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As soon as we step into adolescence we are attacked by pimples and then more pimples. Certain whiteheads can easily be treated with some over-the-counter skincare products while some serious cases need serious techniques. Learning how to treat an infected pimple, you need essential epidermal education.
How to know if the pimple is infected?
An infected pimple is more prominent. It is larger in diameter than a normal zit. It comes with pain, inflammation and visible pus.
How does a pimple get infected?
It’s not a pretty picture. The pimple gets more swollen as bacteria and dead skin cells gather up and fester under it which, sometimes, result in a pustule. A pustule is a highly inflamed pimple with a yellow or white centre filled with pus.
A pimple usually gets infected because of poking, picking, scratching, rubbing and prodding the pimple without proper products and technique.
How can you treat an infected pimple at home?
A spot treatment containing a high concentration of salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, sulfur or resorcinol is the best way to treat a new pimple. It can’t be stressed enough that you should leave it alone after applying a treatment cream. The ingredients mentioned above dissolve follicular buildup which treats a pimple effectively.
The only time for DIY extraction is when the white pus starts to come out of the pimple. Cleanse your face thoroughly and then disinfect the pimple and the area around it. Wrap your fingers in a tissue and apply pressure with two fingers on the skin around the pimple in the opposite direction (top and bottom or left and right), The head of the pustule will come out first followed by pus. Clean and disinfect it quickly with a salicylic acid-based toner.
When to see a doctor?
If you feel the pimple getting more and more inflamed and painful like throbbing deep under the skin. You doctor can give you a cortisone shot or offer a prescription if you are suffering from breakouts. Also, you can get a chemical-peel facial or an extraction-based facial by schedule an appointment with a dermatologist.
Are there any other risks with an infected pimple?
Scarring caused by fingernails along with discolouration and indentation from applying too much pressure is the biggest risk of an infected pimple. Not cleaning or disinfecting well after extraction can spread bacteria and cause more pimples. Exfoliation should be done extremely carefully or avoided completely. Under-exfoliation and over-exfoliation both can be a cause of pimples.
