Are you dealing with those annoying pimples that swell, turn red, and develop a noticeable white or yellow pus head? You are probably facing pustules. These pus filled pimples are quite common, especially for those with acne-prone skin, but they can also arise from various skin issues. So, what are pustules exactly? Why do they occur? And, most importantly, how can you safely and effectively get rid of them? Is there any effective pustules pimple treatment available?

What is a pustule?

Pustules are small, inflamed acne lesions that form on the skin and are filled with pus—a thick fluid mainly composed of dead white blood cells, bacteria, and other cellular debris. These types of acne occur from moderate to severe and may form on any part of the body, especially on the face, particularly on the nose, cheeks, chin, and jawline. Unlike blackheads and whiteheads, which are non-inflammatory types of acne, pustules are inflammatory. They typically appear red and swollen, often with a noticeable white or yellow tip at the center due to the accumulation of pus.

Generally, they are not serious health issues but can be frustrating and painful.

Key Differences: Pustules vs. Other Pimples

Pustules are often confused with other types of pimples, like papules or cysts. Here are some key differences that help you tell pustules apart from other acne lesions:

• Whiteheads: These are closed comedones that stay beneath the skin’s surface without showing inflammation or redness.
• Papules: These are red inflamed spots that lack pus and are usually smaller than pustules.
• Cysts: These are deep, painful, and often larger lesions filled with pus, found beneath the skin’s surface.

Pustules typically appear on the face, back, shoulders, and chest—areas that have a high concentration of sebaceous glands.

Must Read: Cystic Pimples: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment and Clear Skin Solutions

Common Causes of Pustules

Pustules are often linked with acne, especially in moderate-to-severe cases. As acne becomes more severe, these pus filled pimples can become more, indicating the inflammation happening beneath the skin. However, pustules can also be caused by various other conditions and factors beyond acne. Let’s take a look at the different potential causes of pustules:

• Infections: Pustules on the face can be caused by bacterial infections like folliculitis, viral conditions (herpes, chickenpox), parasitic infections (scabies), and fungal infections (candidiasis).
• Skin disorders: Skin conditions like pustular psoriasis, acne rosacea, and contact dermatitis can also result in these inflamed pus filled pimples.
• Medications: Certain medications, especially corticosteroids and lithium, may trigger pustules on the face as a side effect.
• Food Allergies: Severe food allergies can lead to skin reactions that include pustules.
• Insect Bites: Some venomous insect bites cause painful, pus filled pimples as the skin reacts to venom.
• Poor skincare and hygiene habits: Inadequate cleansing can result in the accumulation of oils, dead skin cells, and bacteria on the skin, potentially clogging pores and causing pustules.

Signs and Symptoms of Pustules

They are easy to spot because of their unique features:

• Raised bumps: These are small, round raised red bumps with inflammation.
• Pus filled center: These pimples come with a noticeable white or yellow head at the center.
• Tenderness: Pustules can be sensitive or painful to the touch.
• Swelling: Pustules can also swell around due to inflammation.
• Itching: In rare cases, pustules may also cause itching.

If the inflammation is significant and painful, or if the skin around it feels sensitive, it is always recommended to consult a dermatologist for immediate relief. If you experience any of the below symptoms along with the above signs of pus filled pimples, doctor consultation is necessary to determine the underlying health issue.

• Fever
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Cold Skin
• Vomiting

How to get rid of pustules: Safe and Effective Pustules Pimples Treatment?

Now that you understand the causes and symptoms of these pimples with white pus, let’s look into safe and effective pustule pimples treatment that can help you clear them up and prevent future breakouts. If you have the urge to pop your pus filled pimples to relieve pain and eliminate the pus, please stop doing it, as it can lead to more breakouts and scarring. Here are some effective pustules pimple treatment options available at Evenly Clinic.

