It’s everyone’s worst nightmare. Waking up the day before a  special event to discover a big, red pimple baring itself for all  to see right on your face!  

Here’s how to get rid of it quickly and safely:  

1. Don’t ever pinch, squeeze or pick at a pimple. This only  causes it to become more red and inflamed, and will spread the  bacteria and oils that caused it in the first place, to other  parts of your face! It can also lead to scars.  

2. Every 30 minutes, apply an ice pack to the pimple and hold it  there for about 2 minutes. This will decrease the swelling and  redness and help shrink the inflammation and pain that sometimes  comes along with it.  

3. They don’t call it concealer for nothing! Covering the pimple  with a light dose of flesh-tinted concealer can help mask it when  you’re in a hurry. It also helps cover up that oily shine.  

4. Cleanse your skin 2-3 times a day with mild, unscented soap or  a specialized acne cleanser that has no harsh chemicals (such as  lye). Scrub skin gently with an exfoliating pad or washcloth, but  don’t rub too hard, otherwise you’ll sap your skin of its own  natural oils, which help to repel buildup naturally.  

5. Apply a cream or ointment containing benzyl peroxide or  salicylic acid (many over-the-counter acne medicines contain  these ingredients) to the blemish or around the entire facial  area. Note that these ingredients both have a tendency to dry  out skin if used too much and are not recommended if you have  sensitive skin.  

6. Wear oil-free makeup whenever possible. These types have less  of a tendency to cause the pore buildup that results in  blemishes. Remove your makeup nightly and cleanse with an  acne-fighting medicine to remove dirt, oil and makeup from deep  within the skin.  

7. If you’re in need of a quick fix, a dab of toothpaste on the  affected area right before bed can help soothe irritation and  reduce redness. Pressing and holding a wet tea bag or a cotton  ball with a dab of lemon juice against the blemish for five  minutes can also reduce swelling and redness.  

If you follow these tips, chances are you’ll notice a significant  difference rather quickly – often within a day or two. If  pimples become a recurring problem or worsen, your doctor or  dermatologist can suggest a daily skin cleansing routine that  will suit your skin type. Other long-term remedies, such as  facial masks, diet adjustments and increasing the amount of water  you drink can also help combat outbreaks.  

The information contained in this article is for educational purposes   only and is not intended to medically diagnose, treat or cure any   disease. Consult a health care practitioner before beginning any   health care program.