Hello Doctor,
Recently, I had a pimple removed, and I've noticed some burns around the area where it was removed. I'm a bit worried and would like to seek your guidance on this matter. Could you please provide me with information about what could have caused these burns, what symptoms to look out for, and any home remedies or treatments you would recommend to alleviate the discomfort and promote healing? Your expertise would greatly help me understand how to manage this situation effectively.
Hello,
Thank you for reaching out to Dr. Galen. Please find the below response to your query.
As a dermatologist, I understand your concern about burns occurring after the removal of a pimple. Burns or irritations in such cases can indeed occur due to various reasons. Some common factors include overly aggressive popping of the pimple, the use of harsh acne treatments, or allergic reactions to skincare products. It's essential to recognize the symptoms associated with burns from pimple removal, which may include redness, swelling, pain, and in severe cases, blistering.
To address your concern and provide you with some relief, I recommend the following home care measures:
1. Gentle Cleansing: It's crucial to cleanse the affected area gently with a mild, non-irritating cleanser. Avoid scrubbing the area vigorously, as this can further aggravate the skin.
2. Cool Compress: Applying a cool, damp cloth to the affected area for about 15 minutes at a time can help soothe the skin and reduce inflammation.
3. Moisturization: Using a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic moisturizer on the affected area can provide relief. Look for products containing ingredients like aloe vera or hyaluronic acid, as they can help soothe and hydrate the skin.
4. Sun Protection: Protecting the affected area from sun exposure is essential, as burnt skin is more vulnerable to sun damage. I recommend wearing a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher when going outside.
5. Over-the-Counter Treatments: Topical ointments containing 1% hydrocortisone can be beneficial in reducing inflammation and soothing the skin.
If you notice that the burns are severe, persist for more than a few days, or are accompanied by other concerning symptoms such as fever or chills, I strongly advise seeking medical attention promptly.
In the future, to prevent such burns, it's essential to avoid attempting to pop pimples yourself. Consider seeking the assistance of a dermatologist or a trained aesthetician for proper treatment. Additionally, always remember to patch test new skincare products before applying them to your face, and adhere to the instructions provided for acne treatments.
I hope you find these recommendations helpful in managing your current situation. If you have any further questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out to me.
Thanks