Unlike their obvious counterparts, blackheads and whiteheads, blind pimples can be difficult to find. Here’s how to identify and treat a blind pimple for clear skin that makes you feel confident.
What Is a Blind Pimple?
A blind pimple develops beneath the surface of the skin. They’re difficult to spot and treat and don't come to a head like other pimples.
These pimples are caused by clogged pores, excess oil, and bacteria trapped deep within the skin. When the skin produces too much oil, it mixes with dead skin cells and forms a plug that blocks the pore.
Subtle Signs of a Blind Pimple
Even if you can’t see bling pimples clearly, several signs will indicate their presence. Here are some tricks to spot these imperfections.
Deep Under the Skin
Blind pimples form deep beneath the skin's surface. You might only notice a slight bump or redness on the surface of your skin. The real problem lies much deeper.
No Visible “Head”
Blind pimples are difficult to detect because of the lack of a visible head. Most pimples usually come to a point, forming a white or yellowish spot that indicates pus formation. However, blind pimples stay hidden. Methods of treatment like popping or squeezing are nearly impossible.
The absence of a head means that the pimple is trapped deep within the skin. Attempting to pop it can worsen the situation, leading to further infection and inflammation.
Inflammation or Swelling
The body's immune system responds to an infection by sending white blood cells to the affected area. This results in inflammation and swelling that makes the pimple appear larger and more noticeable from increased blood flow. Even if the pimple is not visible on the surface, you can sense the infection under the skin.
Tender To the Touch
One of the most frustrating aspects of blind pimples is their tenderness. These pimples can be incredibly sensitive to touch, making everyday activities uncomfortable. Whether you're washing your face, applying makeup, or resting your cheek on your hand, a blind pimple can cause constant discomfort.
The tenderness is due to inflammation and pressure beneath the skin. This sensitivity can last for several days or even weeks, depending on the severity of the pimple.
Slow To Heal
Another frustrating aspect of blind pimples is the lengthy healing process. Average whitehead pimples clear up in a few days, but blind pimples can linger for weeks or months. Remain patient as the deep-seated infection settles down.
Tips for Treating Blind Pimples
Avoid picking or squeezing the pimple while waiting for it to heal. Instead, rely on a comprehensive skincare routine that expedites the healing process.
Apply a Warm Compress
The heat of applying a warm compress increases blood circulation to the affected area and accelerates healing. Simply soak a clean cloth in warm water, squeeze out the excess water to prevent dripping, and then gently press the cloth against the pimple. Hold it there for about 10-15 minutes. You can repeat this process several times a day to help reduce the swelling and alleviate pain.
Use Products With Benzoyl Peroxide
Benzoyl peroxide works by penetrating the skin to reduce inflammation and eliminate bacteria that cause acne breakouts. It also has a mild exfoliating effect that clears away dead skin cells.
Consistent application can bring blind pimples to a head. Eventually, you’ll have a manageable pimple with minimized discomfort and a less apparent appearance.
Remember that a few applications of benzoyl peroxide won’t resolve the issue. It takes regular application over several weeks to effectively reduce acne-causing bacteria and inflammation under the skin.
Some popular forms of benzoyl peroxide treatments include creams, gels, cleansers, and spot treatments. You have plenty of methods at your disposal for eliminating painful blind pimples.
Incorporate Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid is another effective ingredient for managing blind pimples. This beta hydroxy acid works by penetrating deep into the pores, exfoliating from within, and helping to dissolve the debris that clogs them. By removing these blockages, salicylic acid helps prevent new breakouts while promoting a clearer complexion.
Use Both Salicylic Acid and Benzoyl Peroxide
When combating blind pimples, use salicylic acid in tandem with benzoyl peroxide. Each ingredient has unique properties that complement one another, providing a comprehensive approach to acne treatment.
Morning Routine – Salicylic Acid
Begin your day using salicylic acid. This will help clear out your pores, removing excess oil and dead skin cells accumulated overnight. Applying salicylic acid in the morning ensures your skin is prepped and ready to combat potential breakouts throughout the day.
Nighttime Routine – Benzoyl Peroxide
In the evening, switch to a benzoyl peroxide product after cleansing your face. It functions without interruptions to relieve deep-seated pimples while you sleep.
Try Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil possesses antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. With this ingredient present in your skincare routine, you can tackle blind pimple redness and swelling.
Use a Pimple Patch
Pimple patches are small adhesive patches infused with hydrocolloids that draw out impurities and speed up healing. Placing a pimple patch over a blind pimple can provide targeted treatment while protecting the area from bacteria and picking.
Pimple patches are also discreet, so you can use them anytime during the day or night. They’re an effective way to continuously treat bothersome blind pimples.
Apply a Retinoid
Retinoids are another potent tool in the fight against blind pimples. These vitamin A derivatives promote cell turnover. Applying a retinoid cream or gel can help speed up the healing process and prevent future breakouts.
Wash Your Face Using an Acne-Safe Cleanser
An acne-safe face wash will keep your skin fresh and prepped for all of the acne-fighting ingredients in your skincare routine. Jil Goorman Beauty is a skincare brand designed as a comprehensive acne remedy. We offer a benzoyl peroxide wash that deeply cleanses the pores and regulates oil production.
After identifying a blind pimple, choose Jil Goorman Beauty to treat these imperfections. Our long list of high-quality acne-safe cleansers, non-comedogenic moisturizers, and retinoids will support you in your journey to clear skin.
