# Introduction

Old grandmother's remedy, the application of toothpaste on the pimples is still one of the most used DIY methods in the attempt to counteract and eliminate these annoying imperfections.

In this regard, the web is full of DIY articles and recipes, which propose the use of this very special method to solve - according to many, quickly and definitively - the problem of pimples of all kinds (from the classics closed comedones, up to the pimples under the skin).
Probably, the success of the remedy of toothpaste on the pimples comes from the fact that this product is cheap and easily available, so affordable for everyone.

# Why it's used

## Why do you apply Toothpaste on Pimples?

According to the proponents of this unlikely technique, the application of toothpaste on the pimples would serve to dry these annoying imperfections, making them "deflate" and defusing the affected area of ​​skin, thus freeing the skin from the presence of comedones.
The schools of thought on how this method should be performed are different: there are those who recommend applying the toothpaste on the pimples and leave it in place until it has dried up and who, instead, claims that the product should be left to act all night to be effective.
At this point, however, the question arises: does the toothpaste on the pimples work?

# Effectiveness

## The Toothpaste on pimples is an effective remedy?

Unfortunately, many people's hopes will be broken by the answer to the aforementioned question. In fact, the toothpaste on the pimples is NOT an effective remedy, indeed, it is a practice highly discouraged by doctors and dermatologists.
The application of toothpaste on the skin, in fact, is not able to bring any benefit, on the contrary, it can give rise to irritations and adverse reactions like redness, itching, burning and, in the worst case, erythema.
This is because the substances inside the toothpaste are suitable for correct oral hygiene, but - if applied to the skin - can be irritating, or worse, give rise to real skin rashes.
On the other hand, it is true that the toothpaste is able to dry the skin on which it is applied, but this does not absolutely mean that this action is reflected on the pimple eliminating it. On the contrary, the dryness and irritation caused by the substances contained in toothpaste can further worsen the condition of a skin already inflamed and put to the test by pimples and acne.

## Effective Treatments and Remedies

In the light of what has been said so far, it is clear that the use of toothpaste on the pimples, whatever it may be said, is a remedy that is as ineffective as it is unsafe to use.
In case of pimples or acne, in fact, it is necessary to resort to the use of specific products, specially designed to be applied to the skin and - depending on the case - with antibacterial, exfoliating, keratolytic or anti-inflammatory activity.
Before resorting to any treatment, however, it is good to contact the doctor or dermatologist, who will tell the patient what products - or, possibly, drugs - use to defeat the disorder.
In addition, we must not forget that the skin affected by pimples also needs adequate hydration, which must never be lacking, even in the presence of acne or particularly oily skin. This fact further confirms the ineffectiveness of toothpaste on the pimples.
In addition to the drugs for pimples and acne that require a prescription to be purchased, there are also various prescription drugs on the market and self-medicating drugs specially formulated and specifically designed for the treatment of these disorders.
Alternatively, it is possible to resort to the help of natural remedies like the essential oil of melaleuca (Tea Tree Oil), the essential oil of lavender, the essential oil of rosemary or the essential oil of bergamot.
Finally, for the treatment of acne and pimples may be useful - with the advice of your dermatologist - the use of dermo-aesthetic treatments, such as chemical peels.
Certainly, the products and treatments mentioned above have a much higher cost compared to the remedy of toothpaste on the pimples, but, at the same time, unlike the latter have two fundamental characteristics: real effectiveness and safety of use (if properly used) .