There are as many types of acne as there are skin types, and whilst some lucky people will only have their spots noticeable for a day or two, others will need to go to an acne treatment clinic before the spots start to go away.
Similarly, whilst some people will get a rash of small bumpy red papules, other people will get one or two huge spots of cysts instead, which are often both painful to the touch and frustrating to try and hide with makeup.
They can be quite frustrating, and whilst waiting for your appointment at a clinic that will be able to help, here are some tips you can try.
Do Not Pop It
The temptation is always there to pop spots, but it is without question the worst move you can make for your skin.
The reasons why this is are fairly self-evident; whilst it can sometimes make you feel better and most people want to do something about a spot even if it is something far from beneficial, it could potentially damage your skin or make your spots worse.
If the cyst is rooted in your skin, it can cause acne scarring, something that can be very difficult to fix without in-clinic intervention, and even if it heals on its own it will take longer to do so.
It could also push debris and dirt into the pore, increasing the risk of infection and causing spots to spread. This is why the saying goes that scratching the head off of a spot will cause two to grow in its place.
Do not use a needle to pop it either or create a hole to drain it of pus. It will not work the way you think it should.
Apply A Warm Flannel
Whilst you should not squeeze the spot on its own, you can in some cases encourage the spot to drain itself by using a flannel soaked in warm (but not hot) water.
Press it gently against the spot for about 20 minutes, twice a day for as many days as it takes to settle down. If it has not changed at all after doing this for a week, then it may need professional intervention.
Use An Ice Treatment
If the spot is quite swollen or has caused swelling around it, then an ice treatment can at least reduce the pain and swelling, even if it cannot necessarily get rid of the spot itself.
Make sure to wrap the ice you use in a towel, however. Do not apply ice directly to the skin as it can cause frostbite if you hold it there too long. A plastic bag is not enough protection from this either so be sure to use a towel or flannel.
Do Not Overwash
Having acne does not mean your skin needs any more cleaning than usual, and you can potentially irritate your skin and make spots worse by washing more than twice a day.
Instead, stick to washing your face when you wake up, before you go to bed and if your face is sweating during the day such as after exercising or during a really humid day.
