The Dangers of Popping Pimples – Why You Should Stop
The Dangers of Popping Pimples 🚫
❗ What Happens When You Pop a Pimple
• Redness
• Swelling
• Pain
• Scarring
• Hyperpigmentation
• More breakouts
✨ Better Alternatives
• Use spot treatments
• Apply ice to reduce inflammation
• See a dermatologist
• Use proper skincare products
Introduction: The Dangers of Popping Pimples – Why You Should Stop
Have you ever stood in front of the mirror, fingers poised to squeeze that pesky pimple?
We see this scenario daily at Wellaholic, where customers come to us with scarring from their DIY pimple-popping attempts. As aesthetic professionals with over 15 years of combined experience treating acne and its aftermath, we’ve witnessed the damage that can result from this common but risky habit. Through our work at both Wellaholic and Laser Clinics Australia, we’ve treated countless cases of acne scarring, infections, and hyperpigmentation caused by improper pimple extraction.
Let us share why you should keep your hands off those blemishes and what you can do instead.
Is Popping Pimples Really A Bad Idea?
Although it may be tempting to pop your pimples, experts advise against it. Pimple popping can cause the spread of bacteria and inflammation, resulting in an even bigger problem than the original zit. It is essential to practice good hygiene and use topical treatments like salicylic acid in order to control breakouts.
When it comes to dealing with pimples, prevention is key. It is important to keep your skin clean by washing twice daily with a gentle cleanser that won’t strip your skin of its natural oils. Also avoid touching your face too often as this can transfer bacteria onto the skin which can lead to more breakouts. If you already have an existing breakout, don’t pick at it or try and squeeze out its contents as this will only make things worse!
As an aesthetics professional, I cannot stress enough the importance of leaving pimple extraction to trained experts. At Wellaholic, our skilled therapists use sterile techniques and specialized tools to safely remove pimples when necessary, minimizing the risk of damage to your skin. We also provide comprehensive aftercare advice to promote healing and prevent future breakouts.
“Never underestimate the consequences of popping a pimple – it can be more damaging than you think!”
Types of Pimples
At Wellaholic, we see many customers who want to learn about their acne types. Let us break this down in simple terms. There are two main groups of pimples: non-inflammatory and inflammatory. Non-inflammatory types include blackheads and whiteheads. Blackheads look dark because they are open to the air, while whiteheads are white bumps trapped under the skin. The inflammatory group includes papules (small red bumps), pustules (red bumps with white pus), nodules (hard lumps deep under skin), and cysts (large, painful, pus-filled lumps).
Through our work at our aesthetic centers, we notice that most people have a mix of different pimple types. For example, many of our customers come to us with both whiteheads on their forehead and inflammatory papules on their cheeks. Understanding your specific type of acne helps us choose the right treatment plan for your skin.
Pimple Popping Risks
Do you find yourself frequently popping your pimples? If so, it is important to be aware of the risks that are associated with this habit. While popping a pimple may temporarily make them less visible, it can often times lead to more severe and long-term issues.
Popping your pimples can cause inflammation in the skin and an increase in potential for bacterial infection. The trauma caused by popping a blemish damages the surrounding tissue creating an open wound, which if exposed to bacteria or dirt increases chances of cyst formation or scarring. Not only this but squeezing any type of acne also pushes bacteria further into the skin which often leads to prolonged breakouts and extra redness.
Risk 1: Popping Pimples can Cause Possible Damage to Skin
When someone pops a pimple, they are squeezing out the infection and puss inside. This causes inflammation in the surrounding area of skin, leading to redness and swelling. Additionally, when a person attempts to pop a pimple on their own, they risk pushing the infection further into their skin which can cause permanent scarring or discoloration. Furthermore, if they do not wash their hands before popping the pimple they can introduce bacteria from their hands into their skin which may lead to an infection that requires antibiotics for treatment.
Issue 2: Popping Pimples can Cause Skin Infections
When a pimple is popped, the contents of the clogged pore are exposed and able to spread infection underneath the skin easily. Improper technique or dirty tools such as nails, pins or needles should never be used for popping zits as this increases the chances of infection greatly. Furthermore, squeezing too hard or too often will also increase the risk of infection due to additional inflammation caused by breakage of small capillaries beneath the surface of the skin.
Issue 3: Popping Pimples can Cause Scarring and Marking
Popping pimples can cause serious damage to the skin that can last a lifetime. Not only can popping pimples lead to scarring, it can also lead to dark spots and discoloration of the skin. People with oily or acne prone skin should be especially careful when it comes to popping pimples as this action will increase the risk of permanent damage.
In some cases, even if the pimple is popped correctly, scarring can still occur due to irritation or infections caused by bacteria on hands and fingertips. To avoid any potential consequences of popping a pimple, it is best to let them heal naturally without interference. In order for this to happen quickly and effectively, acne prone individuals should take preventative measures such as moisturizing their face regularly and avoiding harsh facial cleansers that may strip away natural oils from the skin.
Alternatives to Popping Pimples
Pimples are a common skin issue that many people struggle with. While popping pimples feels like the quickest way to get rid of them, this approach may actually cause more harm than good. In addition to causing potential scarring, popping pimples can also lead to increased inflammation and infection. Fortunately, there are other ways to address blemishes quickly and effectively without resorting to squeezing them.
