It’s hard to resist squeezing a juicy pimple. You probably want to get rid of it quickly, and you may feel like you know exactly how to do it after watching hundreds of pimple videos online. Dermatologists are tempted, but they say you should leave your pimples alone.
“As a general rule, you shouldn’t pop pimples,” says Dr. Jody Alpert Levine, a dermatologist and director of dermatology at New York Plastic Surgery and Dermatology.
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Pimples form when excess oil, bacteria and dirt clog hair follicles. When trapped follicles get under the skin and form a white bump, they are called pimples. Blackheads are clogged follicles that reach the surface of the skin and open; exposure to air turns its contents black.
Whatever the color, squeezing, popping, or picking at pimples to release the pore-clogging gunk can disrupt the healing process and cause a range of problems, from scarring to infection, says Levine.
Still, she recognizes that people break out their pimples from time to time. While it’s best to treat acne under the guidance of a dermatologist, Levine says she often teaches her patients the proper technique for extracting blemishes.
Popping painful, unsightly blemishes may not seem like a big deal. Dermatologists explain the risks, some tips for getting rid of pimples and what to do if acne is a persistent problem.
The risks of popping a pimple
Popping pimples traumatizes the skin around them, says Dr. Paul Curtiss, a dermatologist at US Dermatology Partners in Carrollton, Texas. This can cause scarring, inflammation, infections, and more painful and noticeable acne in the long term, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. He says it can also cause inflammatory hyperpigmentation, or dark marks on the skin.
When you pop a pimple, you may inadvertently push bacteria and debris into your pores, making your acne worse. Oil and other gunk can also spread, causing more pimples to appear in other areas, says Dr. Annette LaCasse, a dermatologist in Commerce Township, Michigan.
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“Pushing toward the center of the pimple can often cause pus beneath the skin to spread away from the pimple, causing a larger pimple and more inflammation,” says Levine.
Additionally, bacteria or other germs on your hands can be transferred to the stain, potentially leading to an infection, says the AAD.
“I know people want to get rid of a pimple as soon as they see it, but they need to understand that this immediate relief has consequences,” adds LaCasse.
The best way to get rid of pimples
Covering blemishes with concealer can help disguise them. But seeing a dermatologist is the safest way to pop pimples, says Levine.
Doctors can use sterilized instruments to remove blackheads and whiteheads without leaving scars or inflammation, according to the AAD. They may also inject a corticosteroid into the swelling, which helps it heal quickly and minimizes scarring. Another option is an incision and drainage procedure, where they open up the site and remove the debris (think: all those pimple-popping videos in doctors’ offices).
For a homemade option, try pimple patches. These are small patches that you apply to pimples that contain hydrocolloid gel, a substance that heals wounds, according to the Cleveland Clinic. You can also apply products containing benzoyl peroxide, glycolic acid, or salicylic acid to the blemishes. Curtiss says these items often help pimples dry up and disappear a little faster than they would on their own.
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Although dermatologists advise against removing blemishes on your own, they recognize that people are likely to do so. So knowing the proper technique can help you minimize problems, says Levine.
If you need to pop a pimple, wash your hands and face first, then apply ice to reduce pain and inflammation. Wait until the bump forms a pimple, which means the pus is close to the surface, she adds. “The correct way to pop a pimple involves gentle, equal pressure around the pimple and light pressure on the outside. If none of the pus comes out with light pressure of that nature, stop trying.”
You can use the same technique to squeeze blackheads, adds Levine.
Why it’s more effective to treat acne – not break it out
If you often have pimples that you want to pop, Curtiss suggests treating your acne problem in general. A dermatologist can help you create a plan.
Many people can treat acne at home with over-the-counter products. Using a face wash with benzoyl peroxide and applying the retinoid adapalene can help clear up acne, according to DAA. Products with salicylic acid can unclog pores and exfoliate the skin, preventing acne, and azelaic acid can minimize acne-related dark spots.
If you have acne-prone skin, Levine suggests using oil-free, non-comedogenic skin products that won’t clog pores.
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See a dermatologist if you’ve tried at-home acne treatments without improvement for four to six weeks, she says.
Doctors will determine what is causing your acne and prescribe the most appropriate treatments, which may include retinoids or topical and oral antibiotics. They may also recommend chemical peels or laser therapy.
“My goal for my patients is to always get and maintain 100% clear skin,” says Curtiss. “The best treatments are those that can prevent pimples from forming.”
This story originally appeared on Time.com read the full story
