Got a Painful, Under-the-Skin Pimple? Here’s How to Treat It Fast

Waking up to a deep, painful pimple that seems to appear out of nowhere? You’re not alone! These hard, under-the-skin pimples (often cystic acne) can be inflamed, sore, and stubborn, making them difficult to treat. Unlike surface-level pimples, they form deep within the skin, meaning popping them is a big no-no—it only makes things worse!

So, what’s the best way to get rid of a deep pimple at home? At Dermala, we believe in science-backed, microbiome-friendly skincare to help you heal breakouts safely and effectively. Here’s how to treat deep, painful pimples at home without damaging your skin.

1. Don’t Pop or Squeeze—Seriously!

🔥 Why You Should NEVER Pop a Deep Pimple

It’s tempting, but squeezing a deep cystic pimple only pushes bacteria and oil deeper into the skin, increasing swelling, redness, and potential scarring. Instead of trying to pop it, use the steps below to let it heal properly.

💡 Related Read: Learn why picking your pimples makes acne worse here.

2. Apply a Warm Compress

♨️ How Heat Helps Reduce Pimple Swelling

A warm compress can help bring deep pimples to a head naturally, reducing pain and inflammation.

✅ How to do it:

• Soak a clean washcloth in warm (not hot) water.
• Hold it against the pimple for 10–15 minutes, 2–3 times a day.
• Repeat as needed until the pimple starts to heal.

3. Use the Right Treatment

🎯 Best Acne Treatments for Deep, Painful Pimples

Rather than using harsh, drying treatments, go for anti-inflammatory, microbiome-friendly ingredients that target acne-causing bacteria:

✔️ Salicylic Acid – Exfoliates dead skin cells, unclogs pores, and kills acne-causing bacter
✔️ Sulfur – Absorbs oil and reduces inflammation.
✔️ Tea Tree Oil – A natural antibacterial alternative.

Try This: 🌿 Dermala SCANTILY Pad® Acne Treatment – A microbiome-friendly, targeted formula designed to calm redness, reduce swelling, and prevent further breakouts.

4. Apply Ice for Quick Relief

❄️ How to Reduce Inflammation Fast

If your deep pimple is swollen and painful, icing it can help reduce redness and discomfort.

✅ Wrap an ice cube in a clean cloth and apply it to the area for 5–10 minutes.
✅ Repeat twice a day for quick relief.

5. Hydrate & Moisturize to Support Healing

💧 Why Hydration is Key for Acne-Prone Skin

Keeping your skin hydrated helps it heal faster. Use a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer with:

✔️ Niacinamide – Reduces redness and strengthens the skin barrier.
✔️ Ceramides – Keep skin hydrated without clogging pores.

💙 Try This: Dermala OAT So Sweet Daily Moisturizer – Hydrates and soothes irritated skin while preventing clogged pores.

💡 Related Read: Learn how to build an acne-safe skincare routine here.

6. Fight Acne from the Inside Out

🦠 Probiotics & DIM Supplements for Acne – A Science-Backed Solution

Did you know your gut microbiome plays a huge role in your skin health? Taking probiotics and DIM for acne can help balance bacteria and reduce inflammation from the inside out.

✨ Dermala DIM Supplement for Acne – Supports hormonal balance, reducing deep, cystic acne caused by hormonal fluctuations.
✨ Dermala Probiotic Supplement for Acne – Helps control breakouts by balancing good bacteria in your gut.

💡 Related Read: Studies show that probiotics can help reduce acne by improving gut health and lowering inflammation - read about it here. Learn more about DIM and probiotics for acne here and here.

7. Be Patient & Let It Heal Naturally

⏳ How Long Does It Take for a Deep Pimple to Go Away?

Deep, cystic pimples take time to heal. If it’s not going away or getting worse, consult a dermatologist for additional treatments like cortisone injections or prescription medication.

Final Thoughts: How to Prevent Deep Pimples in the Future

While treating a painful, under-the-skin pimple is important, prevention is the real game-changer.

✅ Stick to a microbiome-friendly skincare routine with acne-fighting ingredients.
✅ Use a gentle cleanser to keep pores clear.
✅ Incorporate probiotics & DIM supplements to balance your skin from the inside out.
✅ Avoid touching your face to prevent bacteria transfer.

🚀 Want clearer, healthier skin? Check out Dermala’s award-winning, science-backed acne solutions!

👉 Shop Now & Say Goodbye to Breakouts!