I can’t believe I’m 28 and still get pimples. Didn’t you think your skin would magically become smooth and perfect when you hit your twenties, or was that just me? While I’ve certainly improved on my skincare routine as I’ve grown up, I’m realizing I may always be dealing with pimples to some degree. So rather than deny it, I’ve decided to come up with a system for treating my pimples that gets rid of them as quickly as possible. Here’s how!
1. Start with a consistent skincare routine
Before you do anything, it’s important that you find a consistent skincare routine that works for you. One that doesn’t cause excessive breakouts or irritate your skin. Once you find that magic formula (that may not give you perfect skin, but at least keeps it balanced), then you’ve got a solid base to work off of.
2. Look out for a red spot
I’ve noticed that before I got a pimple, a small red spot will begin to form on my skin. I think it’s important to look out for signs like this that tell you when a pimple is coming so you can start treating it right away.
3. Apply pimple cream every morning & night
Even before the pimple shows up, apply pimple cream to the spot every morning and night. Apply it right after you wash your face so that the ingredients permeate directly into the skin. I recommend trying a few different creams to figure out what main ingredient (salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide) works best for you. I’m a fan of ZAPZYT Acne Treatment Gel because it’s made up of 10% benzoyl peroxide so it’s super strong and perfect for on-the-spot treatments. Once you apply your cream, follow with your regular skincare routine.
And a special treat for you! The first five people to comment on this post with your acne experience will receive one of each full size ZAPZYT product! (Giveaway ends in 1 week and is open to U.S. residents only.)
4. Don’t touch it
You’ve heard it before, but it can’t hurt to say it again. Don’t touch it! The oil & dirt from your fingers and the picking & prodding can cause irritation that will only make it worse.
5. When you inevitably touch it…
Let’s be honest, you’ve probably already touched it. If you do, at least do it right:
- Only pop it when it’s ready. If it turns white, then it’s ready, but not all pimples turn white. So if it doesn’t, leave it alone!
- Keep it clean. If you do pop it, wash it and your hands before and after to keep the area as clean as possible. I also try to avoid applying makeup so I can let it breathe and heal.
- Applying ice to the area, after you’ve popped it, is a great way to bring down the swelling and close your pores.
- If you went a little overboard and the pimple has now turned into more of a cut, try applying straight up honey to the area. It’s anti-bacterial and hydrating properties help heal the wound and keep it clean!
Thank you to ZAPZYT for kindly sponsoring this post. All opinions are 100% honest & completely my own.
Jessica Says
I needed this post right now!!!!
Natalie | Natalie Was Here Says
Oh man…where do I even begin? I struggled with acne for YEARS. And it wasn’t like the “oh, I have a tiny pimple here and there” type acne, it was like BAM, ACNE. I dealt with it all, but as I got to high school and college, it became worse. After I graduated college and started working full time in PR, I noticed it was the worst it had ever been. I’ll blame stress for that! Eventually, I decided I’d had enough and talked to my dermatologist about Amnesteem, a generic form of Accutane. I was nervous to begin the treatment because of the potential side effects, but it worked SO well. I’ve been off of it for two years and my skin is completely clear! Best decision ever!
Natalie Was Here
Natalie | Natalie Was Here Says
P.S. – I should mention that while my skin is mostly clear now, I do still get little bumps from time to time, but NOTHING like the painful deep cystic acne I used to get. I still have some scarring, but I’m so happy those days are behind me! Anyone dealing with acne knows it really messes with your confidence.
Jackie Says
I also can’t believe that I’m 28 and still dealing with acne on a daily basis! ….and seeing the fact that my mom is too, it looks like it will be a long road ahead. I find that my ache tends to be hormonal and centered around my chin and jawline, but having a consistent washing schedule definitely helps.
Love the idea of ice, can’t wait to try it. Will any honey work as an anti-bacteria, or only Manuka honey?
Thanks for all of your great articles!
Bron Says
I’m 28 too, and have similar sounding issues. I feel like I’m trying to defend from wrinkles with one hand and keep the acne down with the other (although having oily skin can help with delaying wrinkles)
I use a honey mask weekly but I find it doesn’t harm or help the acne, but it does keep my skin hydrated and soft, which I think helps keep the dead skin cells out of my pores, causing the smaller bumps.
Jacqueline M Says
Would love a sample of this! I am twenty-four and I have a one-year old and totally thought by the time I was this age (and a mom) I would have no acne, yet here we are. If possible, my skin may be even worse than it was in high school, which attribute to my wacky hormones as a new mom. I am always looking for new products to help me banish the pimples for good! would love the chance to try this one!
Jacqueline M Says
Did you already send out to the winners?
Amanda Says
Post authorNot yet! I’ll keep you posted!!
Gabrielle Says
Would love to try this too, I’m still constantly searching for something effective!!
Brittany Says
This is perfect. Who knew in our upper 20s we would still need solutions for acne. I never had acne in high school and now its catching up to me. Thanks for the post!
Bron Says
Yesss, I’ve found my regular routine that keeps the little ones at bay but I get those blind pimples (red guys) like you’re tlaking about. I hate when they sit around waiting to come up but I find products with sulpher help draw it to the surface. Then I hit it with Benzol, though I’ve never heard of Zapzyt. Could be great!
Kara Nelles Says
I was literally just thinking about this yesterday! I had bad acne in high school, it went away in college, and it came BACK now as an adult. How does that even happen? Great tips, as always. :)
Ashley Says
I think the same thing! I’ll be 27 in August and can’t understand why it hasn’t magically cleared up yet!
Leviticus Bennett Says
I like your tip to apply honey to any cuts that result from popping a pimple. I never would’ve thought to use honey. My nephew has very serious acne, so I think he’ll need to see a dermatologist, but I’ll pass along these tips anyways.
prem ranjan Says
great post, I love your writing skills
Taylor Sauce Says
Great article!
( https://www.thetaylorsauce.com/health-beauty-tips/ )
Ankita Says
Fresh aloe vera gel contains a significant amount of nutrients and vitamins that can be used in the process of healing and recovery from acne, and in removing the scars that subsequently develop. It is also an excellent natural moisturizer that leaves the skin glowing and feeling healthier and softer.
Diana Fernandez Says
Hello
Thanks for the tips but I am here to ask the safe technique for popping a pimple. I know you guys won’t recommend doing it by myself. But I want to, please help me by providing some guidance. Thanks in advance
Susan George Says
Nice post thanks for sharing
Best hyperpigmentation cream Says
Great tips for getting rid of pimples and some awesome products…Thanks for sharing….
Ishani Kapoor Says
Hey, This is such a great article on treating pimple with care. With all such amazing tips on how get rid of pimple fast I would like on to add one way to prevent acne is by face mask. They will help in extracting all the oils from face.