The Best Ways to Get Rid of Pimples and Reduce Acne Fast

Co-authored by Aly Rusciano Medically reviewed by Paul Friedman, MD

Last Updated: October 24, 2024 Fact Checked

Pimples sure are annoying! They’re red, painful, and downright inconvenient. But what if we told you you could get rid of them for good? There isn’t a universal cure for pimples (after all, everyone’s skin is different), but there are plenty of DIY and over-the-counter remedies you can try for fast relief. We’ve put together a guide on the best ways to get rid of a pimple, from easy treatments to preventative strategies. So, stop squeezing and start reading because we’ve got a pimple to treat!

Method 1

Method 1 of 3:

Home Remedies

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1
Ice surfaced pimples to reduce redness and swelling. Pimples get painful and bright because of inflammation, and what better way to cool everything down than with ice?^{[1]
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American Academy of Dermatology
Professional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists

Go to source} Wrap an ice cube or ice pack in a clean towel, and hold it on an inflamed pimple for 5 minutes. Remove it for another 5 minutes before placing it back on for 5 more minutes. Continue alternating between putting the ice on and off for 20 to 30 minutes.
- Try this method whenever your pimple starts to hurt or about 3 times daily until it goes away.
- Ice won’t help blackheads or whiteheads go away because they don’t swell like pustules or cysts.
2
Dab a 5% tea tree oil solution on your pimple for a natural spot treatment. Tea tree oil or Melaleuca’s anti-inflammatory properties are proven to reduce acne.^{[2]
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PubMed Central
Journal archive from the U.S. National Institutes of Health

Go to source} Simply mix together a solution of 1 part tea tree oil and 5 parts coconut oil or water, and use a cotton swab to rub it onto the pimple.^{[3]
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Cleveland Clinic
Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals

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- Always dilute a homemade tea tree oil solution before applying it to your skin, as it can cause burns or irritation.
- If you don’t have tea tree oil at home, try using an acne lotion or cream with 5% tea tree oil instead.
- If you experience redness, itching, or stinging when using a tea tree oil treatment, wash it off immediately, as you may be having an allergic reaction.^{[4]
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3
Apply a warm compress or steam to bring your pimple to the surface. If you feel a pimple starting to grow, avoid picking or squeezing it. Instead, take a long, hot shower or place a warm washcloth on the area. This will open your pores and help the pimple break through the skin faster.^{[5]
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Cleveland Clinic
Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals

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- Heat can help extract blackheads and whiteheads.
4
Make an aspirin paste to put on your pimple. Aspirin is an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication, making it a perfect DIY solution to reducing a pimple’s swelling. Simply grind up 5 to 7 uncoated aspirin tablets with 2 to 3 tbsp (30 to 45 mL) of water. Apply the paste to your pimple for 10 to 15 minutes once or twice a week.^{[6]
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- Make the paste thicker by adding a drop or two of honey or aloe gel.
- Although there’s limited scientific evidence on this remedy, it’s worth a try!
5
Treat your pimples with blue light to help them go away faster. Blue light is clinically proven to improve skin conditions and lessen the appearance of pimples.^{[7]
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DermNet NZ
Online clinical resource website written and run by dermatologists providing evidence-based information about dermatology and skin health

Go to source} Schedule an LED light therapy appointment with your dermatologist or at your local spa, or purchase an LED mask or wand to perform regular treatments at home.^{[8]
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- The results from this treatment are not instantaneous, and it may take weeks or months before you notice a difference in your skin.
- Always follow an LED device's instructions and safety guidelines if performing the treatment yourself.
- If you have rosacea or another skin condition, skip this treatment as it could worsen your symptoms.

