While there's no foolproof method to instantly get rid of acne pimples, aspirin is about as close as it gets to that ideal. The acetylsalicylic acid in aspirin acts much as the straight salicylic acid found in many popular acne products, helping reduce the redness and inflammation that announce a new pimple's arrival. While a straight application of aspirin is the quickest remedy possible, if you have just few more minutes you can create a soothing mask to treat your entire face.
5-Minute Remedy
Step 1
Slice an aspirin tablet in half with a pill cutter, or lay the tablet on a cutting board and press a sturdy knife down on it to cut it. Be prepared for the two halves of the aspirin to go flying if you use the knife and cutting board method. If you're using an uncoated aspirin tablet you can skip this step.
Step 2
Moisten the cut edge of the aspirin tablet (or the side of the tablet, if it's uncoated) and apply over the pimple. Hold in place with a small adhesive bandage. Leave in place for at least 5 minutes.
Step 3
Remove the aspirin tablet and adhesive bandage. Rinse the affected skin and pat dry.
10-Minute Remedy
Step 1
Place four to six uncoated aspirin tablets in a small bowl. Wet your fingers, then flick them to sprinkle just enough water on the tablets to get them started dissolving--no more than half a teaspoon at the most.
Step 2
Mash the dissolving aspirin tablets into a paste with your fingers or the back of a spoon.
Step 3
Add a dollop of honey and up to 2 tbsp. of yogurt (both optional) to the paste if so desired. These ingredients will help moisturize your skin, although the honey itself also has antimicrobial properties. Mix thoroughly.
Step 4
Apply the aspirin paste to your entire face, taking care to avoid contact with your eyes. Leave in place for up to 5 minutes, then rinse your face clean and pat dry.
Tips and Warnings
- Don't use this remedy if you're allergic to aspirin.
Things You'll Need
- 1 to 6 uncoated aspirin tablets
- Pill cutter
- Small adhesive bandage
- Small bowl
- 1/2 tsp. lukewarm water
- Spoon
- Dollop of honey (optional)
- 2 tbsp. yogurt (optional)
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