Why You Should Never Pop A Pimple
Pimples are small, raised bumps on the surface of your skin. They can be red, white, or yellow, and they’re usually surrounded by a small area of inflammation. Pimples occur when your hair follicles become clogged with sebum, an oily substance produced by your sebaceous glands.
While pimples are a normal part of adolescence and usually nothing to worry about, they can be incredibly frustrating, unsightly, and even painful. And though tempting, one of the worst things you can do to a pimple is pop it.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the major reasons why popping your pimples is a bad idea.
7 reasons why you shouldn’t pop a pimple
1. It can cause permanent scarring
One of the most serious consequences of popping a pimple is that it can lead to permanent scarring. When you pop a pimple, you’re actually rupturing the skin, which can damage the tissue and cause scarring.
2. It can spread bacteria and cause infections
Another reason not to pop your pimples is that doing so could spread bacteria and cause infections. When you pop a pimple, you’re essentially opening up a wound. This gives bacteria an easy way to enter your skin and cause an infection.
Because let’s be honest, you’re likely not disinfecting your hands or the pimple itself before popping, which further increases the risk of infection.
3. It’s painful
Popping a pimple can also be quite painful, even more so than leaving it there and letting it run its course. This is because when you pop a pimple, you’re breaking the skin, which can be quite tender and sensitive.
4. It can cause more inflammation
Another downside to popping a pimple is that it can cause more inflammation. When you pop a pimple, you irritate the already inflamed area, which can lead to even more redness and swelling.
5. It might lead to more breakouts
Believe it or not, popping a pimple can lead to more breakouts. This happens because when you pop a pimple, you’re introducing new bacteria to the area, which can cause more pimples to form.
6. It can disrupt the skin’s natural healing process
The act of popping a pimple can also disrupt the skin’s natural healing process. When you pop a pimple, you interfere with the cycle that would otherwise allow the pimple to heal on its own.
7. It’s just plain gross
If nothing else, popping a pimple is just flat-out disgusting! No one wants to see the contents of a pimple, and no one wants to deal with the aftermath.
So, there you have it—seven good reasons to resist the urge to pop your pimples.
What happens if you don’t pop a pimple?
If you don’t pop a pimple, it will eventually go away on its own. This can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the size and severity of the pimple.
Where does the pus go if you don’t pop a pimple?
Leukocytes in your body will consume and carry away the bacteria if you don’t pop a pimple. In other words, the pus will eventually be reabsorbed and destroyed by your body.
There are some things you can do to help speed up the healing process:
- Wash your face twice daily with a gentle cleanser
- Avoid touching or picking at the pimple
- Use a moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated
But what should you do if you have a pimple that’s just begging to be popped?
Alternatives: what to do instead of popping a pimple?
Apply a warm compress
One of the best things you can do for a pimple is to apply a warm compress. This will help to reduce inflammation and swelling.
To make a warm compress, simply soak a clean washcloth in hot water and apply it to the affected area for 10-15 minutes.
Use a spot treatment
Another good option is to use a spot treatment. Spot treatments are typically over-the-counter gels or creams that contain acne-fighting ingredients like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. When used correctly, these treatments can help to dry up pimples and speed healing.
To use a spot treatment, apply a small amount of the product to a clean cotton swab or cotton ball and apply it to the pimple. Be sure to follow the package directions carefully. Mighty Patch Original from Hero Cosmetics is perfect for getting rid of pimples.