Dealing with papules can feel frustrating, especially when they seem to show up at the worst times. But don’t worry – if you’re dealing with these small, red bumps on your skin, I’ve got some helpful tips that can soothe inflammation and get your skin back on track.
Through this blog, we’ll discuss how to treat papules and prevent them from returning so you can feel confident in your skin again.
Before we dive into treatments, let’s clarify what papules are.
Papules are a form of acne that appears as small, red, raised bumps. They don’t have pus inside like some other types of acne, and they’re often caused by clogged pores, bacteria, and inflammation.
Unlike other types of acne, papules don’t contain pus, and squeezing them (as tempting as it may be) will only make things worse. So, hands off! We’ll talk about better ways to handle them, I promise.
Now that we know what papules are, let’s talk about the treatment. The good news is there are plenty of ways to soothe the inflammation and help your skin heal. Here are some of my favourite, tried-and-true methods:
You’ve probably heard this before, but it’s so important: cleanse your skin twice a day with a gentle, non-comedogenic (aka won’t clog your pores) cleanser. Look for one with ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide.
These powerhouses help unclog pores and reduce inflammation without being too harsh. Over-cleansing or using harsh scrubs can actually irritate your skin further, so be gentle!
This is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that helps exfoliate inside your pores, removing excess oil and dead skin cells.
This ingredient is known for its bacteria-killing abilities. It is especially useful if your papules are triggered by acne-causing bacteria.
A natural anti-inflammatory that’s been shown to reduce redness and irritation.
You don’t need to use harsh scrubs or over-cleanse. Stick with a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser, and always use lukewarm water to avoid drying out your skin.
Tip: When washing your face, use lukewarm water—not too hot, not too cold. Extreme temperatures can aggravate sensitive skin.
One of the best ways to reduce the redness and swelling of papules is to use anti-inflammatory ingredients.
Salicylic acid is great for exfoliating inside the pores, while benzoyl peroxide helps kill acne-causing bacteria. For a more natural route, try aloe vera or tea tree oil—both are known for their soothing properties.
It’s all about finding what works best for your skin type. If you’re unsure, a dermatologist can help tailor recommendations for your specific needs.
This ingredient helps reduce inflammation and improves skin texture, making it a good choice for calming papules.
A form of Vitamin A, retinoids promote skin cell turnover, helping to prevent clogged pores. However, they can be drying, so use them sparingly, especially if you have sensitive skin.
This is another great anti-inflammatory ingredient that can reduce swelling and redness while helping prevent future breakouts.
You can find these ingredients in over-the-counter spot treatments, serums, or prescription products from your dermatologist.
Inflamed skin needs moisture to heal. Opt for a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer that hydrates without clogging pores.
Look for products with hyaluronic acid or ceramides, which help repair the skin barrier and lock in moisture. The more hydrated your skin, the faster it can recover.
Hydration is key to healing papules and maintaining healthy skin. Use an oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturizer that hydrates without clogging your pores. Look for ingredients like:
A powerful hydrator that helps your skin retain moisture without making it greasy.
These help restore your skin’s natural barrier, which is important for healing and preventing irritation.
I know it’s tempting, but resist the urge to pick or pop your papules. Doing so can lead to scarring, push bacteria deeper into your skin, and cause further inflammation. Instead, stick to using spot treatments and give your skin time to heal.
If you find yourself touching your face often, try keeping a stress ball nearby or anything to keep your hands occupied. It might sound small, but it helps prevent accidental irritation.
Spot treatments can be a game-changer for stubborn papules. Sulfur-based treatments and clay masks help to draw out impurities and reduce the size of the bump.
Just remember to use them sparingly – a little goes a long way. And if you’re not sure which product is right for you, always patch-test a new product before applying it to your face.
For stubborn papules, adding a spot treatment can help speed up recovery. Try products with:
These products are great for when you need a little extra help in calming down a breakout.
Our skin is often a reflection of what’s going on inside our bodies. While topical treatments are essential, addressing underlying causes like hormonal imbalances, stress, and diet can make a big difference.
Try incorporating more anti-inflammatory foods into your diet, such as leafy greens, berries, and omega-3 fatty acids from fish or flaxseeds. And of course, hydration is key – aim for at least eight glasses of water a day!
Also, managing stress through meditation, exercise, or even just taking some time for yourself can help balance your body’s natural stress response, which often triggers acne. Consider using the following.
Incorporate foods like leafy greens, berries, and omega-3-rich foods (like salmon or flaxseeds) into your diet.
Drink plenty of water. Staying hydrated helps keep your skin’s barrier healthy, reducing inflammation and irritation.
Stress can worsen acne, so practicing relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation might benefit both your mental health and your skin.
By paying attention to what goes into your body, you can help reduce the risk of future papules.
Sometimes, despite our best efforts, papules can be stubborn. If your papules persist or worsen, it may be time to see a dermatologist for more targeted treatment. Prescription-strength creams or oral medications can work wonders for inflammatory acne that doesn’t respond to over-the-counter products.
If you’re struggling with sensitive skin, make sure to bring this up during your visit. Dermatologists can recommend a personalized treatment plan that won’t exacerbate your skin.
Wait, oral health? Yes! Sometimes, certain toothpaste or mouthwashes (especially those containing fluoride or harsh chemicals) can trigger breakouts around the mouth area.
If you’ve noticed papules in this region, it’s worth switching to a gentler, fluoride-free toothpaste to see if it helps.
Treating papules is one thing, but wouldn’t it be great if you could prevent them from showing up in the first place?
Here’s how to keep papules at bay with some simple skincare and lifestyle changes.
Consistency is key. Make sure you’re cleansing your skin twice a day, moisturizing, and using treatments as needed. Preventing clogged pores and keeping inflammation at bay is much easier when you have a good skincare routine in place.
Some skincare products can cause irritation and lead to more breakouts. Avoid alcohol-based toners, harsh scrubs, and any products that contain heavy oils, especially if you have acne-prone skin. Opt for fragrance-free products to reduce the risk of irritation.
It may come as a surprise, but some ingredients in your toothpaste or mouthwash can cause irritation around the mouth and chin area. Look out for fluoride and sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), which are common triggers. Switching to a fluoride-free toothpaste may help if you frequently experience papules around your mouth.
Your pillowcase can harbour bacteria, oils, and dead skin cells contributing to acne. Change your pillowcase at least once a week (more if your skin is very oily) to help prevent papules from forming while you sleep.
Sunscreen is an essential part of any skincare routine, especially if you’re treating acne. Look for a broad-spectrum, oil-free sunscreen to protect your skin from UV damage without clogging your pores.
Papules can be stubborn, but with the right care, you can reduce inflammation and even prevent future breakouts. Start with a consistent routine, stick to products that work for your skin type, and make small lifestyle adjustments for a long-term solution.
And remember, if you’re ever unsure about what’s right for your skin, don’t hesitate to consult a dermatologist. We can help create a personalized plan that works best for you.
Your skin is unique, and with a little patience and the right care, you’ll be well on your way to clearer, healthier skin.
