Are you a pimple psychic?
Let me explain. I’m uncannily accurate when it comes to predicting the next big breakout, mere minutes before said blemish comes burbling to the surface.
And yet, there’s really no need to get frantic over freshly formed acne. For days when you just know something “spotty” this way comes, whip out your blemish-busting balms and try the following preemptive punch to zap your zits – before things take a turn for the ugly.
In keeping with the critical nature of this crisis of the complexion, let’s get straight to it, shall we. Click through the gallery slides for all the deets, and #GoodLuck!
Try: Innisfree Bija Trouble Spot Essence, $25
Shot through the heart
The area that’s about to bust out in a blemish will be pulsing painfully (and look the part, too!) That means the first order of business is to squelch the swelling that makes pimples so unpleasantly prominent.
Take it from my go-to skin doc: “An anti-inflammatory cortisone shot is the quickest way of treating new pimples,” advises dermatological doyenne Dr Karen Soh, medical director of Prive Clinic.
If injectables aren’t your thing, consider off-the-counter cortisone creams or targeted treatments instead – any respectable pharmacy or cosmetics counter ought to stock what you’re looking for. Simply slap on a generous glob onto the affected area and gently pat it in, wiping off any excess.
Try: IDS Acne Spot Treatment, $39.
Ice, ice baby
Next, calm any residual ruddiness in your complexion by cooling the “hotspot” as if you were icing an injured knee. Create a quick-and-dirty cold compress by bundling a couple of ice cubes in a wash towel.
Hold it against the blemish for about 30 seconds, then pat dry. The dip in temperature shrinks the skin’s blood vessels (say “vasoconstriction” if you want to impress your dermatologist), dialling back the blotchiness of the blemish. Bonus: This cool trick also takes care of puffiness, pores and such – essentially any and every cosmetic concern.
All that’s left to do is to follow up with a blemish-busting moisturiser to comfort your complexion and mattify your mien through the day. And you’re done! All ready to “face” the world in less than a minute, thereabouts. Sending all of you good skin vibes!
Try: Sisley Mattifying Moisturizing Skin Care with Tropical Resins, $160.
Text: Eugene Quek, Her World Plus / Additional reporting: Arissa Ha
READ MORE:
12 of the Best Concealers That Hide Pimples and Blemishes
The One Thing Which Could Be Causing Pimple Outbreaks
How To Get Rid Of Acne That Keeps Appearing In The Same Spot