The thing with pimples is that you never know when one’s going to pop up. Uncannily, they always appear just before a big family gathering or a party when you're all pumped up. Even the best-laid plans get sabotaged by pimples, leaving you with no choice but to layer up on concealer. Before we get into how to remove pimples fast, let’s talk about what causes them in the first place.
Reasons why we get pimples
Pimples can be caused by a lot of reasons. Some of the most common reasons are listed below.
Some medicines cause reactions that cause your skin to flare up.
Skincare and makeup products that are not right for your skin.
You don’t wash off sweat or take off your makeup at the end of the day.
Conditions like PCOS and PCOD.
Hormonal changes occurring during puberty or pregnancy.
Pimples may also be caused by a diet high in salt, sugar, and carbohydrates.
How to get rid of pimples overnight
So, it's the day before a big event that you've been looking forward to and you've got an angry red pimple. If you’re wondering how to remove pimples overnight, using these remedies can shrink the bump on your face in just a couple of hours or days. If the pimple does not go away completely, you can conceal with makeup. Do remember, for every home remedy, it’s always advisable to do a patch test.
1. Aloe vera
Aloe vera has long been used to treat skin disorders due to its healing and antimicrobial properties. These characteristics can speed the healing process and prevent further breakouts.
To use: Apply aloe vera gel directly on the pimple. It can be left overnight and then washed off the following morning.
2. Garlic
Allicin, an antimicrobial compound found in garlic has antibacterial properties. As a result, the infection around pimples may be reduced and frequent breakouts may be avoided. However, too much garlic can cause skin irritation, so use with caution.
To use: Blend a few garlic cloves together in a mixer and strain with a fine muslin cloth. Apply this on the affected area with a cotton ball. Let it sit for about 20 minutes before washing it off. You can do this twice daily.
3. Argan oil
There are several bioactive compounds found in argan oil, which possess antimicrobial properties. The best cream to remove pimples fast is one that has argan oil in it, as this helps to reduce sebum production.
To use: Combine a few drops of argan oil with any carrier oil. Use a sterile cotton ball to apply them to the pimple. Do this every night till the affected area heals.
4. Tea tree oil
If you’re wondering how to get rid of pimples fast, tea tree oil is amongst the best options. Tea tree oil is rich in antimicrobial properties. As a result, pimples, zits, and inflamed lesions are less likely to appear on your skin. Application might cause a tingling sensation, so try it on a small area first.
To use: Add a few drops of tea tree oil to a carrier oil (such as jojoba or sweet almond oil). Apply the mixture to the pimples. Rinse it off after one hour. Do this every day until the redness and inflammation subsides.
5. Jojoba oil
The anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties of jojoba oil are well-recognised. These properties heal pimples and also prevent scars from acne from reoccurring.
To use: Add 3-4 drops of jojoba oil to any carrier oil. Apply this mixture on the pimple with a cotton ball. Repeat it 3-4 times a day.
6. Coconut oil
Coconut oil is known for its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties that help subside inflammation and pain. Coconut oil is largely composed of lauric acid, which possesses antimicrobial properties. This helps in reducing the infection around the pimple.
To use: Take a drop of virgin coconut oil and apply it directly on your pimple. Leave it on for a few hours and wash off. However, with coconut of any other oil, ensure that you do a patch test first.
7. Turmeric
Turmeric is rich in curcumin, which has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. These properties help to reduce inflammation, redness and prevent acne from reoccurring.
To use: Take a teaspoon of turmeric and add water to it to make a thick paste. Apply the paste onto the affected area. Rinse off once the paste dries and repeat twice daily.
8. Green tea
The polyphenols present in green tea can help regulate the secretion of sebum in the skin. This helps reduce outbreaks. Furthermore, green tea is also anti-inflammatory, which may help in reducing swelling in the affected area as well.
To use: Take two green tea bags and remove the leaves. Mix them with some aloe vera gel after they are moistened with warm water. Apply this on your face as a mask. Wash off after 15 minutes. Do this twice a week.
How to prevent pimples
1. Keep your face clean
Dirt and grime can accumulate on your face throughout the day, clogging pores and causing pimples. By washing your face well, you can prevent the pores from becoming clogged.
2. Don't forget to stay hydrated
Your skin will be replenished and your pores won't remain clogged with excessive sebum production.
3. Do not pop pimples
Touching or popping pimples can cause further breakouts and spread the infection.
4. Change your lifestyle
Limit your intake of processed foods and dairy products as these are linked to acne. Exercising regularly can rejuvenate your skin. Make sure you get enough sleep as well.
5. Avoid using makeup too often
If you have acne-prone skin, you should avoid using makeup too often. If you don’t cleanse the makeup properly, it can clog pores and aggravate the issue.
FAQs
Can lemon remove pimples?
Ascorbic acid or vitamin C, a key component of lemon essential oil, exhibits antibacterial properties. It may prevent future breakouts by fighting the bacteria that causes pimples. Combine a teaspoon of lemon juice with honey and mix well. Apply this mixture to the affected area with a cotton ball. Let it sit for 5-6 minutes, and then rinse. This can be done once or twice a day.
Is honey good for pimples?
Honey is antibacterial. Therefore, it may be effective in reducing pimples. Apply honey to the pimple with a cotton ball. Repeat for a couple of days till the pimple is gone.
Having pimples is quite common. These natural remedies might not work for everyone, but they are worth trying. As a thumb rule, always do a patch test. If the concern still doesn’t subside, it’s best to consult your dermatologist.
Privacy Notice
Written by Kinnari Ashar on 1st Jun 2022