The first step in treating acne is identifying what type you have so that you can best target it. For mild breakouts, topical treatments such as benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid can help reduce inflammation and kill bacteria on your skin’s surface. Additionally, using a gentle facial cleanser twice daily is essential for keeping pores clean and clear of dirt and oil buildup, which can be the prime cause of acne breakouts in the first place.
At Wellaholic, we’ve seen remarkable results with our Elight Facial Collagen Boost treatment. This six-step technology facial combines Radio Frequency (RF) and Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) to effectively target acne-causing bacteria, reduce inflammation, and promote collagen production for clearer, healthier skin. In my experience, regular Elight treatments, combined with a consistent skincare routine, can work wonders in banishing pimples and preventing their recurrence.
Conclusion: Don’t Pop Your Pimples, Please!
As experienced aesthetic professionals, we understand the strong urge to pop pimples, but we’ve seen too many cases of scarring and infections to recommend this approach. Through our years of treating acne at Wellaholic and working with various skin conditions, we’ve learned that patience and proper treatment are key to achieving clear, healthy skin.
The good news is that you don’t have to battle acne alone. At Wellaholic, our Elight Facial Collagen Boost treatment combines advanced technologies to effectively eliminate acne-causing bacteria while promoting skin healing. If you’re ready to stop the cycle of pimple popping and start your journey to clearer skin, we invite you to try our six-step facial treatment. Book your first session today and let our experienced therapists help you achieve the complexion you deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can stress cause more pimples to appear on my face?
We often see customers at Wellaholic who notice increased breakouts during stressful periods. When you’re stressed, your body produces more cortisol, which can trigger excess oil production in your skin. This extra sebum can clog pores and lead to more pimples. While we can’t always control stress, we recommend maintaining a consistent skincare routine and considering treatments like our Elight Facial Collagen Boost to help manage stress-related breakouts.
How long does it typically take for a pimple to heal naturally?
From our experience treating acne at Wellaholic, an untouched pimple usually takes 3-7 days to heal naturally. However, this timeline can vary depending on the type and size of the pimple. Whiteheads tend to heal faster than deep, cystic acne. Using appropriate skincare products and professional treatments can speed up the healing process while minimizing the risk of scarring.
What’s the difference between professional extraction and at-home pimple popping?
Professional extraction at Wellaholic involves sterile equipment, proper technique, and controlled pressure. We use specialized tools and maintain strict hygiene protocols to minimize trauma to the skin. At-home popping often involves dirty fingers and excessive force, which can drive bacteria deeper into the skin and cause inflammation, infection, and scarring.
Does wearing makeup make acne worse?
Through our work with customers, we’ve found that makeup itself doesn’t necessarily cause acne. However, certain ingredients in cosmetics can clog pores, and poor makeup removal habits often contribute to breakouts. We recommend using non-comedogenic products and thoroughly cleansing your face before bed to prevent pimples.
Why do some pimples keep coming back in the same spot?
Recurring pimples in the same location often indicate an underlying issue with that particular pore. This could be due to a damaged or enlarged follicle, or persistent bacteria in the area. At Wellaholic, we address these stubborn spots with targeted treatments that help kill bacteria and reduce inflammation to prevent future breakouts.
What’s the best way to prevent acne scarring?
Based on our extensive experience treating acne scars at both Wellaholic and Laser Clinics Australia, prevention is crucial. The best way to avoid scarring is to resist popping pimples and seek professional treatment for severe acne. Early intervention with appropriate treatments like our Elight Facial Collagen Boost can help prevent the formation of permanent scars.
Serene Chiam, Aesthetic Director
Serene Chiam is the Aesthetic Director at Wellaholic, a well-known aesthetic chain in Singapore. She has more than ten years of experience in the aesthetics industry. With a Bachelor of Health Science (Aesthetics) and CIDESCO certifications, she expertly combines scientific knowledge with practical skills. Serene is known for her personalized approach to beauty, ensuring each Wellaholic client’s journey is unique and transformative. Her significant contributions have been pivotal in establishing Wellaholic’s reputation for excellence in aesthetic wellness.
Contact Serene at support@wellaholic.com
GET IN TOUCH
Book Now Pay Later
Elight Monthly Facial – Look Six Years Younger in Three Months
- ⭐ Six-Step Technology Facial. Elight Monthly Facial is a six-step technology facial backed by scientific research.
- ⭐ RF, IPL, LED, REFA, etc. Elight Monthly Facial combines multiple technologies (RF, IPL, Diamond Peel, LED, Retinol, REFA massage) for comprehensive skincare.
- ⭐ Reduce Pimples and Acne. Elight is also able to reduce pimples and acne with its high energy waves.
- ⭐ One Price for 4 Weekly Facials. The Elight treatments are designed as an affordable unlimited monthly package with weekly visits.
- ⭐ Award-Winning. Wellaholic’s treatments have been recognized by top beauty publications such as Daily Vanity, Beauty Insider, and Tropika Club Magazine.
- ⭐ Over 2000 Verified Customer Reviews. Wellaholic has over 30 industry awards and over 2000 positive reviews from customers, and >50% are repeat customers.
