The scariest part about pimples is that they form in a jiffy. You may wake up with it or just feel it all of a sudden. They are like uninvited guests, who stick around for far longer than necessary. aargh The good news is that the moment you see a pimple coming, there are some things you can do to stop it in its tracks or reduce its impact. You have to act quickly as soon as you see a pimple forming, and not let it get too big. The sooner you act, the better it is! Stay calm and do this when you see a pimple coming!
01How to stop a pimple from Growing Before It Gets Worse?
Ice it!
Ice works wonders in reducing inflammation and redness, and icing a newly forming pimple halts its growth. All you need to do is wrap an ice cube in a soft cotton face cloth and hold it against the inflamed area for five minutes. Repeat this at least thrice a day. Avoid applying ice directly as that could cause burning.
Increase your water intake
You'll be surprised to know that an increase in your regular water intake can do wonders in reducing the impact of a pimple. Water has the power to flush out any excess salts in the body which may cause swelling or inflammation. Aim at drinking three liters per day and you'll notice how quickly your pimple has disappeared. And that's not all! Water can reduce redness and leave your skin looking supple and hydrated.
Use rubbing alcohol
If you notice that a pimple has made its way to the surface of your skin and has formed a head, then all you can do is reduce its lifespan. Take some rubbing alcohol and dab it gently onto the affected area and allow it to dry. While doing so, ensure you don't touch the surrounding skin as rubbing alcohol can irritate your skin. Apply it once every hour to dry up excess oil that won't contribute to the pimple.
Use rubbing alcohol
If you notice that a pimple has made its way to the surface of your skin and has formed a head, then all you can do is reduce its lifespan. Take some rubbing alcohol and dab it gently onto the affected area and allow it to dry. While doing so, ensure you don't touch the surrounding skin as rubbing alcohol can irritate your skin. Apply it once every hour to dry up excess oil that won't contribute to the pimple.
Clay mask as an overnight treatment
Waking up with a new pimple can be the most frustrating start to the morning. The best way to prevent pimples from forming overnight is to sleep with a clay mask on. You should not cover your entire face with the mask; simply apply it to the affected area and leave it on overnight. Doing so will help reduce inflammation and promote clearer skin. Incorporating face packs for pimples into your routine can be an effective way to tackle breakouts and maintain smooth, healthy skin.
Spot treat with tea tree oil
How to prevent upcoming pimple? Use tea tree oil, which is a natural antiseptic and anti-inflammatory. Mix a drop or two of tea tree oil with a carrier oil such as jojoba or coconut oil and apply it directly to the pimple with a cotton swab. Do this a few times a day. Tea tree oil will dry out the pimple and minimise redness at the same time.
Aspirin paste to the rescue
How to stop pimple from growing? Aspirin consists of salicylic acid, a primary ingredient in several pimple treatments. To make this home remedy, simply crush an aspirin tablet and combine it with a few drops of water to form a paste. Dab the paste to the breakout and let it sit for 10-15 minutes before washing it off. This paste will minimise inflammation and swelling.
Heal it with honey
Honey boasts natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Apply a small amount of raw honey onto the breakout and leave it on for 20-30 minutes before washing it off. Manuka honey is particularly celebrated for its healing abilities.
Hands off
This is important! Resist the urge to touch or pick at the breakout. Touching it can introduce bacteria, and worsen inflammation, which could lead to scarring. We know it's tempting, but don't touch it!
Gently cleanse
When you see a pimple coming, don't make the mistake of going overboard with harsh scrubs. Use a gentle face wash or cleanser and wash your face twice a day. Over-washing can irritate your complexion and make the acne worse. The Novology Acne Deep Clearing Cleanser is a great option.
Use a cool compress
If you don't have ice readily available, a cool compress will help you minimise inflammation and redness. Simply wet a clean cloth with cold water and hold it on the pimple for a few minutes at a time.
Use products with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide
If you have a skincare product consisting of these ingredients, now is the time to use them. Simply follow the instructions on the packaging.
Watch your diet
While diet affects everyone differently, it is known that for some individuals, dairy or high glycemic foods can exacerbate breakouts. Try to minimise your consumption of these types of food, especially when you feel a pimple forming.
02FAQs on How to Stop a Pimple From Growing
Below are are some FAQs answered on what to do when you see a pimple forming:
Q: I felt a tingle and now there's a red bump! Is it too late?
A: Absolutely not! That tingle is your signal to spring into action. The sooner you start treating it, the better your chances of minimising its impact. Ice it, spot treat, and don't panic. You've got this!
Q: I iced it, but it’s still red. What now?
A: Be patient! Icing minimises inflammation, but it will not immediately vanish the pimple. Continue icing it, and try a spot treatment like tea tree oil. It's important to remember that redness takes time to go away completely.
Q: My pimple has a whitehead! Should I pop it?
A: Definitely not! Resist the urge. Popping could result in scarring, infection, and even more inflammation. Instead, experts advise using a warm compress, followed by a spot treatment with rubbing alcohol or a benzoyl peroxide skincare product.
Q: I applied a clay mask overnight, but it’s still there! Is it a lost cause?
A: Not at all! Clay masks get rid of impurities and minimise inflammation, but not immediately. Continue using it, and add other treatments like icing and spot treatments. Patience is key.
Q: I’m stressed, and I think that’s why I’m breaking out. What can I do?
A: Take a deep breath! Stress hormones could definitely cause acne. Try some stress-reducing techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, or a relaxing bath. Additionally, make sure you are getting enough sleep and rest.
Q: I’m using all these treatments, but it’s still growing! What am I doing wrong?
A: Sometimes, acne just needs time. Be patient and regular with your treatments. If it continues to get worse or becomes painful, it's best to consult a dermatologist. They will help you with personalised treatments.
Q: How often should I wash my face?
A: Twice a day, morning and night, is typically enough. Over-washing will strip your skin of its natural oils and worsen the issue. Furthermore, always use a gentle cleanser and gently pat your skin dry with a clean towel or paper napkin.
Follow this expert-approved guide to prevent pimples from forming. However, if you have any underlying health issues or suffer from severe acne, it's advisable to consult a dermatologist or healthcare professional for personalised treatment. And remember, when you feel a pimple coming, whatever you do, don't panic!
