How to get rid of pimples fast is a question we’ve all had to ponder
Life seems to take a turn in the wrong direction whenever a pimple pops up. Let’s discuss how to get rid of pimples fast, so you can get back to living the dream! I’ll give you an overview on pimple types and then we’ll get down to business.
What is a Pimple
Pimple 101 – A pimple is a clogged oil gland that is filled with pus, blood, and bacteria. These are located in the epidermis which is the top part of the skin.
Whitehead – An eruption filled with pus and oil. There’s usually a white “head” on it which can be a bit oozy. Although unattractive, these are superficial and sit on the top layer of the skin.
Blackhead – These are usually found on the face, back and chest, and occasionally you’ll find one on your bum. They can be raised, but usually they’re flush to the skin. They look like a small black pin-sized dot. When you squeeze them, it looks as if a tiny black plug pops out and then a skinny strand of thick oil coils out.
Fun fact: These give Estheticians a thrill!
Cystic Acne – Usually a group of raised bumps, sometimes the size of a pea under the skin. These are usually painful to the touch as a result of the swelling and inflammation. These are filled with pus, blood, bacteria and oil, however they are located in the dermis layer of the skin which is deeper than the epidermis.
Milia – These look like tiny white pearls under a thin layer of skin. They form when sweat glands are obstructed with excess keratin (protein), dead skin, and a small amount of pus.
How to Get Rid of Pimples Fast
The basics: Dissolve. Squeeze. Ice.
Although skin is quite thin, it’s tough! As you may know, it’s not easy to get rid of pimples! So, you have to think like an Esthetician. We always start with either a liquid exfoliant, an enzyme with steam or both. This tactic helps to dissolve the top layer of skin, so that the skin becomes pliable and soft.
Liquid exfoliant, otherwise known as a tonic or toner, usually contains an acid like glycolic, salicylic or lactic. An enzyme powder or paste generally comes from fruits, such as papaya and pineapple. Both of these methods are used to prepare or “prep” the skin for extractions because they break down the surface layer. After the surface layer is removed, an Esthetician will gently apply pressure to release the contents and get rid of pimples fast. Then they follow up with a icy cold compress to avoid post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (dark spots).
If you’re trying to do this at home, just be sure to let the pimple open naturally. Do not squeeze or pick a pimple that is still closed as this can cause scarring. This is where a pimple patch can help! Keep reading to find out more.
Recently, pimple patches and stickers have come onto the market which are a great way to get rid of pimples fast at home. Although, there are certain blemishes that work best with pimple patches, while others require a liquid exfoliant.
How Pimple Patches Work
Made from cellulose and Hydrocolloid which is an absorbent material that helps to absorb oil and pus from skin. When applied directly to a pimple, the patch can essentially shrink the blemish overnight. These patches also work well for early-stage pimples, potentially preventing them from becoming a whitehead.
The Mighty Patch offers a little circular clear sponge which soak up oils, allowing your skin to breathe and heal quickly. The Mighty Patch folks suggest wearing them for 6 hours. You’ll be shocked with the amount of oil collected. The patch starts out clear and turns white as it absorbs the debris.
Due to the thickness, you probably wouldn’t want to wear makeup over them (nice try). However, since they look clear in color, they’re not anymore noticeable than a giant zit.
If you’re a “picker” these will block your ability to do so, saving you from more infection and a longer heal-time, not allowing you to get rid of pimples fast.
When to Go to a Pro to Get Rid of Pimples
For blackheads, specifically, going to an Esthetician to have them extracted is an easy solution. Cystic acne can be corrected by a knowledgeable Esthetician or Dermatologist. To reduce black heads and cystic acne, you may need to use a chemical exfoliant every day and sometimes twice a day. Acidic toners can help to unclog your pores and allow them to heal. Seeing a professional can be extremely helpful since they provide good advice and can come up with a treatment plan.
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