There are various types of spots: the closed comedones, the open comedones (blackheads) , the papules (red inflammatory spots without pus), the pustules (presence of pus), the nodules (painful spots), the cysts (deep painful subcutaneous lesions). Sometimes unsightly, it is common for people prone to acne spots to seek ways to get rid of them quickly. Here are some tips in this regard.
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How to quickly get rid of a spot on the face?
Summary
- 1. Apply ice to the spot
- 2. Apply a treatment containing salicylic acid
- 3. Resorting to tea tree essential oil
- What about toothpaste?
- Sources
Published August 9, 2022,
updated on August 8, 2024,
by
Maylis, Chemical Engineer
—
8 min read
1. Apply ice to the spot.
The initial step to soothe a painful spot is to apply ice. Wrap a small amount of ice in a cloth and press it onto the inflamed area for 3 to 4 minutes. Repeat this process several times throughout the day to alleviate the skin and reduce swelling.
2. Apply a treatment containing salicylic acid.
Thesalicylic acid is abeta-hydroxy acid (B.H.A.) known for itskeratolytic action, thus promoting the removal of dead skin cells (desquamation).
It also possesses astringent, regenerative and antiseptic properties. The salicylic acid prevents the growth and proliferation of fungi, viruses and bacteria such as Cutibacterium acnes, a microorganism responsible for the inflammatory reactions of acne.
Its soothing virtues allow it to combat skin inflammation. Indeed, salicylic acid plays a role in the arachidonic acid cascade and inhibits the synthesis of prostaglandins E2, molecules responsible for inflammatory and painful effects.
Our local blemish serum is concentrated at 2% in salicylic acid. It is also enriched with zinc (1%), a sebum-regulating and antimicrobial trace element. It is applied locally, in small amounts. Generally, one drop is sufficient for a single spot. The first results will be observable after three days. We recommend applying this product only in the evening.
3. Resorting to tea tree essential oil.
Thetea tree essential oil is extracted from the leaves of the tree Melaleuca alternifolia, native to Australia. According to the I.N.C.I. classification, it is named as "Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Oil".
When it is present at a concentration of 1% or more in a skincare product, the tea tree essential oil has demonstrated excellent bactericidal properties. Thus, it helps to limit the proliferation of microorganisms involved in acne such as Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis. Moreover, it regulates sebum production and mattifies oily skin that tends to shine. This sebum-regulating action also helps to prevent pore blockage and therefore the appearance of blackheads.
A study has revealed that a gel containing 5% tea tree essential oil proved to be as effective in reducing spots as a lotion containing 5% benzoyl peroxide, a common acne medication. The use of tea tree essential oil also resulted in fewer side effects than benzoyl peroxide.
Nevertheless, it is important to note that tea tree essential oil is very potent and can cause redness and irritation when applied undiluted to the skin. For this reason, it should be diluted in a carrier oil.
How to use tea tree essential oil against spots?
Mix a drop of tea tree oil with a teaspoon of vegetable oil. Dip a cotton bud into the mixture and apply it directly onto the spots. Repeat this process 1 to 2 times per day, as needed.
What about toothpaste?
Many people advocate for theapplication of toothpaste directly onto acne spots. Indeed, this belief is based on the fact that toothpaste contains drying elements (such as alcohol, baking soda...) and antibacterial agents (previously, triclosan) in its formula.
However, toothpastes typically have a basic pH, unlike the skin which has an acidic pH. Therefore, thetopical application of toothpaste disrupts the skin's pH, which sensitises the skin. Furthermore, it is important to note that toothpastes have been formulated for oral use and not for topical application. The topical application of toothpaste could therefore be the cause of skin reactions, such as irritations or even allergies (contact dermatitis).
A study conducted by a dermatologist has indeed shown that the use of toothpaste in some women causes acne around the mouth.
The beneficial effects of toothpaste on acne spots have not been substantiated in any scientific literature. On the contrary, it could sensitise your skin and exacerbate the existing problem. Therefore, the use of toothpaste for acne spots is not recommended.
Note : An effective and natural method to dry out a spot is toapply a "dressing" ofgreen clay paste directly onto the spot and leave it on overnight.
Sources:
SAUNDERS M. A. Fluoride Toothpastes: A Cause of Acne-like Eruptions. Archives of Dermatological Research (1975).
BARNETSON R. S. & al. A comparative study of tea-tree oil versus benzoyl peroxide in the treatment of acne. The Medical Journal of Australia (1990).
CARSON C. F. & et al. Melaleuca alternifolia (tea tree) oil: a review of antimicrobial and other medicinal properties. Clinical Microbiology Reviews (2006).
HAMMER K. A. Treatment of acne with tea tree oil (melaleuca) products: A review of efficacy, tolerability and potential modes of action. Journal Of Antimicrobial Agents (2014).
ARIF T.Salicylic Acid as a Peeling Agent: A Comprehensive Review.Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology(2015).
VAN VUUREN S. & al. Commercial essential oils as potential antimicrobials to treat skin diseases. Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine (2017).
KOCA U. & al. Tea tree oil and its application in aromatherapy. Contemporary Views on Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (2018).
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