Hygiene

Many dermatologists recommend letting pimples go away on their own to prevent scarring, tissue damage and infection. But, when you have an important business meeting or a date, you're not going with a zit on your face!

If you are going to get rid of a pimple, do it the right way:

-Wait until the pimple is fully developed and a white head is showing
-Wash your hands thoroughly to get rid of bacteria and wash your face with warm water and a gentle cleanser
-Consider popping the zit after a shower, when the pores are open or hold a warm washcloth on the area to help open it
-Sterilize a needle and prick the top of the pimple
-Gently squeeze the area around the sides of the pimple, putting equal pressure on both sides. Squeeze until you see clear liquid or blood
-Use a clean tissue to dab away the liquid and pus, being careful not to spread it onto other parts of your body
-Wash your hands
-If there is swelling, apply a cold washcloth with some ice in it to the area
-Apply hydrogen peroxide on the open pore and dab on Benzoyl Peroxide

Remember never to dig at pimples or blackheads that are still under the surface, that will only cause a flare-up. Keep your nails short and free of dirt so that you don't spread bacteria onto your face. If you have cysts or nodules, do not attempt to pop them! See a dermatologist who will give you a shot of cortisone to bring down the swelling. Now dab on some oil-free, noncomedogenic...