Pimples, or clogged pores broken out into a lesion, should not be intentionally popped. But if you cannot resist the urge, or if the pimple bursts on its own, consider home remedies to aid healing and reduce the risk of scarring. Holistic approaches to healing encompass a balanced lifestyle to prevent future outbreaks, help get rid of the current problem and be healthier overall. Folk medicine can help many cases, but speak to a dermatologist if your acne concerns you.
Popping
If your pimple has not burst on its own, but you would like to take matters into your own hands, there are different ideas about which procedure yields the best results. Acne.org recommends using a disinfected needle to gently prick the pimple before using tissue-covered fingers to press down and in. After a warm shower is a good time to try popping, but stop if you see clear fluid or blood. The Home Remedies website suggests using a warm moist towel to bring the pimple to a head more quickly, allowing you to squeeze it more easily.
Cucumber
Once your pimple has popped, many treatments are no longer useful, as they will burn and sting, causing more damage than help. Cucumber is usually gentle enough to use even after a pimple has ruptured. Apply grated cucumber to the affected area before you see pimples to prevent whiteheads and blackheads from forming, as well as preventing dryness. Once pimples have burst, cucumber can help ease swelling. Leave cucumber on for about 15 minutes before rinsing with clean water.
Gentle Washing
The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases suggests gently washing your face with mild soap in the morning, evening and after sweat-producing exercise. Include skin from hairline to jaw and rinse completely. Talk to your dermatologist about which cleanser is best for your skin as many products can cause stinging, burning or drying. Avoid astringents, except on oily spots, and do not use scrub pads, which can spread acne. Also, if your hair is oily, shampoo daily.
Lifestyle Changes
Little evidence supports the idea that food affects the formation of acne, but a healthy diet can lead to healthy skin. Eat a balanced diet full of fruits and vegetables with limited amounts of fried foods, sugary treats, alcohol and caffeinated foods. Regular exercise helps reduce stress and aid proper digestion, which also reduces the likelihood of pimples forming. Avoid handling your skin frequently, shave carefully with either safety razors or electric razors, avoid sunburns and use non-oily makeup.
Cold Compress
Facial swelling may occur after pimples rupture due to the injury to your skin. MedlinePlus, the National Institutes of Health suggests using cold compresses to reduce swelling from injuries to your face. Additionally, elevating your head by sleeping with extra pillows may also help. If swelling becomes severe, is accompanied by severe pain, there is tenderness suggesting infection or you are having difficulty breathing, seek medical attention. Also, talk to your doctor if swelling does not improve or gets worse over time.
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