Don't Panic: 10 Solutions for the Most Common Skin Emergencies

Sometimes a little ice can take down the swelling, but Levin’s got a better solution. “It’s called the Triple Mask: 1% OTC cortisone mixed in equal parts benzoyl peroxide (I prefer 2.5%) and a 1-2% salicylic acid. It makes a little mask for the pimple. Put it on top and you’re good to go.”

The mask works in three ways: hydrocortisone calms the inflammation (it acts sort of like the cortisone shot you’d get if you saw your derm in the office with a giant pimple), the benzoyl peroxide works as an anti-inflammatory for the bacteria responsible for causing the pimple and the salicylic acid loosens up the dead skin cells clogging up that pore.

Making the mask is simple: 1% hydrocortisone cream can be purchased at any drugstore and Neutrogena has you covered: Neutrogena On the Spot Acne Treatment cream is a great 2.5% benzoyl peroxide solution and Neutrogena Acne Proofing Gel Cleanser contains 2.5% salicylic acid. Mix these three in equal parts, apply the mask to the affected area for up to 10 minutes (or leave on all day if it’s not obtrusive) rinse clean, move on.