An overproduction of sebum, or oil, causes acne by blocking hair follicles and supporting a build-up of bacteria below the surface of the skin. These build ups can result in a variety of types of pimples, including cysts and nodules. While there is no technical definition for an "ingrown pimple," cysts and nodules develop deep below the surface of the skin and can therefore appear ingrown.
Step 1
Visit your dermatologist for a steroid injection. Nodules and cysts can take up to two weeks to heal if left untreated, and they can be painful. While there are ways to hide one of these pimples, a particularly effective way to make them less noticeable is treatment by steroid injection. A steroid injection, administered by a dermatologist, will cause the pimple to flatten and heal within two to four days, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Step 2
Use an at-home topical salicylic acid cream. Salicylic acid is a common ingredient in many acne washes and treatments, but it is most effective for a single pimple when used as a topical cream. A cyst or nodule pimple is so deep within the skin that salicylic acid may not be able to loosen the blocked pore, but it can help ease swelling, the most obvious and visible symptom. You can find salicylic acid acne treatments in a variety of strengths both over the counter and by prescription.
Step 3
Temporarily reduce swelling with ice. It may not work for everyone, but it is the cheapest and easiest option for reducing the swelling of a cyst or nodule pimple. Simply hold an ice cube against the pimple for about a minute. Holding it any longer can irritate the skin. If you have rosacea, do not use an ice cube to reduce swelling as it may cause more redness.
Step 4
Apply concealer to hid the pimple's redness. While the idea of makeup may make men balk, it is a quick and painless way to hide the redness associated with a cyst or nodule pimple. Use full coverage concealer that matches your skin color. Apply to the ingrown pimple a thin layer of concealer with a makeup brush or clean fingertip. Pat the concealer on gently. Do not rub. Remove makeup before going to bed to allow the pimple to heal.
Things You'll Need
- Topical salicylic acid treatment
- Ice cube
- Concealer
- Concealer brush (optional)
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