Over-the-counter medications:

There are a few over-the-counter medications to address these pus filled pimples on the face, such as benzoyl peroxide, which kills bacteria and reduces inflammation, and salicylic acid, which helps to unclog pores and exfoliate the skin. However, it is always suggested to consult a dermatologist for safe and effective treatment. As per the severity and tenderness, they can customise the treatment plan and recommend the best treatment using advanced procedures.

Prescription medicines

To address the painful pustules on the face, our dermatologist at Evenly Clinic may also recommend some topical retinoids, salicylic acid, or oral antibiotics to prevent future breakouts and dissolve excess oil and dead skin cells. 

Oral medications

Our dermatologists may also prescribe oral antibiotics and contraceptives if the pustules are severe or persistent. Oral antibiotics reduce inflammation and bacteria buildup in the skin, whereas oral contraceptives help regulate hormones and reduce sebum production in women with hormone-related acne.

Chemical Peels

Professional treatments, such as chemical peels, will be recommended to exfoliate and renew the skin’s surface, removing the dead skin cells and helping to prevent clogged pores that can lead to pus filled pimples. We use specific plant-based extracts to perform this controlled exfoliation of the skin. Salicylic acid chemical peel is an effective peel to treat pus filled pustules. These treatments should always be performed by licensed dermatologists, like those at Evenly Skin and Hair Clinic, to ensure safe and effective results.

Must Read: Chemical Peel for Pimples: Benefits, Treatment & Side Effects

Comedone Extraction

Comedone extraction is a targeted extraction technique for safely removing the pus formed on the pustule pimple. It is performed in a sterilized environment using a piece of specialised equipment. It eliminates the pus and reduces the inflammation.

Avoid using home remedies and self-extraction, as it not only reduces the effectiveness of the results you want but also irritates the skin and worsens your skin condition.

Before and After Images of Pustules pimples treatment

Look out the below gallery of our client’s before and after images and witness the results she gained after taking an effective treatment for her pimples with white pus.

How to prevent pustules (pimples with white pus): Best Practices for Clearer Skin

Here are some of the proven tips to prevent and reduce the occurrence of pimples with white pus:

• Maintain a consistent skincare routine by washing your face daily using non-comedogenic products and ensuring to use a clean and washed towel.
• Avoid using harsh soaps and scrubs that irritate the skin.
• To keep your pores unclogged, exfoliate your facial skin 1-2 times a week; this helps remove dead skin cells.
• Avoid touching your face, as it can increase the chances of transferring bacteria and oils that contribute to pustules on face formation.
• Avoid high-glycemic foods that worsen your acne and prefer taking skin-friendly foods rich in antioxidants and vitamins.
• Drink sufficient amounts of water to keep your skin and body hydrated; it works as a natural detoxification.

Is it safe to pop pustules? Risks and precautions

Even though it might be tempting to pop pus-filled pimples, doing so can lead to scarring, infection, and increased inflammation. Instead, consult a dermatologist for effective pustules pimples treatment.

When to consult a dermatologist for pustules

If you have persistent or painful pustules, it is important to consult a dermatologist. At Evenly Skin and Hair Clinic, we focus on personalised acne treatments that specifically target pustules and help prevent future breakouts. Our treatments are specially designed to effectively tackle all types of acne.

Why choose Evenly Clinic for Acne or Pustules Pimple Treatment?

• Experienced dermatologists with extensive experience in diagnosing and treating all types of acne, including pimples with white pus.
• Advanced pus filled pimples treatment options for safe and effective treatment.
• USFDA-approved equipment and techniques.
• Personalised treatment plans with thorough consultation.
• Patient-centric care with proven results.
• 98% satisfaction rate with 100,000 happy customers.

If you want to manage your pustules pimples and improve your skin health, schedule a consultation today at Evenly Clinic.

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Frequently Asked Questions

We hope this information is helpful. If you have any skin and hair-related questions or would like to discuss personalized solutions, please reach out to us at 7337899030. Our team of specialists is committed to delivering personalized care tailored to your specific needs. Take the first step towards a healthier, more confident you by scheduling a consultation with us today. Your journey to vibrant skin and stronger hair begins here