First thing’s first: the best way to stop a bleeding pimple is to not pop it in the first place. Most people know you’re not supposed to pop pimples, because not only does this lead to scarring, but it may also cause more breakouts as the bacteria inside can spread to different parts of your face.

But just because it’s bad for you doesn’t mean you won’t do it. If you’re overcome with the urge to pop a face demon, you need to know how to stop a bleeding pimple and prevent it from developing into an ickier problem.

Apply Hydrogen Peroxide

If you really want to know how to stop a pimple from bleeding, hydrogen peroxide is the ticket. Soak a clean washcloth or tissue in hydrogen peroxide and apply it gently yet firmly to the bleeding pimple. The pressure will encourage the blood to clot, and the hydrogen peroxide will kill any remaining bacteria, preventing the possible spread of an outbreak.

Cool It Off

Cold decreases blood flow. Apply an ice pack to the troubled spot if the bleeding hasn’t stopped yet. Hold the ice there for 10 to 15 minutes until the bleeding subsides. Now that’s how you stop a pimple from bleeding.

Treat It

Astringent can both slow the bleeding and tighten your skin. If you don’t have any astringent products in your house, you can also utilize simple household vinegar from your kitchen. Soak a cotton swab or tissue in the solution and press it firmly against the blood source.

Another antidote against a bleeding pimple is benzoyl. Dab a benzoyl-soaked Q-tip or towel against the problem area. This will both help the bleeding to stop and prevent the spreading of bacteria.

Get Salty

Most folks wondering how to stop a bleeding pimple would shy away from pouring salt into a wound, but salt water can help make a popped pimple heal quicker. Add a teaspoon of salt to a quarter cup of warm water and mix well. Use a cotton ball to apply the salt water to your popped zit.

While it may be a bit uncomfortable, the solution is super effective.

Styptic Pencil

These antiseptic tools help to stop bleeding from small cuts and scratches. The styptic pencil gently coats the area with alum or silver nitrate, stemming the blood flow almost immediately. You can purchase these tools at your local pharmacy or online.

Aloe Vera

Aloe is a popular skin treatment due to its healing and restorative characteristics. To get rid of the redness, dab some aloe pulp or gel directly to the wound. For best results on how to stop a bleeding pimple, apply regularly until the pimple is fully healed. Find more aloe vera skin hacks here.

Honey

Not only is it delicious, but honey can drastically reduce redness caused by picking at a pimple. It also is a natural skin moisturizer that will keep your face smooth and hydrated. Once applied, the honey will not dry out, so wash it off after 20 to 30 minutes.

When To Call The Doc

If the bleeding has not stopped within a couple of days, and you find yourself looking in the mirror saying, “I can’t figure out how to stop a bleeding pimple,” you may have a more serious medical condition that needs to be addressed. Get a hold of your doctor for an appointment.

Do you have any tips or tricks on how to stop a bleeding pimple? Sound off in the comments with your recommendations for how to stop a pimple from bleeding.

You Might Also Like: Best Toners for Acne Prone Skin, Most Popular Moisturizers for Acne-Prone Skin, How to Fade Acne Scars