Overview

Acne is an inflammatory skin condition that leads to breakouts of pimples. Excessive amounts of oil prevent dead skin cells from shedding, which then accumulate and clog pores. These clogged pores can become red and inflamed, and they allow acne-causing anaerobic bacteria to grow, leading to more inflammation and redness. Acne can be aggravating, and eliminating it altogether can be a battle, but fortunately, you can temporarily reduce acne redness.

Step 1

Wash your skin once or twice a day with a mild facial cleanser that is water-based rather than oil-based. Avoid scrubbing, and don't use facial masks or harsh or drying soaps.

Step 2

Apply a tea tree oil gel to reduce acne redness. You can make a gel with a high-quality 100 percent tea tree oil combined with 100 percent aloe vera gel. Add 1/2 tsp. of tea tree oil to 10 tsp. of aloe vera gel, mix thoroughly and apply it with your fingers to any problem spots after you wash your face. Store the gel in the refrigerator. A study published in an October 1990 issue of the "Medical Journal of Australia" found that a 5 percent tea tree oil gel significantly reduces the number of inflamed acne lesions.

Step 3

Ask your doctor for a topical niacinamide gel prescription. The University of Maryland Medical Center cites a study in which applying a 4 percent niacinamide gel to skin twice daily for two months significantly improved acne symptoms. Niacinamide reduces both inflammation and oily skin.

Step 4

Use ice for a quick fix. Wrap an ice cube in a clean cotton cloth and apply it directly to the pimple for up to three minutes. Do not leave it on longer, because the cold can irritate your skin. Apply a drop or two of any eye drop solution to the pimple and allow it to dry. This should reduce acne redness for at least a couple of hours, and you can repeat as necessary.