The truth about blind pimples

When it comes to beauty maintenance, there’s no doubt about it – you put your body through a world of pain. Think: waxing, tweezing, laser hair removal treatments… the list goes on.

Let’s face it – it hurts to feel good. But sometimes along comes the kind of pain that you didn’t choose to have, and that actually makes you feel miserable. Cue a red-hot blind pimple, pulsating away smack-bang in the middle of your chin. Ouch. Other common places to get blind pimples include in the ear and nose. 

We chat to Dr Li-Chuen Wong, Consultant dermatologist at Sydney Skin, about blind pimples and why the heck they’re so damn painful!

What is a blind pimple?

A blind pimple is a painful lump deep within the skin that has no opening or head.

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How does a blind pimple form?

Blind pimples develop when our oil glands get blocked with excess sebum, leading to an inflammatory reaction. This then creates a painful deep red lump that often results in scarring.

What causes a blind pimple?

The use of thick foundations, make-up, moisturisers and sunscreens can lead to the development of blind pimples. Squeezing blackheads and whiteheads can also cause these painful lesions, and they can also develop just before your period due to hormonal changes.

bh product tip: To avoid blind pimples, during the day wear a lightweight foundation such as Lycogel Breathable Camouflage, and at night, try an oil-free moisturiser like Aveeno Active Naturals Positively Radiant Intensive Night Cream to let your skin breathe.

Why do blind pimples hurt more than regular pimples?

Blind pimples can be painful because they are very inflamed. As there is no opening or head to them, the pus cannot be released to the surface so pressure builds up within the pimple, causing pain.

What are the best ways to treat a blind pimple?

Never try to squeeze a blind pimple as it will only worsen the surrounding inflammation and lead to long-term scarring. As soon as a blind pimple develops, apply an anti-inflammatory topical antibiotic, like Eryacne or ClindaTech. If these are applied a few times a day, their anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties will help heal the pimple more quickly. Using products containing salicylic acid can also help.

bh product tip: Morning and night, cleanse your skin with a product containing salicylic acid such as Olay Deep Cleansing Acne Control Face Wash, and then calm redness and inflammation with a spot treatment such as Yes to Tomatoes Acne Spot Stick.

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Do you ever get blind pimples? How do you treat your blind pimples?