How to Treat Pustule Acne

Acne can appear in many forms, including pustules. According to MayoClinic.com, pustules are painful, red bumps that contain white pus at the head. These unpleasant pimples occur when the oil that normally travels up a hair shaft becomes blocked beneath the skin along with dead skin cells. This blockage causes the follicle to bulge, resulting in a pustule. Because acne can be painful and embarrassing, it is important to understand ways to treat it.

Wash your face using warm water and a mild facial cleanser. According to the KidsHealth website this will help remove any oil buildup, which can cause acne. Be sure not to irritate your skin by scrubbing at it with a washcloth—instead use your fingertips.

Apply an acne cream or lotion that contains sulfur, lactic acid, salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide to dry up extra oil and encourage skin sloughing. Or, MayoClinic.com suggests speaking to a dermatologist about prescription topical treatments such as tretinoin or tazarotene.

Refrain from picking or squeezing your pustules. Doing so may cause scarring, spread bacteria or even lead to infection. Consult a dermatologist if you require aggressive treatment. He can safely drain your pustule or prescribe a medication to dry it up.

Apply facial products that are noncomedogenic, oil-free or nonacnegenic, meaning they will not clog your pores and cause additional acne. This includes sunscreen, cosmetics and moisturizers.