Reduce Swelling of a Pimple

It’s unsightly and sometimes painful when a pimple swells and reddens but, contrary to popular opinion, “popping” it will only make it worse. By now, you have a basic understanding of what causes acne and you know that you develop pimples because your pores are infected. Breaking the skin to let the pus out may provide some temporary relief but it also spreads bacteria to other areas of your face and can cause additional breakouts. The area may also linger as a scar because the skin was broken. By damaging the area you can cause the skin to scar, leaving a lasting reminder instead of merely a bad memory and a few odd photos.

Applying an ice pack will almost immediately reduce swelling. Be sure to place a cloth between your skin and the ice pack, as direct contact with ice can damage the skin. By icing the area down for a couple of minutes at a time the swelling can be significantly reduced and swelling is usually unnoticeable after 30-60 minutes of intermittent treatments.

Ointments containing Benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid will dry up the pus inside the blemish quickly and it will heal sooner. Swelling and redness go away quickly once these are applied. If nothing else is available and you need to alleviate the swelling quickly, toothpaste is a short-term remedy that will reduce redness. If it obliges you by waiting until bedtime to flare up, gently rub apple cider vinegar on the site and leave it overnight. Chances are you’ll awaken with very little, if any, swelling. Apple cider vinegar is a natural astringent and its medicinal properties are especially beneficial to acne.

You may want to keep some Tea Tree Oil on hand or some sandalwood paste. Both are very effective at reducing swelling and improving the general health of your skin. The sandalwood paste can be used as a facemask overnight or a couple of hours during the day and you’ll notice a significant improvement once it’s rinsed off.