Popping a pimple can often feel like an impulse, a strong urge to do an act without considering the consequences. Unfortunately, popping pimples more often manifests as a compulsion, a strong, repetitive urge to do something. This urge is normally driven by anxiety and obsessive thoughts. That's why we find ourselves in the mirror over and over again even though we know popping a pimple could have consequences. 

Popping a pimple can often feel cathartic and may ease feelings of abjection. However, what are the implications of such a compulsion for the skin barrier? Pimple popping, especially if it's repetitive, can lead to scarring, hyperpigmentation, breakouts, infection, and dryness.

So, can you safely pop a pimple? We’ll answer this, but before we get into it, know that popping a pimple is not a best practice. Furthermore, please find out whether you're dealing with a compulsion. If so, it's important to speak with a mental health professional specializing in compulsive behaviors. Speaking to a dermatologist could also be helpful.

Read more about the crossover between psychology and dermatology. 

 

Click here for accessible mental health resources with BetterHelp. 

 

So, let’s break it down—based on science and esthetics.

 

The Do's and Don'ts of Popping a Pimple

 

THE DON'TS

Don't apply too much pressure.

Too much pressure potentially pushes bacteria and debris deeper into the skin, causing swelling and even more stubborn blemishes.

Don't use unwashed hands

Squeezing with unclean hands or tools introduces bacteria and increases the risk of infection and further breakouts. Also, squeezing should not continue once the pimple is drained. This only worsens irritation and increases healing time.

Don't pick at your skin.

Repeatedly picking at your skin damages the surrounding skin, potentially leading to dark spots, redness, and permanent scarring. But, before popping a pimple, it's important to know if you should even try. 

 

When is it safe to pop a pimple?

If you’re going to do it (and let’s be honest, we all do sometimes), it’s important to follow proper techniques to reduce damage and speed up healing.

So, let's go over the types of lesions that have a better chance of being popped safely at home. We'll also share how to know they're ready. Trying to pop the wrong type of lesion or one that is not ready can lead to compulsive behaviors like picking. 

The most feasible pimples to pop (safely!)

✔ Whiteheads (closed comedones): If a pimple has fully come to a white or yellow head, its contents are very close to the surface, making it safer to extract.

✔ Blackheads (open comedones): These can be gently extracted with clean hands or a professional comedone extractor, as they are not inflamed like other types of acne.

 

🚫 Do NOT Pop: Cystic or Nodular Acne. These deep, painful breakouts should never be squeezed. Popping cysts will push bacteria deeper into the skin, increasing inflammation and potential scarring.

And if you’re uncertain about whether a lesion is ready to be popped or the type, leave it alone. We promise, your skin will thank you!

 

How to safely pop a pimple (If you feel like you must!)

If you feel like a pimple must be popped, follow these esthetician-approved steps to avoid long-term damage.

 

1. Prep Your Skin

✔ Wash your hands and face with a gentle, antibacterial cleanser to prevent bacteria from spreading.

✔ Apply a warm compress for 2-3 minutes to soften the skin and open the pore slightly.

2. Use Clean Tools

✔ If using fingers, wrap them in clean tissue or cotton swabs.

✔ If using a sterilized needle, lightly pierce the very tip of the whitehead to create an exit for the pus.

3. Gentle Extraction—No Force!

✔ Apply light, even pressure around the pimple. Do not squeeze with fingernails! If it doesn’t release easily, stop—forcing it will damage the skin.

✔ Once the pus is out, apply gentle pressure to drain any clear fluid (but not blood).

 

4. Post-Extraction Care

✔ Cleanse the area again and apply an antibacterial treatment like benzoyl peroxide or BHA.

✔ Finish with soothing products like ceramide moisturizers or a hydrocolloid patch to protect the skin and speed up healing.

✔ WEAR SUNSCREEN, especially if you're using ace treatments. UV radiation damages the skin barrier, and likewise, can exacerbate acne. So, sunscreen is a great preventer for inflammation! Also, sunscreen keeps acne treatments from degrading on your skin, which can also cause irritation. Many contend that physical sunscreens are better for acne-prone skin. Anecdotally, several have reported that chemical sunscreens slightly sting lesions.

When should I see an esthetician or dermatologist?

If you’re experiencing recurring breakouts, deep cysts, or post-acne scarring, it’s best to seek professional help.An esthetician can safely perform professional extractions, using sterile tools to remove blackheads and whiteheads without damaging the skin.

 

A dermatologist may recommend:

✔ Corticosteroid injections for inflamed cysts to reduce swelling.

✔ Medical extractions for stubborn comedones.

✔ Prescription treatments if acne is persistent or severe.

 

However, prevention is often a more helpful tool than prescription.

Best practices: prevent pimples so you don’t need to pop!

Rather than focusing on extraction, prevent breakouts before they start. These esthetician-approved tips are a great way to start.

✔ Use gentle, medically-proven skincare products to keep pores clear.

✔ Incorporate salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide into your routine for acne-prone skin.

✔ Avoid touching your face to reduce bacteria transfer.

✔ Hydrate and eat a skin-friendly diet to support your skin barrier and overall body.

 

Here are a few products to start with!

PanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash Benzoyl Peroxide 10% Maximum Strength Antimicrobial, 5.5 Oz

$9.77

Paula's Choice SKIN PERFECTING 2% BHA Liquid Salicylic Acid Travel Size

 $14

 

Cocokind ceramide barrier serum 

$24.99

 

ISNTREE Purple Protector  

14.50

 

Popping should be avoided as much as possible, and prevention is always the best option. 

Pimple patches 

One of the best prevention methods for popping and picking is pimple patches or hydrocolloid patches. They conceal the patch so there is less of an urge to pick, and many of them deliver helpful ingredients such as salicylic acid. These patches can help lesions heal by delivering hydration and supporting collagen production.

 

ZitSticka GOO GETTER™ Hydrocolloid Pimple Patch

$14.99

 

 

 

 

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