be sure to use a moisturiser afterward.

2. Pimple patches:

Pimple patches are made of a substance called hydrocolloid, which absorbs the pus. Anti-acne compounds like salicylic acid and tea tree oil, as well as calming substances like centella, may be included. We have a tendency to touch pimples as they appear. This can lead to increased irritation and inflammation, as well as the spread of bacteria to other parts of the body. There will be no bacterial transfer with a pimple patch, and even friction with a mask on will be reduced.

3. Benzoyl peroxide:

Benzoyl peroxide is available in creams, gels, cleansers, and spot treatments for use on the skin. If you have pus-filled acne, benzoyl peroxide can help. It is antimicrobial, which means it helps to reduce the germs that cause acne on the face.

It also helps to cleanse your pores and lessen the size of your acne. However, take in mind that benzoyl peroxide can cause dryness and peeling, as well as bleaching of any cloth it comes into touch with if used too much.

4. IntraLesional Steroid (given under the guidance of a dermatologist):

ILS is an injection in which the dermatologist injects a little amount of triamcinolone acetate, a steroid, into the pimple. It produces effects in 48 hours and leaves no discoloration or scarring.

“These, however, are only temporary solutions. If you have recurring acne, visit a dermatologist who can understand your medical history and provide an effective, personalised and permanent solution to manage and treat your breakouts ,” expert says.