Method 2

Method 2 of 3:

Over-the-Counter Treatments

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1
Use a salicylic or glycolic acid-based solution to dry out pimples.^{[9]
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Paul Friedman, MD
Board Certified Dermatologist, American Board of Dermatology

Expert Interview. 8 April 2020.} These acid-based products come in creams, lotions, cleansers, and wipes and have been proven to shrink pimples. Salicylic and glycolic acids dry out the skin, essentially pulling oil out of the pimple while shrinking the pore.^{[10]
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MedlinePlus
Collection of medical information sourced from the US National Library of Medicine

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- Try wiping your face with Stridex pads twice a day to reduce inflammation.
- Wash your face with a salicylic acid-based cleanser to remove any excess oils.
- Although these products reduce the size of pimples, they may also cause skin peeling, stinging, and dryness. Try using a non-comedogenic moisturizer afterwards to combat these side effects.
2
Put a benzoyl peroxide-based treatment on your pimple to shrink it. Benzoyl peroxide is a popular acne treatment because of its antibacterial properties. This organic acid can help dry out and minimize pores while reducing the risks of infection. Simply follow the directions on your chosen product’s label and apply as instructed (typically once or twice a day).^{[11]
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- If you have sensitive skin, you may experience skin dryness, redness, or flaking while using a benzoyl peroxide-based cream, gel, or lotion.
- Apply a non-comedogenic moisturizer when you’re not using the treatment to keep your skin soft and smooth.
3
Use a sulfur acne treatment to stop acne in its tracks. Sulfur is a natural element that repels the bacteria P. acnes which causes acne. Its antimicrobial properties stop the bacteria’s growth, lessening your chance of getting more pimples.^{[12]
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American Academy of Family Physicians
Organization devoted to improving the health of patients, families, and communities

Go to source} Try washing your face with a sulfur-based cleanser, using a sulfur spot treatment once or twice a day, or relaxing with a sulfur-based face mask once a week.
- Sulfur doesn’t stop hormonal acne but can keep present acne at bay.
4
Apply a hydrocortisone cream to stubborn acne. This cream could be your saving grace if you’re dealing with severe breakouts that leave your face puffy, swollen, and/or itching. Talk to your doctor about whether or not this treatment plan is best for you. They’ll also be able to instruct you on how often to apply the cream.^{[13]
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National Health Service (UK)
Public healthcare system of the UK

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- For some, hydrocortisone cream can worsen pimples, so always talk to your doctor before trying something new.

Method 3

Method 3 of 3:

Acne Prevention

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Try taking zinc or fish oil supplements to clear your skin. Sometimes, acne occurs when there’s something off in the body. Some studies have shown that those with acne have less zinc in their bodies than those who don’t have acne. Additionally, fish oil contains omega-3 fatty acids, which are proven to lessen acne swelling.^{[14]
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Research source} So why not add a few new vitamins to your routine and see if your skin changes for the better?
2
Wash your face regularly to keep your skin nice and clean. Acne and pimples are caused by oil build-up, bacteria, and dead skin cells. Making sure your face is clean and oil free can help stop pimples from forming.^{[15]
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Research source} Wash your face with a gentle facial cleanser without alcohol and lukewarm water twice a day and after you sweat.^{[16]
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- Avoid touching your face whenever you can, as the oils from your hands can transfer to your face and cause pimples.
- Acne can also be caused by hormones, genetics, and medications. And although washing your face can’t change those factors, it can help prevent pimples from growing.
If you have oily skin or are prone to acne, try washing your pillowcase once a week. This destroys any lingering bacteria and oils from your restful nights, giving you a clean slate to sleep easy on!^{[17]
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Some pimples and acne cases can be more severe or stubborn than others. If your home remedies and over-the-counter treatments don’t work, take a deep breath and call your doctor. They’ll be able to determine if there are any underlying problems out of your control and provide you with the best personalized solutions.

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Question

Can you use alcohol to dry out a pimple?

Laura Martin
Licensed Cosmetologist
Laura Martin is a Licensed Cosmetologist based in Milledgeville, Georgia. She has been working as a hair stylist since 2007, and began a career as a cosmetology teacher in 2013. She worked as a teacher at Arrojo Cosmetology School, teaching cosmetology practices, hairstyling, and hair color application. She also brought her cosmetology expertise to her work as a staff writer for fashion blog Style Noted, writing pieces related to hair and fashion. She received an MFA in Creative Writing from Georgia College & State University, where she was also an English Teaching Fellow. Additionally, she received a BA in Creative Writing and Literature from New York University.

