The Best Way to Pop a Pimple, According to a Top Dermatologist
The Risks of Popping Pimples
Experts strongly advise against popping pimples, as it can cause a dangerous and potentially deadly infection. However, for those who cannot resist, a top dermatologist, Dr. Mamina Turegano, is sharing the best way to do it safely.
The Four-Step Process
Dr. Turegano recommends beginning by using an over-the-counter medicated spot treatment or pimple patch to help reduce the pimple. If the white head still appears to be present, follow these steps:
Step 1: Sterilize the Area
Sterilize your hands and the area with rubbing alcohol to prevent infection.
Step 2: Poke the Pimple
Use a diabetic lancet, which has a very small needle, to open the surface of the pimple with a small prick. This will create a small hole that "won’t cause too much damage."
Step 3: Drain the Pimple
Apply slight pressure with two cotton swabs to let the contents of the pimple drain out. "When popping a pimple, it’s very important that you’re not applying a lot of pressure otherwise you’re going to get a lot more inflammation and result in scarring," warns Dr. Turegano.
Step 4: Clean Up
Once the pimple has been drained, clean the area with soap and water to prevent infection.
Important Safety Precautions
- Never touch a pimple with your fingers. Use cotton swabs to apply pressure instead.
- Avoid popping pimples in the "triangle of death," which includes the area from the bridge of the nose down to the corners of the mouth. This area has veins that connect directly to the brain and can introduce a nidus of infection into the bloodstream.
The "Triangle of Death"
Board-certified NYC-based dermatologist Dr. Mark Strom warns that popping pimples in this area can be particularly dangerous. "Popping pimples in the center of the face can be particularly dangerous. The area of the face from the bridge of the nose down to the corners of the mouth has veins that connect directly to the brain via a blood vessel called the cavernous sinus."
Conclusion
While it is important to be careful when popping pimples, it is equally important to take proper precautions to prevent infection and scarring. By following the steps outlined above and avoiding the "triangle of death," you can help ensure a safe and successful pimple-popping experience.
FAQs
Q: Why should I not pop my pimples?
A: Popping pimples can cause a dangerous and potentially deadly infection. It is recommended to leave pimples alone or use a spot treatment to help reduce their appearance.
Q: What is the "triangle of death"?
A: The "triangle of death" is the area from the bridge of the nose down to the corners of the mouth, where the veins connect directly to the brain and can introduce a nidus of infection into the bloodstream.
Q: How can I safely pop a pimple?
A: To safely pop a pimple, use an over-the-counter medicated spot treatment or pimple patch, sterilize the area with rubbing alcohol, poke the pimple with a diabetic lancet, and apply slight pressure with cotton swabs to let the contents drain out.
