BEAUTY
8 Ways To Heal An Over-Picked Pimple
By MARCIA LAING
Clean The Picked Area
In order to prevent scarring or further damage from a popped pimple, it’s important to rinse your skin afterward to keep the bacteria from spreading. Dermatologist Sandra Lee, aka Dr. Pimple Popper, recommends using a cleanser with salicylic acid and to refrain from picking any scabs the picked pimple forms.
Use An Antiseptic Toner
Antiseptic toners can help prevent inflammation, such as Erno Laszlo’s Light Controlling Lotion, which does a great job of balancing your skin and kicking bad bacteria to the curb. Another good option is the First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Pads which have earned thousands of five-star reviews on Amazon.
Use Anti-Bacterial Ointment
A good bacteria-killing ointment will “prevent the area from getting an infection and allow the skin to heal properly,” Joshua Zeichner, M.D., told Seventeen. A decent spot treatment will list at least 2% salicylic acid and 2.5% benzoyl peroxide, and a great choice is the SLMD Acne Spot Treatment from Dr. Pimple Popper herself.
Try A Pimple Patch
Pimple patches are a great way to help heal over-picked pimples, and usually contain skin-saving ingredients like hydrocolloid, tea tree oil, salicylic acid, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide. It’s best to apply them to dry, cleansed pimples before you go to bed so they have enough time to work their magic.
Use A Gentle Moisturizer
Take caution with the moisturizer you apply to an over-picked pimple since some can irritate the area, making the spot more visible. Dr. Sandra Lee recommends those with dry skin from acne medication opt for a good hyaluronic acid serum that won’t clog your pores, and after the pimple heals, you can use some glycolic acid.