Use targeted spot treatments with pimple-shrinking ingredients
One of the most effective ways of tackling a pimple is with a targeted spot treatment with pimple-shrinking ingredients. These include actives such as:
- Salicylic acid
- Benzoyl peroxide
- Azelaic acid
- Retinoids
Salicylic acid dissolves dead skin cells and prevents hair follicles from clogging the skin. While it can be a little irritating on sensitive skin types, it’s ideal for use in targeted spot treatments.
This is a common ingredient used in acne medications as it is very effective at treating bacteria in the skin. As such, it’s often used in targeted spot treatments.
This is a natural acid found in rye, wheat and barley. It kills microorganisms in the skin and reduces inflammation.
Retinoids are derivatives of vitamin A and proven to accelerate skin-cell turnover in the skin. This makes them very good at removing dead skin cells and preventing clogged pores. They should be used carefully though as they can cause some irritation and make the skin more photo sensitive.
Apply a spot patch
Spot patches are a popular and effective way of helping a pimple to heal and disappear. They’re usually made from clear pieces of hydrocolloid gel and saturated with active ingredients. They are then applied directly to the blemish and left for a few hours or overnight. This enables effective absorption and supports spot healing.
Spot patches such as La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo+M 3H Spot Patches are clinically proven to reduce spots by forming a shield around them, pulling out impurities while keeping moisture balanced. With 420µm hydrocolloid technology, they also enable effective absorption and support spot healing.
Apply ice
If you’ve woken up with an angry, red spot, experts advise fighting the urge to pick and squeeze it and apply ice instead. This is believed to reduce swelling and calm redness due to the way ice constricts blood vessels and reduces inflammation. Take care to wrap the ice in a clean cloth before applying to avoid irritating the skin.
DON’T pop your pimple – and avoid further irritation
It can be incredibly tempting to pick and pop a spot, especially when you can see a white head. Dermatologists, however, advise not touching the spot at all as squeezing it can cause scarring and dark marks and leave it looking far worse than it did before. It also delays the healing process. Likewise, you should also avoid using very hot water on the spot, scrubbing it with harsh, irritating skincare or overwashing the skin. This can compromise the skin barrier and leave it dry and sensitive.
Visit a dermatologist for rapid spot reduction
If a spot has appeared before a big event such as your wedding day, you’ll be looking for quick fixes to reduce its size fast. One of the best ways to do this is by calling on the experts so make an appointment with a dermatologist for help. They can provide professional treatment to help get rid of the spot as quickly as possible such as injecting the spot with cortisone - a medication used to reduce inflammation in the body. However, treatments like this are expensive so should be reserved for emergencies. You can then work with your dermatologist on a longer-term plan for managing spots and breakouts.
How to shrink spots overnight
If you need to shrink a spot overnight, resist the urge to squeeze it and follow our essential pimple-busting tips.
Step one: Cleanse the skin with a gentle cleanser such as Effaclar Purifying Foaming
Gel
Step two: Apply ice to calm any inflammation
Step three: Apply your usual skincare including a targeted serum and lightweight
moisturiser such as Effaclar Duo+ M.
Step four: Apply a pimple patch such as Effaclar Duo+ M to protect the spot and help it heal overnight.
Discover La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo+M 3H Spot Patches
If you’re prone to breakouts and blemishes, it’s good to have a tried-and-tested routine at your fingertips to help manage them. Maintaining a targeted skincare routine that’s suitable for your skin type is essential as well as having products on hand such as La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo+M 3H Spot Patches.
Don’t forget to visit a dermatologist for more advice on managing blemishes and creating a long-term plan.
Add Effaclar Duo M+ 3H Spot Patches to your skincare routine today and heal and reduce spots fast.How to Get Rid of Spots Fast FAQs
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