Peter Piper picked a peck of pimpled peppers. If Peter Piper picked a peck of pimpled peppers, how many pimples did Peter Piper pick? Too many pimples! Pimple-picking can cause painful pits. A reader asked what to do about the painful picked pimples she picked on her pretty pelt and Amanda answered with the following:
Dear Susan:
Your question how to heal a blemish quickly that you have picked at is multifaceted. I think it is important to first identify why an individual picks at his/her skin; anxiety, boredom, habit, or an attempt to control emotions.
Once you have determined if picking is frequent or an isolated incident you can determine how to treat the issue. Picking at a blemish can result in a number of problems. It is possible that no further damage will result, but there are risks of infection, scarring, and discoloration as the skin heals. Avoid products that will cause further irritation; including alcohol, astringents, and facial scrubs.
Use a gentle cleanser. Over-the-counter products, including Cetaphil, Aveeno, and Neutrogena, are dermatologist recommended and an easy first step to healing. Cleanse your face and neck twice daily. Avoid touching the skin. Picking, scrubbing, and/or rubbing the area(s) increases your risk for infection, scars, and discoloration.
Avoid excessive sun exposure. Excessive sun exposure is more likely to cause a burn, and if you are taking antibiotics or a topical prescribed by a dermatologist, odds are you will be more sensitive to the sun.
Choose cosmetics wisely. Many foundations, powder, and concealer can clog pores. Choose makeup that is oil free and noncomedogenic. You can also apply acne spot treatment creams to the area twice daily. Most important, do not pick at the blemish.
I hope this information is useful, if you have any questions, or would like to speak with me directly, please feel free to contact me.
Amanda Schmicker is an accomplished Healthcare Industry Professional with extensive experience in diverse areas of mental and behavioral health and cosmetic dermatology. Her education includes a Master's Degree in Business Administration, undergraduate studies in Human Services and Criminal Justice, and practical nursing.
She also is a cosmetic nurse specialist with excellent leadership abilities concerning healthcare and nursing team initiatives, and is instrumental in providing exceptional level of care to diverse clientele. Amanda has a broad knowledge base relating to cosmetic treatment options and benefits to each individual client.
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