To pop or not to pop?

For some reason, popping a pimple provides us with much satisfaction. While seeing an unwelcome nuisance disappear feels gratifying momentarily, consider the aftermath of your actions. Picking or popping a pimple can actually push the dirt and bacteria deeper into the skin, causing more swelling, redness and irritation. If your skin is prone to scars, popping a pimple can lead to long-term damage. Deep scars can even become permanent and require professional solutions like laser treatments.

Rest assured that most pimples will go away on their own in due time. If you want to speed up the process, apply a spot treatment with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid to dry out the pimple up to three times daily. If excessive drying or irritation occurs, don't use the product as often. Another option is to use a clay mask containing either kaolin or bentonite clay on the spot, which you can leave overnight.

Product picks

• Murad Acne Spot Treatment contains salicylic acid and licorice extract to gently dry up blemishes.


• B. Kamins Medicated Acne Gel is formulated with 10 percent benzoyl peroxide to effectively clear stubborn spots.


• Boscia Clarifying Detox Mask contains both bentonite and kaolin clay as well as pure botanicals and herbs. Use as an overnight spot treatment, which is especially effective at drying up painful cysts that can’t be popped.

Smart steps to popping

If popping is your only option — though we recommend turning to a professional — it’s important to do it correctly. Follow these steps to reduce the likelihood of unsightly scarring and scabbing.

• First of all, never force a pimple that isn’t ready to be popped. If the bump is still red and painful and doesn’t have a white top filled with yellowish-white pus just beneath the surface, leave it alone.


• Wash your hands and face thoroughly before proceeding, making sure to remove all dirt, oil and bacteria.


• Apply a warm washcloth to the pimple and hold it there for a minute or two. This will open up the pore and make the pimple easier to pop.


• Never pop a pimple with your bare fingers. Even if your fingers are clean, you’ll still spread your skin’s natural oils to the area, which can cause more pimples to form. Instead, wrap your fingers in a tissue or toilet paper. The tissue will act as a buffer, preventing you from scratching the skin and help you to get a better grip.


• Using gentle pressure on both sides of the pimple, press downwards and underneath the pimple to force the pus up and out rather than deeper into the pore. Wipe off any puss that comes out. To avoid redness, swelling or bleeding, don’t squeeze more than twice.


• Another way to safely pop a pimple is to use a sterilized needle that’s been dipped in rubbing alcohol, witch hazel or passed through a flame. Use the needle to lightly puncture the head of the pimple, and gently wipe off any pus.


• When blood appears after squeezing, that’s a sign that the majority of the pus is out and the pimple is ready to heal. Use a clean cotton pad and apply to the area to stop the bleeding; then apply an antibiotic ointment to the area to help the pimple heal without scarring. For the next few days, avoid using makeup or skincare products that might irritate the spot.


• Generally, because scarring and irritation can occur, before trying to pop a pimple on your own, consider a spot treatment. If your acne doesn’t improve, see a skincare specialist.

Learn everything you need to know about acne-fighting skincare in our Complete Acne Handbook.