How to Get Rid of a Pimple Overnight

The truth? Making a pimple disappear overnight is impossible. Most treatments take at least a few days, sometimes weeks, depending on how severe your breakout is. But don’t fret: there’s something you can do to reduce its size and redness. Just as importantly, there are a few things to avoid if you don’t want to wake up with an even bigger blemish or, worse, a scar.

Why Do Pimples Appear?

Pimples are one of the most common symptoms of acne, a condition that occurs when pores become clogged with excess oil (sebum), dead skin cells, and bacteria. When a clogged pore becomes inflamed, it can turn into a red, swollen bump.

Hormonal fluctuations are among the most common causes, which is why pimples often appear during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, or times of stress.

Genetics also play a role. If acne runs in your family, you may be more likely to experience it yourself.

Sweat, clothing friction, and frequently touching your face with dirty hands can also contribute. Some lifestyle choices, like smoking or eating spicy foods, have also been linked to acne. However, their actual impact remains inconclusive.

Some skincare and makeup products can also clog pores, especially if they contain comedogenic ingredients.

Quick Tip: To avoid comedogenic ingredients, you can check your skincare products with the OnSkin app. It’ll analyze your product’s formula and tell you whether it’s a safe choice for your skin type and concerns.

How to Get Rid of a Pimple (or at Least Reduce It ASAP)

The process that causes a pimple to appear starts days or even weeks before it becomes visible, which is why healing also takes time. The severity of the blemish also matters. While a small whitehead may clear up relatively quickly, a deeper pimple can linger for days or even weeks.

That said, you won’t be able to get rid of it overnight, but here’s what you can realistically try tonight:

Double-Cleanse

Simply put, double cleansing means washing your face twice: first with an oil-based cleanser to remove excess oil, makeup, and sunscreen, then with a water-based cleanser to get rid of dirt and sweat.

Important Note: If you have rosacea or eczema, it’s best to consult your dermatologist before you start double cleansing.

Use Over-the-Counter Ingredients Backed by Science

Here are a few ingredients to look for in skincare products:

• Salicylic acid: exfoliates the skin, unclogs pores, helps reduce acne-causing bacteria, and may improve post-acne marks
• Benzoyl peroxide: helps reduce acne-causing bacteria, unclog pores, and reduce swelling and redness
• Azelaic acid: helps calm inflammation, clear clogged pores, and improve post-acne marks
• Retinoids: boost skin renewal, help prevent clogged pores, and may improve post-acne spots
• Sulfur: absorbs excess oil, helps remove dead skin cells, and may reduce the growth of acne-causing bacteria
• Niacinamide: helps calm inflammation, regulate oil production, and strengthen the skin barrier

It’s best to consult a dermatologist before starting treatment. Some of these ingredients may cause serious side effects. For instance, experts recommend avoiding retinol (a type of retinoid) during pregnancy and while breastfeeding.

Try Pimple Patches

Skincare patches, whether designed for dark circles or pimples, are often marketed as quick fixes. And to some extent, that’s true. While pimple patches can deliver visible improvements after about six to eight hours, don’t expect them to make a zit magically disappear right away. What they can do is absorb excess fluid, protect the blemish from irritation, and reduce swelling, which supports the healing process. As a result, the pimple may look smaller and less noticeable.

Test Icing (But Don’t Rely on It Too Much)

Icing your skin may help reduce swelling and redness, but it’s only a temporary solution. It won’t unclog pores or fight acne-causing bacteria. In some cases, icing can even dry out your skin, damage tiny blood vessels near the surface, and trigger conditions like rosacea or eczema.

If you still want to try, do it carefully. Wrap an ice cube in a clean cloth and hold it against the affected area for no more than one or two minutes. Don’t forget to apply a moisturizer afterward to hydrate your skin.

Things to Avoid If You Want It Gone Faster

Don’t Apply Toothpaste to a Pimple

The idea that toothpaste can help with acne is a popular myth. Applying it to a pimple won’t make it heal faster and, in fact, may irritate the skin, damage the skin barrier, and even trigger dermatitis.

Don’t Pop Pimples

Popping a pimple might be tempting, but it isn’t worth it. It’s always an uneven exchange—instead of a temporary blemish, you may create a larger wound or even a permanent scar. If your hands aren’t clean, you may allow more bacteria to enter the area.

Don’t Scrub 

Scrubbing can irritate your skin and make breakouts worse. Gently wash your face using your fingertips and a mild cleanser instead.

Don’t Skip SPF

Some anti-acne ingredients may make your skin more sensitive to UV rays. That’s why daily sun protection is a must. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using a broad-spectrum SPF of 30 or higher. Also, opt for sunscreen labeled non-comedogenic.

Key Takeaways

Is it possible to get rid of a pimple overnight?

Unfortunately, no. The healing process can take several days or even weeks. However, you can still take steps to make a pimple less visible in a short period of time.

What exactly helps shrink a pimple fast?

A gentle skincare routine that includes products with salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, niacinamide, azelaic acid, and some other anti-acne ingredients. Pimple patches may also help make a pimple look smaller and less noticeable.

Should I consult a dermatologist before starting treatment?

It’s strongly recommended. Even over-the-counter acne treatments can cause side effects. To minimize the risk and choose the most suitable treatment for your skin, it’s best to consult a dermatologist.

Is it safe to pop a pimple?

It’s not. It can worsen inflammation, introduce more bacteria into the area, and increase the risk of scarring.

Can toothpaste help with pimples?

No. Toothpaste can irritate the skin, damage the skin barrier, and even trigger dermatitis.