One of the most common questions that I hear is whether it’s okay to pop pimples. Some people will tell you that popping a pimple can cause scarring, while others will tell you that it is harmless. In fact, there are many different factors that you should consider before making a decision about whether it’s okay to pop pimples.
Avoiding popping a pimple
A pimple is a small bump on the surface of the skin that is filled with white pus. It forms when the pores on the skin become clogged with oil and dead skin cells.
The most obvious reason to avoid popping a pimple is that you risk infection. Pimples hold a lot of bacteria, which can easily be spread to other areas of the body. Depending on the severity, a single pimple can run its course in about three to seven days.
In addition to introducing bacteria to your skin, squeezing the pimple can cause tissue loss. This results in pits and scars.
Some dermatologists suggest that the proper way to get rid of a pimple is to leave it alone. While this is generally true, some people just can’t resist the urge to pop it.
Whiteheads
If you have acne, it is not recommended to pop whiteheads. This can cause long term damage to your skin and result in scars. In addition, squeezing can make the pimple worse, which can also result in infection.
Dermatologists recommend that people not try to pop acne themselves. Instead, they should use a topical product to treat it. These treatments contain salicylic acid, which will break up trapped debris. They may even be able to kill the bacteria that is contributing to your breakout.
Some dermatologists may prescribe oral antibiotics or cortisone shots. The goal is to shrink your nodules without causing further inflammation.
You should always wash your hands before you start any kind of treatment. Also, you should apply a warm washcloth to the area. It can help to relax the muscles around the affected blemish.
Noninflamed acne
When it comes to popping pimples, there are certain types that are safe to do. This includes non-inflammatory acne. However, popping inflamed acne is definitely a bad idea.
One reason why is that it can cause permanent damage to your skin. It can also lead to scarring and infection.
If you are not sure whether you should pop or not, it is better to let your doctor decide. Your doctor may be able to prescribe topical retinoid or antibiotic ointment for your acne. Or they may be able to extract the pimple through an in-office procedure.
Another reason why you should not pop inflamed pimples is because it can push the pus deeper under your skin. Once the pus is under your skin, it is harder for your skin to heal.
Scarring
While it’s tempting to pop a zit to relieve the pain, you should remember that doing so can result in acne scarring. You can minimize your risk of scarring by following a few simple tips.
Often, pimples are a result of excess oil clogging the pores in the skin. When this happens, the pores can become inflamed, resulting in a painful papule. If left untreated, the infection may spread further, causing a scab to form.
Squeezing a pimple can also cause inflammation and damage to the skin. It can also irritate the surrounding skin, leading to acne nodules and possibly scars.
One way to protect your skin from the damage caused by popping a zit is to use a product that contains salicylic acid. This anti-inflammatory ingredient helps clear up the skin.
Injecting a steroid into the area
If you have a deep pimple that is inflamed, you can ask your doctor to inject a steroid into the area. This will help reduce inflammation and allow the pimple to heal faster. It can also help prevent scarring.
However, you need to know that the risks of having a steroid shot are many. You can develop acne scars, a divot or pit in your skin, thinning of your skin, and other problems.
Before undergoing an injection, your doctor should assess the severity of your acne. For example, if you have very inflamed acne, the steroid may not be effective. A dermatologist will also be able to tell you whether your condition is severe enough to warrant a shot.
When you have a steroid shot, you will probably be given an anesthetic and gauze. Then, a micro-needle will be used to inject the steroid into your skin.
