A pimple is a swollen elevation on the skin caused by bacteria in a clogged pore. Some causes of clogging include sweat, makeup, and certain face creams. If you have the occasional pimple outbreak, you may want to know how to get rid of a pimple fast.

The first step to get rid of a pimple is to implement a skin-cleansing regimen. Wash your face every day with a simple bar of soap. Soaps like Ivory Soap Bars 3 Pack, $1.49, at Walgreens, are good facial-cleansing soaps. Wash your hands first, and then wash your face using your hands or a very soft cleansing cloth to keep from irritating the skin further. Rinse your skin with lukewarm water. Very hot or cold water just irritates the skin further. Pat your face dry with a clean towel.


Once you've implemented your skin regimen, pimples can still creep up on you. There are home remedies you can try before turning to over the counter or prescription medication for acne. Tea tree oil has antibacterial properties that may help to get rid of a pimple fast. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, in a study comparing the effectiveness of using tea tree oil versus a prescription medication, both groups experienced improvement in their acne. Simply dab a small amount of tea tree oil on the pimple and let the natural properties go to work. Some people experience mild irritation to full-strength tea tree oil, but you can dilute it with water before applying it to your skin.

Another natural remedy you can try to help get rid of a pimple is to apply a dot of plain white toothpaste to the area before going to bed. When you rinse off the toothpaste in the morning, you should see significantly less swelling.

Try to avoid popping the pimple, no matter how tempting it may be. Stubborn, continuous breakouts may need professional help. You should seek the advice of your dermatologist for the best course of action.