How to Reduce Acne Swelling: The Road to Clear Skin
If you see dreadful, large, reddish and painful zits on your face, then you’re probably developing swollen acne. Not good! We know how concerning it is to have this kind of skin condition, but knowing the proper way to treat it yourself can lessen the swelling. Don’t let acne leave scars on your skin or you might regret it forever! Here, we’ll tell you more about the symptoms and causes of acne, and most importantly, we’ll share with you some simple yet effective ways on how to reduce acne swelling.
What Is Acne and What Causes It?
Acne is a kind of skin disease caused by inflamed skin glands and hair follicles on the face. Acne problem usually starts during the teenage years–puberty stage.
It occurs when hair follicles are blocked by sebum that carries dead skin cells, which results in having blackheads, whiteheads or pimples. There are other causes of acne too such as hormonal changes, emotional stress, period, and makeups. So, how to tell if it’s acne?
Acne Symptoms
The symptoms depend on how severe the skin condition is and how persistent it is. These may include:
- Swelling of skin and recurring red spots or known as pimples
- Clogged pores with blackheads or whiteheads in the center
- Inflamed lumps underneath the skin
- Presence of cysts or nodules filled with pus
How Is Acne Treated?
Inflamed acne may spread on the face, neck, shoulders, and portion of the back. Unfortunately, it may leave your skin with deep scars and dark marks. So, before these things happen, treat your acne the soonest time possible!
Consult a dermatologist to identify the type of acne you have. Over-the-counter medications are usually recommended for mild cases, and stronger prescription treatments may be advised for severe cases. Nevertheless, keep in mind that acne treatments can take weeks to a month before you see changes and its full effect.
How to Reduce Acne Swelling?
However the case of your acne, DON’T confuse your skin. Doing too many different ways of treating your acne can cause more harm than good.
Remember, we have different skin types. Some treatments may work on others, but it does not necessarily mean it will also work on you. But don’t cry either! There are ways to reduce acne swelling and here are the simple and basic steps.
Step 1: Clean your face with lukewarm water and a cleanser that’s soap-free and fragrance-free. Better to use a facial cleanser containing salicylic acid to eliminate dead skin cells.
Step 2: Apply astringent made in witch hazel to lessen redness, ease inflammation and relieve itchiness.
Step 3: Use ice cubes wrapped in a paper towel and gently dab it over the pimples for 5 to 10 minutes. This will lessen the swelling and inflammation of pimples.
Step 4: Apply a freshly used tea bag over the pimples, and hold it there for two to three minutes. In case you didn’t know, tea helps reduce the inflammation and redness of acne and pimples because of its high dose of antioxidants.
Step 5: Use a mild moisturizer onto the entire face before you do spot-treatment on swollen acne and pimples.
Step 6: Apply just a thin layer of Benzoyl Peroxide cream onto your stubborn acne and pimples to knock out those acne-causing bacteria. In case you start to feel a burning sensation, rinse it off with water immediately.
Step 7: Consult a dermatologist and ask what oral or topical medications will work on you. After all, they know better than the Internet. This will also depend on the severity of your acne. Taking proper medication is a must!
Skincare Tips for Acne-Prone Skin
As mentioned before, acne is a skin condition that doesn’t disappear after a few days. If you have acne-prone skin, then long-term care is needed to ensure healing until it’s totally gone. While you’re doing treatment on your acne, it doesn’t mean that you don’t need to do anything else.
So, here are the skin care tips that won’t surely harm your skin. Start committing yourself by doing the following every day.
- Don’t ever attempt to pop or squeeze your swollen acne. This will irritate your skin more and increase inflammation.
- Make it a habit to wash your face twice a day. Do this in the morning and the evening. Use a gentle facial wash or a gel-based cleanser. Warning: Use an acne cleanser only as directed by professionals.
- Don’t skip your cleansing routine. If you must, then skip only the harsh scrubs and use of rough towels. Although exfoliating your skin is good to soften and smoothen skin texture, doing it daily is not advisable.
- Moisturize your skin even if you have acne. If you have an oily skin type, then go for a gel-type or lightweight lotion moisturizer. Moisturizing skin is perfect for a combination of dry and oily skin.
- Wear an oil-free sunscreen daily. Sun exposure can trigger breakouts. It will protect your face too from sun damages such as wrinkles, freckles, and other skin blemishes.
- Eat healthily. It’s time to give up your favorite cookies and opt for fruits and leafy veggies which are high in antioxidants. Of course, drink lots of water.
Final Thoughts
Having acne may not look as dangerous as any other bodily conditions, but it may cause you serious skin problems when you don’t pay attention to it. If you are starting to see visible signs and symptoms of acne, then take action to heal it immediately!
Surely, there are different DIY and natural home remedies on the Internet, but it is no guarantee that it will work on all skin types. The best practice is to look for products with gentle and mild ingredients. Additionally, take time to learn basic skincare methods such as how to reduce acne swelling.
Following proper skin treatment is crucial. If you have severe acne condition, then you need proper medical treatment which may take time. Never give in to false quick-treatment schemes and claims. Seek professional help and be patient. Once you’ve healed, devote to develop better hygiene and skincare routine. Soon enough, your skin will feel fresh and look healthy.
