As far as getting rid of pimples is concerned, there seems to be no shortage of traditional, time-honored methods. Remedies may vary from the almost valid to the totally bizarre.

The most preferred method seems to be to “pop” pimples. This may not cause too much harm in the case of isolated pustules (though the risk of permanent scarring will always exist) but it isn’t much of a solution with acne, where pimples multiply rapidly.

Probably the oldest-known method of pimple treatment is the use of sulphur preparations. These were thought to have had validity because they caused short-term abrasion of the skin and also acted as disinfectants. However, it was eventually found that pimples treated with sulphur-based preparations returned in increased numbers.

The most commonly used pimple-control agents today contain either benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. Both work by removing the obstructions that cause pimples, but also seem to be of no long-term benefit unless used in conjunction with other preparations.

Most dermatologists will advise preventive measures at the first signs of serious pimple infestations, and these must be maintained at every stage of treatment to prevent reoccurrence. Such measures include scrupulous skincare and internal hygiene and elimination of certain foods. Though the correlation between foodstuffs like milk products and fat-saturated items with acne is yet to be scientifically established, avoiding them does seem to reduce pimples in most cases.

Regularly cleaning pimple-beset skin with a good-quality deep-cleansing lotion can be nothing but beneficial and will definitely aid adjunctive treatment. But contrary to popular belief, astringents do more harm than good – though they do remove excessive superficial oils, they cause the very closing of pores that may have lead to the pimples in the first place.

If such measures are strictly employed and maintained, the application of a compound containing benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid or glycolic acid will generally obtain good results.