

#Cystic acne hot or cold compress skin
If your skin is not sensitive or prone to dryness, invest in a deep cleansing mask and apply it to blemish prone areas to keep spots at bay. “Try a one per cent hydrocortisone cream, which contains a low dose of steroids that can help to shrink the spot and ease redness,” adds Dr Shetty. If the blemish becomes red or painful you may need a stronger option. If all other options fail or you have a big event the following day, Dr Shetty suggests using antibacterial benzoyl peroxide, as it acts quickly to eradicate acne-causing bacteria within the pores.“Dab a thin layer of benzoyl peroxide directly onto the spot, just before bedtime to prevent it from getting worse, but use this ingredient sparingly and with caution as it can cause dryness and peeling,” she says. “It is a great anti-inflammatory ingredient, which is able to penetrate the pores, calm redness, reduce swelling, it also kills bacteria and exfoliates the skin’s surface to speed up healing,” shares Dr Murad. Dr Murad recommends spot treating emerging pimples with salicylic acid. Leave the compress on your skin for 15 to 20 minutes each time. Using the wrong active ingredients can leave the spot looking dry, irritated and difficult to conceal. Apply a warm compress at least 3 to 4 times a day. But, if the spot has already developed and is ready to burst, apply a warm compress to consolidate the pus,” she adds. “Hold this onto the skin for a few minutes, every few hours. “Use an ice cube wrapped in a clean cloth to to help reduce inflammation,” advises Dr Shetty. If the bump is swollen, using a cold compress can constrict the blood vessels helping to reduce the size of the spot.

This will dry out excess sebum and calm redness,” he adds.

“Then apply an astringent toner containing witch hazel, precisely to the oil prone and affected areas of skin. “The oil breaks down sebum and helps flush out blocked pores, while keeping a healthy balance of hydration,” he explains. He recommends a gel to oil based cleanser that emulsifies with water.
