Pimples always manage to show up at the worst possible moment. A big presentation or a hot date will usually result in a breakout and can leave you feeling depressed and self-conscious. Thankfully, there are many home remedies that can dry-up a pimple in no time. Many of the remedies on the following list are regular household items that you may already have in your home. If not, they can easily be purchased from a supermarket or pharmacy. However, you should definitely consult your doctor or dermatologist before trying any of these tips.

Eye drops

Eye drops constrict the blood vessels helping to reduce swelling and redness almost instantly. Take a clean cotton bud, and dip it into the eye drop solution. Apply directly to the pimple, and leave on for 10 minutes before rinsing away with cold water. Repeat the treatment every two hours or so until you begin to notice a difference.

Garlic

Garlic has antibacterial properties that fight infection in the pores. It is also a natural anti-inflammatory and will help to ease the swelling and redness that comes with a bad pimple. Cut a clove of garlic in half, and then rub it gently over the affected area. Leave on for at least half an hour before rinsing the skin with clean water.

Toothpaste

Before going to bed at night, apply a dab of toothpaste directly to the pimple. Allow the toothpaste to dry before letting it come into contact with your pillow. Wash off the toothpaste in the morning, and you will see a noticeable reduction in the swelling. Only use white toothpaste rather than the gel kind. This is suitable for individual spot treatments only and should never be applied to the entire face.

Turmeric

Turmeric is an exotic golden spice that many women in India use as part of their everyday beauty routine. Make a paste from one teaspoon of turmeric and one teaspoon of either honey or olive oil. Apply the mixture directly to pimples, and leave for ten minutes. Wash off with soap and water. Try not to leave the mixture on too long as it can stain the skin.

Tea Tree Oil

Tea Tree Oil is a natural antiseptic and antibacterial that fights the bacteria that lead to spots and blackheads. Take a clean cotton bud, and apply a few drops of tea tree oil to one end. Soak the pimple in tea tree oil, and leave on for as long as possible for best results. If you experience a burning or stinging, rinse off with water and try diluting the tea tree oil in purified water first.

Hot Compress

If you have the time, steaming your face using a facial sauna or pot of hot water is a great way to open your pores and remove dirt, oil and bacteria. Otherwise, a hot compress applied directly to the pimple will work just as well. Dip a clean face cloth in hot water, and hold it against the pimple for five minutes. Wash your face immediately after, and finish with a splash of cold water.

Benzyl Peroxide

Benzyl peroxide is ideal for stubborn cases of acne that occur on the face, neck, back and chest. Purchase some benzyl peroxide from your local pharmacy in a concentration of no more than 2.5% and consult your dermatologist whether you can use it or not. Apply the solution to a clean piece of cotton, and gently wipe over acne sores. Leave for a few moments, and then rinse thoroughly with clean water. Never apply benzyl peroxide to the delicate eye area. Discontinue use immediately if you notice any redness or irritation.

Witch Hazel

Witch Hazel is a natural astringent that gently soothes, tones and cleanses the skin of dirt and bacteria. Many conventional acne treatments even contain extracts of witch hazel, but these can often be expensive. Purchase a bottle of pure witch hazel extract from your local pharmacy. After cleansing your face, use it as an astringent by applying to clean cotton and wiping over the skin to tighten pores.

Lemon Juice

Lemon juice is a wonderful treatment for chronic acne as it is far less drying than conventional acne products. Take a slice of fresh lemon, and rub it over problem areas taking care not to get the juice into your eyes. Leave for 10 minutes, and then rinse with cold water. Alternatively, you could make a paste with lemon juice and baking soda, and apply it to individual pimples as an overnight treatment.

Honey

The healing effects of honey have been proven in medical trials. It has powerful antibacterial properties when applied topically. Apply a dab of honey to the affected area, and leave for 15 minutes. Rinse off with warm water before applying an oil-free moisturizer. Always use raw, organic honey as pasteurization kills the natural enzymes and vitamins contained within the honey.

Topical treatments are great ways to reduce the appearance of existing pimples, but taking care of your overall health is the best way to prevent them from occurring in the first place. Incorporate plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables into your diet, and drink at least eight glasses of water a day. Try not to touch your face during the day as this transfers bacteria from your hands directly into your pores leading to breakouts.