How to Get Rid of Red Pimples Fast

Acne is a skin condition that causes red pimples. Pimples can occur in a variety of locations, including the face, back, neck and chest area. Acne is caused by many factors, such as bacteria on the skin, overactive oil glands and hormones. Acne treatments work by reducing inflammation, minimizing bacteria and reducing the production of oil. To rid your skin of pimples quickly, it's important to treat existing acne and to prevent new acne from forming.

Step 1

Request steroid injections from your dermatologist. Deep red pimples can take weeks to heal. A steroid injection allows them to heal more quickly. Typically, your pimples should heal within two to four days, according to MayoClinic.com.

Step 2

Use topical treatments with the right effective ingredients. Ingredients that heal blemishes most effectively include sulfur, resorcinol, lactic acid, salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide, according to MayoClinic.com. If over-the-counter products aren't doing the trick, contact your dermatologist and schedule a visit. She can offer stronger topical treatments, such as Retin-A, Tazorac or Avage. These products are derived from vitamin A, which encourages faster cell turnover and unplugs hair follicles.

Step 3

Monitor medication side effects. If you experience redness, irritation or other side effects, consult your dermatologist. He may decrease the frequency of use or recommend discontinuing use of the product.

Step 4

Select a preventative treatment. A preventative acne medication treats existing acne and stops new pimples from forming. If your skin does not respond well to topical treatments, ask your doctor about antibiotics. These oral medications work by minimizing inflammation in the skin and preventing new bacteria growth. For deep acne cysts, your dermatologist may recommend the strong acne medication Accutane.

Step 5

Avoid picking or popping red pimples. People often pick at acne, hoping to expedite the healing process. Picking and popping acne may cause inflammation, infection and prolong the healing process for acne lesions. You can also cause acne scarring.

Tip

Despite popular myths, greasy foods and chocolate do not cause acne, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. However, touching your face after eating these foods may clog pores.

Warning

Cosmetics can assist in covering up red pimples during the healing process; however, choose cosmetics carefully. Products should be oil-free with non-comedogenic labels. Also, shield your forehead when spraying hair products, which may cause acne flare-ups.