How to Get Rid of Pimples Safely and Effectively

What You’ll Need

A mild, fragrance-free cleanser and a clean towel.
A non-comedogenic moisturizer and broad-spectrum sunscreen rated SPF 30 or higher.
One over-the-counter acne product: benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or adapalene. Check the label and ask a pharmacist or clinician if you are unsure which is appropriate.
Optional: hydrocolloid pimple patches for covering an open or picked spot and discouraging touching. They do not treat acne beneath intact skin.

Step-by-Step

Identify the likely problem. Pimples commonly arise when pores become clogged and inflamed. A few spots may respond to home care, but widespread, deep, painful bumps or acne that leaves scars deserves professional attention. A rash, sudden severe breakout, or bumps around the eyes may have another cause, so do not assume every bump is acne.
Cleanse gently. Wash your face once in the morning and once at night, and after sweating heavily, using lukewarm water and a mild cleanser. Use your fingertips rather than a scrub, brush, or rough washcloth. Rinse and pat dry. Scrubbing hard or washing repeatedly can irritate skin without clearing pores faster.
Begin with one active ingredient. Pick a product whose label lists benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or adapalene. If your skin is sensitive, start with a lower-strength product where available and apply it to a small area first. Follow the package directions; do not combine several new acne treatments at once. If there is no concerning reaction, use it as directed and increase frequency only as the label allows.
Apply it carefully. Use a thin layer on the acne-prone area, not just on visible spots, if the product directions call for that. Keep it away from eyes, lips, and broken skin, and wash your hands afterward. Benzoyl peroxide can bleach towels, clothing, and pillowcases, so let it dry and use fabrics you do not mind fading. Adapalene can cause irritation and increases sun sensitivity; it is not suitable during pregnancy. Ask a clinician or pharmacist before using it if pregnant or trying to become pregnant.
Moisturize and protect your skin. Apply a non-comedogenic moisturizer if skin feels dry or tight. In the morning, use broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher and reapply according to its label, especially after swimming or sweating. Sun protection matters because acne treatments can make skin more sensitive, and irritation or inflammation may leave marks that darken in sunlight.
Leave pimples alone. Do not squeeze, pick, or pierce them. Popping can push inflammation deeper, delay healing, and raise the risk of infection, discoloration, and scars. A hydrocolloid patch can protect a surface spot from fingers, but do not use it as a substitute for treating ongoing acne.
Give the routine time. Take note of irritation and whether new spots are forming, rather than judging the result after a day or two. Acne treatments generally need several weeks of consistent use to show a clear effect; follow product directions and do not keep increasing the amount. If acne has not improved after about 8 to 12 weeks of appropriate use, or it is worsening, arrange a medical appointment.

Common Mistakes

Using a harsh scrub, alcohol-based toner, or repeated face washing can damage the skin barrier and make redness and stinging worse. More product is not more effective: large amounts or applying an acne medicine more often than directed can cause peeling, burning, and dryness. Starting several active ingredients together also makes it difficult to tell what is irritating your skin.

Toothpaste, lemon juice, baking soda, and household disinfectants are not acne treatments and may irritate or injure skin. Avoid tanning as a way to “dry out” pimples; ultraviolet exposure can harm skin and may worsen lingering dark marks. Also, do not stop a useful treatment after a few days simply because spots remain.

Tips

Choose products labeled non-comedogenic or oil-free if heavier products seem to clog your pores.
Keep hair products away from your face, and rinse sweat off gently after exercise.
Change out of sweaty clothing and avoid repeatedly touching your face.
Use a clean towel and avoid sharing face towels, makeup, or applicators.
Check acne product labels for directions and warnings. Some products can irritate skin or interact with other treatments; a pharmacist or clinician can help you choose a safe routine.

Troubleshooting

If skin becomes dry or mildly irritated: Pause the active product until skin settles, keep cleansing gentle, and moisturize. Restart only as the label permits, possibly less often if directions allow. Stop using it and seek medical advice if irritation is severe, persistent, or worsening.

If you develop swelling, hives, blistering, or trouble breathing: Stop the product and seek urgent medical care for a serious allergic reaction, especially breathing difficulty or swelling of the face or throat.

If spots keep returning or are deep and painful: Do not respond by scrubbing harder or layering more products. A dermatologist can assess the acne and discuss appropriate treatment; early care can reduce the chance of lasting scars.

If there is no improvement: Check that you are using the product as directed and give it a consistent trial, generally several weeks. If there is little change after about 8 to 12 weeks, or acne is leaving scars or dark marks, consult a dermatologist rather than cycling through many products.

If you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or breastfeeding: Ask a clinician or pharmacist before starting acne medicine. Avoid adapalene during pregnancy, and do not assume an over-the-counter product is suitable just because it is sold without a prescription.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get rid of a pimple?

A single pimple may settle over several days, but acne treatments take longer to reduce new breakouts. Many need consistent use for several weeks; follow the label and seek care for painful or persistent acne.

Should I pop a pimple?

No. Squeezing can worsen inflammation and increase the risk of infection, dark marks, and scars. Covering a spot with a hydrocolloid patch may help prevent touching it.

Which ingredient should I try first?

Benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, and adapalene are common over-the-counter options, but they work differently and may irritate skin. Start with one, follow its directions, and ask a pharmacist or clinician if you need help choosing.

Can I use more than one acne product?

Some routines combine ingredients, but introducing several at once can cause irritation and make it hard to identify the cause. Begin with one product and get professional guidance before adding others.

When should I see a dermatologist?

Make an appointment for deep or painful acne, scarring, persistent breakouts, or acne that has not improved after a consistent trial of over-the-counter care. Seek prompt medical advice for a severe reaction to a product.

Further reading: American Academy of Dermatology. Details can change, so check the official page for anything that matters to you. Spotted a mistake? Tell us. How we write an answer.