How to get rid of a hard pimple

Dermatologists generally advise against popping hard pimples at home. It can lead to scarring or infection. There are other methods a person can try to help with the appearance or help get rid of them, such as creams.

Hard pimples can be more difficult to remove than other kinds, as they tend to be larger and deeper. They are often blind pimples, which means they do not have a head.

Sometimes, hard pimples may occur as a result of acne.

Learn more about whether to pop a pimple at home.

Depending on the severity of a pimple, a person may be able to treat it at home; sometimes, a pimple requires medical treatment.

To treat a hard pimple at home, a person can use the following methods:

• Creams and ointments: The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends over-the-counter creams that contain benzoyl peroxide, retinoids, salicylic acid, and azelaic acid.
• Warm compress: A warm compress can soften the spot, allowing pus to come to the surface. It can also help a blind pimple come to a head.
• Ice packs: Using an ice pack is a good way to reduce inflammation and pain. Ice may be especially effective for hard pimples, such as nodules and cysts.
• Cleansers: Wash the skin daily, especially after sweating. Opt for a gentle, non-abrasive cleanser and apply it to the skin using the fingertips rather than scrubbing with clothes or other tools. Cleansers that contain benzoyl peroxide may also help, but people should gradually introduce this into their skincare routine.
• Tea tree oil: There is very limited research that shows using tea tree oil for acne is helpful. Still, a small 2016 study found that tea tree oil can be helpful in the treatment of mild to moderate acne, and it is generally well-tolerated. A person may wish to try tea tree oil for a hard pimple, as the potential for serious side effects is likely small.
• Vitamin-based creams: The data on how well these products work is not conclusive, and the concentrations of active ingredients, such as retinol or zinc, can vary between products.

Some studies suggest that there may be a link between gastrointestinal (GI) health and chronic skin conditions such as acne. The researchers suggest that taking probiotics may help.

If a hard pimple is causing distress, a dermatologist can remove it safely and effectively. They may be able to drain it or use a corticosteroid injection for deeper pimples.

Avoid popping pimples at home, especially when they are hard, deep pimples. Attempts to do this can:

• make a pimple larger
• increase inflammation
• push pus and dirt deeper into the pore
• increase the risk of infection
• cause scarring

Learn about other ways to remove pimples.

Acne is typically caused by the skin producing excess oils. It is not directly caused by poor hygiene.

However, keeping the skin and hair clean can reduce outbreaks and prevent all kinds of pimples from developing. Tips from dermatologists include:

• Regular washing: Use a gentle cleanser to keep the pores open, prevent the buildup of dead skin cells, and help keep bacteria at bay.
• Wash hair regularly: Regular washing is especially important if the hair is naturally oily. Keeping hair away from the skin on the face can help reduce the frequency and severity of pimples.
• Avoid touching the face: Frequent touching can spread dirt or oil and cause flare-ups.
• Choose products carefully: Always read the labels on makeup and facial products, opting for gentle, oil-free brands. These are sometimes called noncomedogenic.

Learn about how to prevent pimples.

Many different elements influence the development and growth of a hard pimple, including:

• Excess oil on the skin: When the body produces lots of sebum, or facial oil, dead skin cells can stick together and block up the pores. This increases the chances of developing a hard pimple.
• Hormones: An increase in androgens, male sex hormones, can lead to acne. This increase in boys and girls, usually during puberty, can cause the sebaceous glands to enlarge and produce more sebum. Hormonal changes related to pregnancy can also cause acne.
• Bacteria: Once a pore becomes blocked by a combination of sebum and dead skin cells, it is easier for bacteria to enter and create a pimple.
• Family history: Acne may run in families.
• Medications: Some medications cause pimples or acne as a side effect.

For individuals who already have pimples, the following can make outbreaks worse:

• stress
• using certain skin care or makeup products
• eating certain foods
• a lack of sleep
• rubbing and chafing across affected areas
• trying to pop or squeeze out existing pimples
• rough scrubbing of affected areas
• changes in weather
• workouts and exercise equipment

Learn whether sweat causes acne.

Types of pimples include:

• Whiteheads: Also known as closed comedones, whiteheads occur when the follicle is blocked.
• Blackheads: Also known as open comedones, blackheads have a black appearance due to a surface pigment called melanin rather than dirt.
• Papules: These are inflamed lesions that can appear as pink, small bumps. Papules can be sensitive to the touch.
• Pustules: Larger than blackheads and whiteheads, pustules are similar to papules but are redder and contain pus.
• Nodules: These are a type of hard pimple that can be large and painful. Nodules are deep within the skin.
• Cysts: Usually found deep below the skin when a pus-filled membrane forms around the inflammation. Cysts are likely to scar.

Learn more about comedones and comedonal acne.

Many adolescents and young adults experience acne and pimples.

In general, the outlook for individuals dealing with a hard pimple is good. The kind of pimples most people get tend to develop and disappear reasonably quickly.

Acne can be mild, moderate, or severe.

In more severe cases, scarring is possible.

Popping deep or hard pimples can also increase the risk of scarring. After skin heals from acne, a person may notice sunken or raised scars. The amount of collagen the body produces during this healing period can determine the scar type a person has. Raised scars are more common in people with darker skin tones.

Learn how to stimulate collagen production in the skin.

How long do hard pimples last?

This can vary from person to person. For some, hard pimples can last weeks to months.

If at-home treatment has not worked or several hard pimples occur, the AAD recommends visiting a dermatologist to find out the best course of treatment.

Learn what to do when pimples do not go away.

Hard pimples can be more difficult to remove than other kinds, as they tend to be larger and deeper. Never pop a hard pimple, as it can lead to scars or infection, especially if not done correctly.

There are some at-home methods a person can try to help with hard pimples. These include using products that contain benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, warm compresses, or ice packs. Keeping the skin clean and healthy is a good way to prevent breakouts.

Consult a dermatologist if at-home measures do not help or if several hard pimples occur. They can recommend prescription medication or other procedures.