First, be kind to yourself—the urge is normal! Try simple tricks like putting a clean pimple patch over the breakout. Out of sight, out of mind, and it heals it. Keep your hands busy with a stress ball or fidget toy. If you find yourself scanning your skin in the mirror, set a timer for 30 seconds and then walk away. Remind yourself that touching it adds days to its life, and your future self will thank you for your patience.
The most important job is to clean your face without stripping it. Think of it like washing a delicate sweater—you want to get the dirt out without ruining the material. A good daily cleanser should remove makeup, oil, and grime, but leave your skin feeling soft and comfortable, not tight or squeaky. If your face feels dry or irritated right after washing, that cleanser is too harsh for daily use.
It’s very tempting, but please don’t! Even a “ready” pimple can be pushed deeper, causing more damage. If you absolutely must, see a professional esthetician for a safe extraction. For at home, after a warm shower, use clean cotton swabs to apply gentle pressure around it—never your nails. If it doesn’t release easily on the first try, stop immediately. Then, immediately apply a pimple patch to clean up the rest and protect the area.
Keep it simple and gentle! First, always wash your hands. Then, use lukewarm water and a small amount of a gentle cleanser. Use your fingertips—not a rough washcloth—to make little circles all over your face for about 30 seconds. Rinse thoroughly and pat your skin dry with a clean paper towel or your own towel. Avoid the harsh, drying soap from the gym dispenser; it can strip your skin and cause more problems.