How to Get Rid of Pimples for Kids
How to Get Rid of Pimples for Kids
Pimples are common during puberty. Learn how tweens and teens aged 9–16 can care for spots safely, what to avoid, and when simple skincare is not enough.
Short answer: You cannot always make a pimple disappear overnight. For tweens and teens aged 9–16, the best starting point is gentle, consistent skincare: cleanse without scrubbing, moisturize when needed, protect the skin from the sun, and avoid picking or squeezing spots. If breakouts are persistent, painful or severe, targeted acne treatment or professional advice may be needed.
Seeing a few pimples appear can be frustrating, especially when a young person wants them gone immediately. During puberty, hormonal changes can increase oil production and contribute to clogged pores and breakouts.
It can be tempting to scrub harder, dry out the skin or try several acne products at once. But more aggressive skincare is not automatically better. Irritating the skin can make it more uncomfortable and may make breakouts harder to manage.
At AMICI Cosmetics, we believe skincare for tweens and teens should start with the basics: Cleanse, Hydrate and Protect.
If you are new to skincare for young people, start with our complete skincare guide for tweens and teens aged 9–16 .
Why do kids and young teens get pimples?
Pimples are often linked to the hormonal changes that happen during puberty. Hormones can stimulate the skin’s oil glands, increasing oil production. When oil and dead skin cells build up inside a pore, the pore can become clogged and a breakout may develop.
Having pimples does not mean that a young person has dirty skin or is doing something wrong. Acne and breakouts are common during adolescence and can happen even when someone takes good care of their skin.
Read more: Why Do Kids and Young Teens Get Acne?
How to deal with pimples safely
Cleanse gently
Use a gentle cleanser to remove oil, sweat and everyday impurities. Avoid harsh scrubbing, rough cloths and very hot water. Cleansing should leave the skin comfortable rather than tight or burning.
Keep the skin comfortable
Acne-prone skin can still need moisturizer. If the skin feels dry or irritated, a suitable moisturizer can help maintain hydration and comfort. For acne-prone skin, look for formulations described as oil-free or non-comedogenic where appropriate.
Use sun protection
Broad-spectrum sunscreen helps protect skin from UV exposure. SPF 30 or higher is a commonly recommended level when spending time outdoors. A non-comedogenic option may be useful for acne-prone skin.
Do not pick or squeeze
Picking, squeezing or repeatedly touching pimples can increase irritation and may increase the risk of marks or scarring. Keeping hands away from the face is one of the simplest habits that can help.
A simple daily routine for pimples
There is no need to build a complicated acne routine around every individual pimple. For many tweens and teens, a simple daily routine provides a sensible foundation.
Morning: gentle cleanse if needed, moisturizer when appropriate, and broad-spectrum sunscreen.
Evening: gently cleanse the skin and use moisturizer when needed.
Every day: avoid picking, squeezing and harsh scrubbing.
For a more detailed routine, read our best skincare routine for acne-prone tweens and teens .
What should kids NOT do when they have pimples?
Trying to make a pimple disappear quickly can lead to habits that irritate the skin. The goal should be to care for the skin rather than attack the breakout.
- do not pop or squeeze pimples
- do not scrub the skin aggressively
- do not wash the face repeatedly throughout the day
- do not use toothpaste as a spot treatment
- do not combine several strong acne products at once
- do not use adult anti-aging skincare simply because it is trending
- do not constantly switch products looking for an overnight solution
The American Academy of Dermatology specifically recommends avoiding habits such as scrubbing, picking and squeezing acne. Read the AAD’s acne skincare advice →
You can also read: Common Skincare Mistakes for Kids and Young Teens .
Can you get rid of a pimple overnight?
Usually, there is no guaranteed way to make a pimple disappear overnight. Individual spots can take time to settle, and repeatedly touching or squeezing them can make the situation worse.
Instead of looking for a quick cosmetic fix, focus on a consistent routine and avoid irritating the skin. If breakouts keep appearing, the issue may be acne rather than an isolated pimple and may require a different approach.
When should kids use acne treatment?
A few occasional pimples do not necessarily require a dedicated acne treatment. However, persistent or recurring acne may need more than basic cosmetic skincare.
Evidence-based acne treatments can include ingredients such as benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, azelaic acid and topical retinoids, depending on the person’s age, skin and type of acne. These are treatments for acne rather than ingredients that every young person should automatically add to their skincare routine. Read the American Academy of Dermatology acne guidelines →
For parents: Before introducing an acne treatment, check the age guidance for the specific product and follow the directions carefully. Some acne treatments can cause dryness, redness, peeling or irritation.
If you are unsure which treatment is appropriate, speak with a pharmacist, doctor or dermatologist.
Read our more detailed guide: How to Treat Acne for Kids Safely .
When should a child or teenager see a doctor?
A few pimples are common during puberty. But persistent or significant acne should not simply be treated by adding more cosmetic products.
Consider seeking professional advice when:
- breakouts are persistent or getting worse
- spots are painful or deep
- acne is leaving scars or persistent marks
- acne is affecting confidence or wellbeing
- appropriate over-the-counter care is not helping
More severe acne may need medical treatment to reduce the risk of scarring. Read NHS guidance on acne treatment →
FAQ: How to Get Rid of Pimples for Kids
How can I get rid of my child’s pimples?
There is no guaranteed overnight solution. Start with gentle, consistent skincare, avoid picking and squeezing, and consider professional advice if pimples are persistent, painful or severe.
Can kids pop pimples?
It is better not to. Picking and squeezing can increase irritation and may increase the risk of marks or scarring.
Does washing your face get rid of pimples?
Gentle cleansing can remove excess oil, sweat and impurities, but washing alone does not cure acne. Washing too aggressively or too often can irritate the skin.
Should kids use toothpaste on pimples?
No. Toothpaste is not designed as an acne treatment and can irritate the skin. Use skincare or acne treatments that are specifically intended for the skin instead.
What helps pimples go away faster?
The right approach depends on the type and severity of the breakout. Avoiding irritation, not picking spots and following an appropriate skincare routine can help support the skin. Persistent acne may need targeted treatment.
Do pimples mean a child has bad hygiene?
No. Pimples and acne are often related to hormonal and biological changes during puberty. Having spots does not mean that a young person has dirty skin or poor hygiene.
When should a teenager with pimples see a dermatologist?
Consider professional advice when acne is persistent, painful, severe, scarring or not improving with appropriate care.
Conclusion
Pimples are a normal part of growing up for many tweens and teens. There is no need to panic or attack the skin with lots of products.
For ages 9–16, start with the basics: Cleanse, Hydrate and Protect. Avoid picking, squeezing and harsh scrubbing, and give the skin time to respond.
If breakouts become persistent, painful, severe or start causing scars, it is time to look beyond cosmetic skincare and seek appropriate professional advice.
Sources & further reading
American Academy of Dermatology — Updated guidelines for acne management →
American Academy of Dermatology — Acne: 10 skin care habits that can worsen acne →
This article is for general educational purposes and does not replace individual medical advice. If a young person has persistent, painful or severe acne, or is at risk of scarring, consult a qualified healthcare professional.