When you see a pimple rearing its ugly head, it can be tempting to pop it. It’ll get rid of some of the pressure, and maybe the blemish will look a little less obvious for your event. That sense of relief is short-lived. Not only can you cause scars that are difficult to conceal, but popping that zit can also spread bacteria and cause more blemishes. Then there are the horror stories, such as the woman from Austin, Texas, who popped a pimple and paved the way for a nasty staph infection on her face.[1] Instead of damaging your skin or causing an infection, it’s always better to use an acne treatment. You can painlessly tackle the problem without leaving any marks. If you’re already looking at your skin and feeling guilty about the acne scars on your face, don’t panic. There are treatments available to minimize and reverse that type of damage as well.
To get rid of your pimples and heal acne scars, try one of these
1. Mario Badescu Drying Lotion
If you need something that works quickly and effectively, this spot treatment by Mario Badescu is a great option. The salicylic acid and calamine (the same ingredient used to treat poison ivy) can dry out a pimple overnight. Instead of spreading bacteria on your face, use this drying lotion to shrink whiteheads and heal acne. This treatment is so simple that you don’t even need to rub it in. Just dab it on, let it dry overnight, and then rinse your face in the morning. A little bit goes a long way. Mario Badescu Drying Lotion, 1 fl. oz., $17.00
2. Mederma Advanced Scar Gel – .7 oz.
Those tough acne scars will gradually disappear if you use Mederma Advanced Scar Gel. Use this once daily to reduce or eliminate scars–regardless of how long you’ve had them. This is a great product to have on hand because it works for many different types of scars, not just those caused by acne. Mederma is recommended by doctors and pharmacists over other brands because it’s proven effective in clinical trials. Adding this product to your medicine cabinet can help you with existing scars, and it’ll ensure that you’re prepared for any scar-inducing situation that could crop up in the future. Mederma Advanced Scar Gel – .7 oz., $14.78
3. Bio-Oil Liquid Purcellin Oil, 4.2 Fl Oz
When you have sensitive skin, applying products can cause more irritation. A scar-remover might not seem worth the extra damage that it could cause. Bio-Oil is hypoallergenic, and its non-greasy formula means that it won’t clog your pores and make matters worse. This product has not only aced clinical trials, but it has also been the top-ranked scar-reducing product in 18 countries. We usually think of treating acne and scars in teens, but this formula works well on aging skin too. Uneven skin-tone and dry skin are also no match for Bio-Oil. Bio-Oil Liquid Purcellin Oil, 4.2 Fl oz, $12.32
4. Nexcare Acne Absorbing Covers
If you find it truly difficult to resist the urge to pop a zit, these acne absorbing covers by Nexcare may be a good bet for you. Since they cover the blemish, you’ll be less likely to try to squeeze it. The covers are drug free, and non-drying, which means that they’re great if you’re someone who doesn’t respond well to salycilic acid and drying agents found in many medicated acne treatments. This products works by soaking up the pus, oils, and bacteria in the blemish. The color of the cover changes to let you know that it’s working. Nexcare Acne Absorbing Cover, Two Sizes, 36 Count, $6.39
5. Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay Deep Pore Cleansing
If you prefer to go the natural route, this bentonite clay skin treatment is a good option. It doesn’t contain any additives, fragrances, or animal products, and it will deep-clean your pores. This clay is sourced from Death Valley, California, where it bakes in the sun for at least six months. This method of cleansing the skin and healing insect bites and acne has been around for centuries. Although this one is tried and true, it may not be best for those with sensitive skin. Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay Deep Pore Cleansing, 1 Pound, $9.80
6. Amara Organics Vitamin C Serum for Face 20% with Hyaluronic Acid & Vitamin E
This is another great all-around product. It’s effective at healing and reducing acne, but it is also works on scars. You can use this if you’re battling outbreaks, and it’s an excellent choice for making aging skin more radiant. Amara is 100% organic, cruelty free, and fuss-free. You won’t need to worry about walking around with an oily or sticky acne treatment on your face. It absorbs quickly, leaving you with smooth and healthy skin. Amara Organics Vitamin C Serum for Face 20% with Hyaluronic Acid & Vitamin E, 1 fl. oz, $19.95
7. Neutrogena Rapid Clear Stubborn Acne Daily Leave-On Mask
Don’t let the word “mask” in the title fool you. This isn’t one of those masks that you have to peel off your face after a few minutes. This product absorbs into your skin–you don’t have to spend time washing it off. It applies in a thin and even layer so that you can even use it underneath makeup. Let this one work while you’re at work–nobody will be able to tell that you’re treating your skin as you go about your day. Benzoyl peroxide, the acne-fighting ingredient in the mask, is a gentle and effective way to treat acne daily. This product will decrease the inflammation and size of pimples in as little as four hours, and it prevents future blemishes from popping up. Neutrogena Rapid Clear Stubborn Acne Daily Leave-On Mask, 2 oz. (pack of 3), $20.92
8. Neutrogena Rapid Clear 2-in-1 Fight & Fade Acne Toner
Neutrogena is well-known for their skin-care products, which is why the brand has a second mention on our list. This Rapid Clear Toner not only reduces acne, but it can also minimize old acne scars. A build up of oil and dead skin cells, common causes of pimples, don’t stand a chance against this product. The salicylic acid and exfoliating ingredients in this toner can reduce acne in as little as 8-hours. If you get pimples on a frequent basis, this is a product that you could use daily to alleviate the issue. Neutrogena Rapid Clear 2-in-1 Fight & Fade Acne Toner, 8 fl.oz., $10.69
9. InstaNatural Vitamin C Serum with Hyaluronic Acid & Vitamin E
InstaNatural harnesses the power of plants to nourish and beautify your skin. This Vitamin C serum helps to remove signs of aging by reducing the negative effects of everything from pollution to UV rays. This is a solid choice for alleviating acne scars. Regardless of your skin’s sensitivity or moisture level, this product works with your unique body chemistry to make your skin radiant. You can use this as a standalone product, or you can incorporate it into your favorite mask or moisturizer to give it a boost. InstaNatural Vitamin C Serum with Hyaluronic Acid & Vitamin E, $17.97
10. Neostrata Enlighten Pigment Controller
If you have discoloration on your face from acne scars, NeoStrata’s blend can help to remedy it. Your skin constantly sheds cells, but this product causes this to happen at an accelerated rate. This paves the way for more even-toned skin to take its place, and the tyrosinase-inhibiting formula prevents new discoloration from occurring. The Vitamin E in NeoStrata nourishes and protects your skin, while ingredients such as Retinol have proven anti-aging benefits. Say goodbye to the remnants of all those pimples you popped in your teenage years and hello to clear healthy skin. Neostrata Enlighten Pigment Controller 30ml Treatment Beauty Product, $38.18
You don’t have to pop your pimples or live with the scars
With so many products for various skin types, there is no excuse to waste another minute leaning over the bathroom sink trying to bust a zit. The scars and the potential for infection are simply not worth the momentary relief. Instead of giving into the pimple-popping craze that’s gained so much popularity on the internet, treat your skin with the respect it deserves.
