How Long Do Pimples Last? How to Identify a Treatment Plan Based on the Zit

How Long Does Every Type of Pimple Last

Whiteheads

Whiteheads can be clarified by their name. Unlike the average zit, whiteheads will not appear bright red or irritated. These bumps are usually tiny and don’t hurt when you have them. “When these finally open and are exposed to the air, they can turn into blackheads once our skin oil (sebum) is exposed to air and oxidized,” explains Dr. Greeney. “These can stay on your skin for weeks but don't often produce scarring.”

If you have whiteheads present, Dr. Greeney says the treatment key is to prevent the blockages occurring in your skin cells. Applying adapalene nightly (a type of topical retinoid) is one of his go-to recommended treatments. When paired with a salicylic acid gel cleanser, like KATE SOMERVILLE® EradiKate Clarifying Blemish Gel Cleanser, they will help slough off dead skin cells and clear up excess oil in the skin to prevent future blockages, according to Dr. Greeney. 

Papules

Papules are small pink bumps that aren’t quite a pustule, though Dr. Greeney says they can transform into one over time. They might also be itchy and can be tender and can last anywhere from a few days to weeks. Hydrocolloid pimple patches (like ZITSTICKA Surface Zit Hydrocolloid Patch) as well as retinoids (we love MURAD Retinol Youth Renewal Night Cream for retinoid beginners!) can help prevent papules from turning into pustules, and can help eliminate them altogether in just a few days. 

Pustules

Pustules are similar to whiteheads, according to Dr. Greeney, however, they will appear slightly more irritated and will contain pus. Pustules are essentially the next severity level up from whiteheads and papules. 

“Pustules tend to come and go,” says Dr. Greeney. “Some resolve over just a few days, but others can last up to two weeks.” For pustules, he recommends hydrocolloid patches as your first sign of defense. “The best thing you can do is quickly apply a hydrocolloid patch at the first sign of a pustule,” he says, since they “draw out inflammatory fluid like a sponge, helping [them] heal faster. As a bonus, patches will also help keep you from picking at or touching the zit, which can make it further irritated. Make sure to use a gentle cleanser to keep future bacteria at bay. 

Nodules/Cysts

Nodulocystic acne is one of the most severe forms of acne, says Dr. Greeney. “These are deep, painful bumps underneath the skin. Sometimes, people refer to them as blind pimples because they don't seem to have an opening to the surface, and inflammation and buildup occur deep beneath the skin,” he says. 

Unfortunately, these types of acne lesions can last for weeks or even months on the skin, and scarring is a major concern if these are present. If you’re unsure, Dr. Greeney says that dermatologists can help evaluate and treat this type of acne to get you on a regimen that stops oil production and bacteria buildup. In some cases, prescription treatments may be necessary. 

“Since this is the worst type of acne, you have to hit it with everything you got,” says Dr. Greeney. “I would use both a benzoyl peroxide cleanser to reduce bacteria [and] consider rotating with a great salicylic acid cleanser, such as RODIAL Pink Diamond Salicylic Acid Gel Cleanser, to prevent pore blockages,” he says. From there, use an adapalene treatment at bedtime. “However, after three to four months, if your skin isn't getting better, get to a dermatologist,” he says. 

Final Thoughts

Different types of pimples will vary in severity, and the guide above is a helpful place to start when determining if you can treat your pimples at home. A good rule of thumb comes from Dr. Greeney’s advice above. If your acne has persisted without improvement for over three to four months, a dermatologist might be needed to help you target the problem with further treatments or prescription creams.