Pimples typically last between 3 to 7 days before they start to heal and go away on their own
. Mild pimples often clear up within this timeframe, while deeper or more severe pimples, such as blind pimples or cystic acne, can take longer—sometimes weeks to months—to fully resolve
. Details by pimple type and severity:
- Mild pimples (whiteheads, blackheads, small pustules): Usually clear within 3 to 7 days
- Blind pimples (deep, painful lumps without a head): With treatment, they can heal in 1-2 weeks; untreated, they may take months
- Cystic acne (large, inflamed, pus-filled bumps): Healing can take several weeks to over a month depending on size and severity
- Nodules (hard, deep bumps): May take several months to heal
Even after a pimple visibly heals, residual redness or dark spots (post- inflammatory hyperpigmentation or erythema) can linger for weeks to months before fading
. Healing process tips:
- Avoid popping or squeezing pimples to prevent infection and scarring
- Use appropriate spot treatments like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide to speed healing
- Protect skin from sun exposure to help fade pigmentation marks
In summary, while most pimples resolve within about a week, deeper or more severe acne lesions require longer healing times, often several weeks to months