Laura Martin

Licensed Cosmetologist

Expert Answer

You can use alcohol to dry out a pimple but it probably won't get to the root of the blemish. Alcohol can also leave skin dehydrated and cause peeling.

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How do you quickly get rid of a pimple at home?

Paul Friedman, MD
Board Certified Dermatologist, American Board of Dermatology
Paul Friedman, MD, is a Board-Certified Dermatologist, and the Director and Founder of the Dermatology & Laser Surgery Center in Houston, Texas. He has over 25 years of experience and specializes in Mohs micrographic surgery, dermatologic laser surgery, and cosmetic dermatology. Dr. Friedman is the current President of the American Society for Laser Medicine & Surgery and was named by Newsweek Magazine as one of the Best Dermatologists in America for Laser Treatments. His awards include the Husk Prize for his research in dermatologic surgery and the Young Investigator's Writing Competition Award of the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery. Dr. Friedman completed his dermatology residency at the New York University School of Medicine and received his medical degree with the highest honors from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center, College of Medicine.

Paul Friedman, MD

Board Certified Dermatologist, American Board of Dermatology

Expert Answer

Over-the-counter products such as a product called Differin, which is a vitamin A cream, are going to be your best bet if you don't have the benefit of going in to see a dermatologist right away. What works best varies based on the type of acne that you have, but that's a very good go-to over-the-counter medication that works well for certain types of acne.

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Is there a permanent cure for pimples?

Paul Friedman, MD
Board Certified Dermatologist, American Board of Dermatology
Paul Friedman, MD, is a Board-Certified Dermatologist, and the Director and Founder of the Dermatology & Laser Surgery Center in Houston, Texas. He has over 25 years of experience and specializes in Mohs micrographic surgery, dermatologic laser surgery, and cosmetic dermatology. Dr. Friedman is the current President of the American Society for Laser Medicine & Surgery and was named by Newsweek Magazine as one of the Best Dermatologists in America for Laser Treatments. His awards include the Husk Prize for his research in dermatologic surgery and the Young Investigator's Writing Competition Award of the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery. Dr. Friedman completed his dermatology residency at the New York University School of Medicine and received his medical degree with the highest honors from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center, College of Medicine.

Paul Friedman, MD

Board Certified Dermatologist, American Board of Dermatology

Expert Answer

Cleansers that contain salicylic acid or glycolic acid can be useful for opening up clogged pores and improving acne. What works best will vary based on the type of acne that you have.

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Some skincare DIYers will say to put toothpaste on your pimple, but doctors strongly advise against this, as the chemicals in the toothpaste could actually irritate your pimple more.^{[18]
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Try reducing stress when you can. Believe it or not, stress can cause pimples to emerge.^{[19]
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Mental Health Foundation
UK charity working towards good mental health for all.

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Don’t try too many pimple-reducing methods at once; otherwise, you may irritate your skin more. Wait at least 24 hours before trying something different to give your skin a break.

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The advice in this section is based on the lived experiences of wikiHow readers like you. If you have a helpful tip you’d like to share on wikiHow, please submit it in the field below.

To open up your pores, set your sink to highest level of hot and put a towel over the sink and your head. The steam will rise and get on your face. This will open up the pores to release any oil or dirt in your face. Only do this for 20-30 seconds. After, use any kind of soap that's not too harsh and wash with warm water. Then your face will be cleaner and feel more fresh than before.
Do not pop pimples! That can lead to very bad scarring on your face and can even make it infected and get even worse than it already is. Try not to go to bed with a lot of make up on. That can also cause your face to get really oily and break out. Also, do not drink a lot of pop or sugary things like candy, as they can sometimes lead to breakouts.
Use a salicylic face wash (I recommend Aveno's "Clear Complexion" line), then apply witchhazel on a small cotton ball or pad and apply all over your face. Wait for the witchhazel to dry and apply your moisturizer. Your pimple should be visibly reduced overnight. I recommend Dickinson's Witchhazel and you can find it right in the skincare aisle.

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