How to pop a pimple the right way

Want to pop your pimples?  Here is how to pop a pimple the right way to avoid damaging your skin – well, minimal damage.

Should you pop pimples?

We all probably know the answer to this question:  Should you pop your pimples?  Generally, it’s recommended not to mess with your pimples in any way.  If you pick or squeeze your pimples, they can become infected and become a worse problem than they already are.  The more you touch (including squeezing), you could damage your skin.  Damaged skin leads to acne scaring.

But, if you are going to do it anyway – and I know you are – here is how to pop a pimple the right way…

How to pop a pimple the right way

The first thing you need to make sure is that the pimple is ready to pop.  If it doesn’t have a head on it, it isn’t ready and the more you touch it, the more it will get infected or make the problem worse.  So, first things first and double check that there is a head on the pimple.

Next, wash the area you plan to pop with gentle soap and water.  While you’re at it, wash your hands too.  Then, take two pieces of tissue or toilet paper and wrap them around your index fingers.  With your tissue covered fingers, gently squeeze the pimple.  If nothing comes out, you can try one more time.  If still nothing comes out, stop – don’t do anything more.

If you do get puss to come out, continue to squeeze gently until the oil and puss are expelled.  If, at any time you see blood, stop immediately.  Hold a piece of tissue or cotton ball to the pimple to allow the oil to be absorbed.

Then, wash the area again to make sure you remove all the puss, oil or dirt from the area so that it doesn’t get re-infected.  At this time, you can apply a spot treatment but it’s not necessary.

How to pop your pimple the right way is the same whether it’s a whitehead or a blackhead.