Blind Pimples: How to Get Rid of Them

Blind pimples develop far below your skin’s surface, making them more challenging to treat. They occur when oil and trapped dead skin cells create a nodule or inflamed cyst inside the pore. Unlike blackheads and whiteheads, they don’t have an obvious opening — but don’t be tempted to pop them. This can lead to scarring, so they require a gentler and more strategic approach.

Doctors call blind pimples “nodulocystic acne.” They’re most common in people with oily skin. When your sebaceous glands go into overdrive, your skin can’t shed dead skin cells efficiently. This often results in a cluster of blocked pores, papules, and cysts. Hormones, genetics, and poor hygiene can all make the problem worse.

When blind pimples are still forming, they may appear as tiny bumps. As they develop, you’ll likely feel pain or discomfort. If they don’t resolve on their own, the area can become increasingly inflamed and red.

Nodular acne tends to occur in areas with a higher concentration of sebaceous glands. The T-zone across the forehead, nose, and chin is prime territory for blind pimples. They can also develop across the back and chest, and the jawline is another common location.

Nodulocystic acne carries a serious risk of scarring, so it should always be treated carefully. Squeezing and popping only increase the risk of permanent marks. Avoid the following habits:

• Squeezing or popping your pimples.

• Using creams and masks that clog pores — instead, choose non-comedogenic cosmetics and moisturisers.

• Allowing stress and anxiety to go unchecked, as they can trigger cortisol surges and increase sebum production.

The more severe your lesion becomes, the more likely it is to scar. Squeezing can push oil and bacteria deeper into the skin, increasing infection risk. This can cause additional swelling and, eventually, acne scars.

A gentle yet effective skincare routine can improve all stages of nodular acne. Treating blind pimples requires patience and care.

• Apply a warm compress to the area: Soak a clean cloth in warm water, then press it gently to the nodule for 10 to 15 minutes. Repeat three or four times a day to help the bump resolve.

• Use targeted acne treatments: Salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide can help your skin shed dead skin cells more effectively. Salicylic acid is the gentler option, leaving skin softer and smoother.

• Try pimple patches or hydrocolloid bandages: These adhesive treatments absorb fluids from the pimple while keeping the area moist to promote quicker healing.

• Consult a dermatologist for persistent cases, particularly if your nodules fail to heal within a few weeks.

“Prevention is better than cure” is a cliché for good reason — it reduces the risk of scarring and infection. Since many blind pimples are linked to the hormonal changes of adolescence, women may benefit from hormone treatments. Stress is another common trigger, so while you can’t change your genetics, good emotional care often leads to clearer skin. A few adjustments to your skincare routine can make a difference: focus on gentle, regular cleansing and non-comedogenic makeup.

Vinopure acne prone skin treatments can elevate your skincare routine while encouraging your skin to shed pore-blocking cells. Caudalie Vinopure therapies are naturally sourced, vegan, and eco-friendly, so you can use them with confidence. With consistency and nature-inspired expertise, your routine can become your best defence against acne.

• Gel Facial Cleanser with Salicylic Acid: This gentle cleanser helps prevent blackheads and targets the bacteria that lead to inflammation. It penetrates pores to help skin shed dead cells that can cause congestion. Clean skin is less likely to develop whiteheads.

• Salicylic Acid Toner: Salicylic acid is a powerful way to help keep pores clear. This toner contains organic essential oils that can reduce acne-causing bacteria. Grape polyphenols and niacinamide gently restore your skin’s natural balance.

• Salicylic Acid Serum: This serum helps refine skin texture while reducing excess shine. It effectively targets all types of imperfections: excess sebum, enlarged pores, blackheads, papules and pustules. Its effectiveness has been clinically proven: 86% of users see a reduction in their spots in just 7 days*.

• Mattifying Moisturiser: This Vinopure favourite goes beyond simple hydration by mattifying the skin all day. It’s non-comedogenic and contains no irritating fragrances.

• Salicylic Spot Solution: When blind pimples appear, this targeted treatment helps reduce impurities and soothe irritation. This treatment reduces localised spots in just 4 hours**.