Hydrocortisone cream can reduce inflammation and redness associated with a pimple, but it may not necessarily shrink the pimple itself.
For further information, read below
Hydrocortisone cream is a common over-the-counter treatment for various skin conditions, including pimples. It contains a low dose of a steroid hormone called hydrocortisone, which has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce redness, swelling, and itching. However, its effectiveness in shrinking a pimple is not guaranteed.
According to Dr. Joshua Zeichner, the director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City, “Hydrocortisone creams can certainly improve the appearance of a pimple by reducing inflammation, but they will not help to resolve the underlying infection.” In other words, hydrocortisone cream can make the pimple look less angry and more flat, but it cannot make it go away completely.
Furthermore, using hydrocortisone creams on pimples can have side effects, especially if used excessively or on sensitive skin. Dr. Zeichner warns that “prolonged use of topical steroids on the face can lead to skin thinning, redness, and acne flares.” Therefore, it is recommended to use hydrocortisone cream as directed and only when necessary.
In conclusion, while hydrocortisone cream can be a helpful adjunct to treating pimples, it should not be relied upon as the sole treatment. Other measures, such as gentle cleansing, spot treatments with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, and avoiding picking or squeezing pimples, can also be effective in preventing and treating acne. Remember the wise words of Dr. Katie Beleznay, a Vancouver-based dermatologist: “Acne is not a reflection of your self-worth, and treating it can take patience as well as persistence.”
Table: Tips for treating pimples
| Tip | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Cleanse gently | Use a mild, non-comedogenic cleanser to wash your face twice a day to remove excess oil, dirt, and makeup. Avoid scrubbing or using harsh soaps that can irritate the skin. |
| Spot treat with OTC products | Look for spot treatments that contain benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, which can unclog pores, kill bacteria, and reduce inflammation. Apply only on the affected area, not the whole face. |
| Avoid picking or squeezing | Resist the urge to pop pimples, as it can introduce more bacteria and cause scarring. If you must touch your face, wash your hands first and use a clean tissue or cotton swab. |
| Moisturize and protect | Use a non-comedogenic moisturizer to hydrate your skin and create a barrier against environmental damage. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to prevent UV-induced breakouts. |
| Seek professional help | If your acne is severe or persistent, or if you have scarring or discoloration, consult a dermatologist for personalized treatment options. Don’t suffer in silence! |
Quote: “Never let anyone dull your sparkle, including a pimple.” – Author Unknown.
See more answers
Topical hydrocortisone is not a conventional acne treatment. It has no effect on acne-causing bacteria, so it cannot prevent breakouts. However, it could help improve the appearance of inflammatory acne.
Response video to “Will hydrocortisone cream shrink a pimple?”
Dr. Deborah Jaliman explains that swelling from acne is caused by inflammatory cells that come out of the bloodstream. To reduce swelling, she recommends using cool compresses and anti-inflammatory creams like aloe vera gel and hydrocortisone cream. If the inflammation is severe and not responding to treatment, consulting a board-certified dermatologist is recommended as they may suggest injecting hydrocortisone to make the inflammation go away within a day or so.
Related facts
Also people ask
Likewise, What happens if you put hydrocortisone on a pimple?
Topical hydrocortisone cream can effectively reduce the swelling, redness, and discomfort associated with stubborn, under the skin pimples. Generally, hydrocortisone cream is applied directly to an active pimple, where it reduces the overall inflammation of the blemish.
Does hydrocortisone reduce pimple size?
The answer is: All clogged pores have the ability to evolve into the red, swollen inflammation that people call pimples. If this happens, hydrocortisone can reduce the swelling and redness.
How do you shrink a cystic pimple overnight? How to Shrink Your Cystic Pimple Overnight
- Use an Acne Patch. Hydrocolloid acne patches are an easy way to reduce inflammation and reduce the size of a cystic pimple overnight.
- Apply an Ice Treatment.
- Use an Acne Facewash.
- Apply Aspirin to the Affected Area.
- Don’t Pick It.
- Thoroughly Clean the Area.
- Try Topical Spot Treatment.
Consequently, How do you shrink a pimple under the skin? Applying ice: Wrap an ice cube or cool pack in a cloth and apply to the pimple for 5–10 minutes. Take a 10 minute break and repeat. Applying a topical treatment: Use a product that contains 2% benzoyl peroxide. Benzoyl peroxide is antibacterial and is available in over-the-counter (OTC) acne treatments.
Likewise, Will hydrocortisone help heal my pimple scars?
Response: However, it is not clear whether hydrocortisone can minimize acne scars, specifically. A small 2017 study suggests that a similar synthetic corticosteroid called methylprednisolone may help prevent postsurgical scarring. The study compared two different treatments: a cream containing methylprednisolone and a topical silicone gel.
Moreover, Does hydrocortisone effectively treat acne and pimples?
Topical hydrocortisone works much higher up in the skin. It is not a treatment for acne or acne cysts. In general, this category of products, especially its higher potency topicals, can carry side effect of skin thinning.
Keeping this in consideration, Does hydrocortisone cream lighten your skin?
Response will be: Hydrocortisone cream. Treat yourit won’t dry out or irritate your skin (which can endhydroquinone is a v powerful bleaching ingredient for lightening hyperpigmentation, and can be