Wash your hands before touching the area
Gently cleanse the skin with a mild cleanser and lukewarm water
Pat the area dry with a clean towel
Apply a small amount of petroleum jelly or a thin layer of antibiotic ointment if needed
Cover with a clean hydrocolloid pimple patch or sterile bandage
Avoid picking, squeezing, or rubbing the spot
Use a cold compress for a few minutes if it is swollen or painful
Apply over-the-counter benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid only if the skin is not open or irritated
Keep the area moisturized with a non-comedogenic product
Use sunscreen on the area during the day
Change the bandage or patch daily
Watch for redness, warmth, worsening pain, pus, or swelling
Seek medical care if signs of infection appear or if it does not improve