How to Get Rid of Redness from Pimples and Acne: Effective Tips and Treatments

One of the most frustrating aspects of dealing with acne and pimples isn’t just the breakouts themselves—it’s the redness and inflammation that often linger long after the pimple has disappeared. This redness, caused by inflammation and the body’s natural healing response, can take weeks to fade, leaving you feeling self-conscious about your skin. As a dermatologist, I can tell you that while redness from pimples and acne is common, there are effective ways to speed up the healing process and soothe your skin.

In this blog, we’ll explore the causes of acne redness, the best treatments to reduce it, and some simple skincare tips to prevent irritation and promote a calm, clear complexion.

Why Does Acne Cause Redness?

Acne-induced redness happens when a pimple or breakout becomes inflamed. The skin's immune system reacts to the clogged pores and bacteria by sending more blood to the affected area, causing the skin to appear red and swollen. The severity of the redness can vary depending on the type of acne you have—whether it’s a pimple, cyst, or pustule—but the process is generally the same.

The redness usually indicates that the body is trying to heal itself, but it can sometimes persist even after the pimple has cleared up. Post-inflammatory erythema (PIE) refers to the redness left behind after acne lesions heal, while post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) results in dark spots, which are a different concern but can follow the same timeline.

Also read: What’s the Difference Between Acne and Pimples? A Dermatologist’s Guide

How to Reduce Redness from Pimples and Acne

Here are some expert-backed tips and treatments to help you reduce redness and calm inflamed skin after breakouts:

1. Use a Soothing, Anti-Inflammatory Skincare Routine

A gentle skincare routine can help calm redness and prevent further irritation. Focus on products that reduce inflammation, calm irritation, and promote healing without aggravating acne.

1. Gentle Cleansers: Use a mild, non-stripping cleanser that won’t dry out your skin or exacerbate redness.
2. Recommended: CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser, Neutrogena Hydro Boost Cleanser
3. Soothing Ingredients: Look for ingredients like aloe vera, green tea extract, and chamomile, which are known to soothe the skin and reduce inflammation.
4. Recommended: Avene Antirougeurs Redness Relief Soothing Cream, La Roche-Posay Toleriane Ultra Soothing Care

2. Try Calming Topical Treatments

Certain topical treatments can target the redness specifically, helping to calm inflammation and speed up the healing process.

1. Niacinamide: This powerhouse ingredient helps reduce inflammation, calm redness, and strengthen the skin barrier.
2. Recommended: The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%, Paula’s Choice 10% Niacinamide Booster
3. Azelaic Acid: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, azelaic acid can help reduce redness while also addressing acne.
4. Recommended: The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%, Finacea Gel
5. Hydrocortisone Cream: For severe inflammation, a mild hydrocortisone cream can help reduce redness temporarily. However, avoid using it too frequently, as long-term use can thin the skin.

3. Incorporate Redness-Reducing Face Masks

Face masks can be a great way to provide an extra layer of calming and healing. Look for masks that specifically target redness or inflammation.

1. Clay Masks: While clay masks are often used for acne control, they can also help soothe inflamed skin by absorbing excess oil without causing irritation.
2. Recommended: Innisfree Super Volcanic Pore Clay Mask 2X, Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay
3. Soothing Sheet Masks: Sheet masks containing ingredients like aloe vera, centella asiatica, and tea tree oil can quickly hydrate and calm redness.
4. Recommended: Dr. Jart+ Cicapair Tiger Grass Re.Pair Serum, Skinfood Aloe Vera Soothing Gel Mask

4. Apply Sunscreen Daily

Sun exposure can make redness worse, especially if you’re using acne treatments that can increase skin sensitivity, such as benzoyl peroxide or retinoids. Sunscreen helps protect your skin from harmful UV rays and prevents further irritation or redness from worsening.

Make sure to use a broad-spectrum, non-comedogenic sunscreen that is gentle on your skin.

1. Recommended: EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46, Neutrogena Clear Face Sunscreen SPF 55

5. Use Cold Compresses

For localized redness, a cold compress can help reduce inflammation and soothe your skin. Simply wrap an ice pack in a clean towel and apply it to the affected area for 10-15 minutes. The cold can constrict blood vessels, decreasing the redness and swelling temporarily.

6. Avoid Picking at Pimples

It can be tempting to pick at or pop pimples, but doing so can lead to more severe redness, scarring, and even infection. Picking disrupts the healing process and often makes redness last longer. Let the pimple heal naturally with the right treatments.

Also read: Acne-Prone Skin? Here’s How to Identify It and Create the Perfect Skincare Routine

Long-Term Solutions for Reducing Redness from Acne

While immediate treatments are helpful for soothing redness, it’s important to focus on long-term solutions to prevent future breakouts and irritation.

1. Follow a Consistent Skincare Routine: Cleansing, treating with active ingredients like salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or retinoids, and moisturizing with a non-comedogenic product will help keep acne at bay and prevent further redness.
2. Consult a Dermatologist: If you have persistent redness or severe acne, seeing a dermatologist can provide more targeted solutions. They may recommend prescription treatments, chemical peels, or laser therapy for persistent redness or scarring.

Final Thoughts

Redness from pimples and acne is a frustrating, yet common, side effect of acne. With the right combination of soothing treatments, anti-inflammatory ingredients, and careful skincare, you can reduce redness and calm inflamed skin, helping you achieve a clearer, more even complexion.

Remember, consistency is key. Stick to a gentle skincare routine, and avoid picking at your pimples. If the redness persists or becomes more severe, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Your skin deserves the care it needs to heal and look its best.