Should You Pop Your Pimple? A Dermatologist’s Guide to Skin Health

Ask the Dermatologist: Should I Pop My Pimple or Avoid It?

In recent years, there’s been an undeniable rise in the popularity of pimple popping, largely driven by social media and online videos. Dr. Sandra Lee, better known as “Dr. Pimple Popper,” has become an internet sensation with more than 16 million followers on TikTok as of 2024 and over 8 million subscribers on YouTube. What began as an educational and entertaining approach to dermatology has now turned into a cultural phenomenon, where millions of people eagerly watch her videos of extractions and skin treatments. There’s something strangely satisfying about the process of removing a pimple, whether you’re the one doing it or simply watching it unfold on your screen. But what about those moments when you’re standing in front of the mirror, faced with the temptation to pop your own pimple? Is it ever a good idea to pop that pesky blemish, or should you always resist?

The Pimple Popper Phenomenon: Is It Just for Fun?

As anyone who has watched Dr. Lee’s videos can attest, there’s an oddly therapeutic element to watching pimples being popped. Whether it’s a satisfying release of pressure or the aesthetic gratification of clearing up the skin, the popularity of pimple popping videos has continued to surge. The appeal isn’t just limited to Dr. Pimple Popper’s famous online presence, either. Countless Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube creators have adopted similar content, providing hours of footage for fans to indulge in. But does this mean popping pimples is actually a good idea, or should we leave it to the professionals?

To get some clarity on this subject, we asked our trusted dermatologist, Dr. Anthony Nuara, MD PhD FAAD, to weigh in on the matter. He’s an expert in the field, and his perspective may help clear up some of the confusion.

Understanding Pimples: The Science Behind Them

Before diving into whether or not it’s safe to pop a pimple, it’s essential to understand how pimples form in the first place. Each pore on your body leads to a follicle that contains both a hair and a sebaceous gland, which produces sebum—a natural oil that helps keep your skin hydrated. Sebum, while essential for skin health, can sometimes cause problems when produced in excess. When the excess oil mixes with dead skin cells and other debris, it can clog the pore, leading to a blockage. Bacteria can also accumulate in the pore, causing inflammation, which ultimately results in a pimple.

Pimples are commonly seen as one of the many symptoms of acne, but it’s important to note that pimples and acne aren’t exactly the same thing. Acne is a chronic, inflammatory skin condition, whereas pimples, also known as comedones, are just one manifestation of that condition. Pimples can present as either open comedones (commonly known as blackheads) or closed comedones (which are whiteheads). While pimples can appear anywhere on the body, they’re most frequently found on the face, chest, shoulders, and back.

Should You Pop Your Pimple? The Pros and Cons

When you have a pimple that’s swollen, red, and topped with a whitehead, the urge to pop it can be incredibly strong. However, before you reach for your fingers or any sharp objects to pop that pimple, it’s important to weigh the potential benefits and risks.

The Cons of Popping Pimples

Despite the allure of popping a pimple for immediate relief, the practice is fraught with risks. Here are some of the major drawbacks:

Spread of Bacteria: Our hands and fingernails carry a significant amount of bacteria, and when you pop a pimple, you’re introducing these bacteria into the wound, which can lead to further infection or even the formation of more pimples.

Permanent Scarring: Squeezing or picking at pimples can damage the skin and result in scarring, particularly if the pimple is deep or cystic. Even if it doesn’t scar immediately, picking at pimples can lead to long-term skin discoloration and textural irregularities.

Delay in Healing: The skin’s natural healing process is incredibly effective when left uninterrupted. Popping pimples, on the other hand, can disrupt this process and actually prolong the time it takes for the blemish to heal.

Increased Inflammation: When you force a pimple to pop, you’re likely causing more inflammation. This means that the pimple may become even more inflamed, red, and swollen, making it more noticeable and harder to treat.

Regret: It’s not uncommon for people to pop their pimples in a moment of frustration, only to regret the decision later on. The temporary satisfaction of popping a pimple is often followed by feelings of guilt and disappointment when you realize that you’ve made the situation worse.

Is There Ever a Good Reason to Pop Pimples?

While the risks of popping pimples far outweigh the benefits, there are a few rare occasions when it might be acceptable—though this should be done with caution. The main “pro” of pimple popping is the immediate satisfaction you get from seeing the pimple drained of pus, especially if the pimple has a visible whitehead. This sense of relief can be very compelling, but it’s not worth sacrificing the health of your skin for a brief moment of gratification.

Expert Dermatologist Advice: What to Do Instead

Dr. Anthony Nuara recommends that, whenever possible, you should resist the temptation to pop pimples. The truth is, most pimples will resolve on their own if you simply leave them alone and allow your skin to heal naturally. The best course of action is often to let the pimple run its course, which typically takes anywhere from three to seven days. Of course, deeper or cystic pimples may take longer to heal, but even then, popping them is not the solution.

If you absolutely must address a pimple, ask yourself if it’s even ready to pop. If the pimple is deeply embedded in the skin and lacks a visible whitehead, don’t attempt to pop it. Popping a pimple that’s still under the surface can push the contents deeper into your skin, causing more inflammation and spreading bacteria to the inner layers, which can only make things worse.

Instead of focusing on trying to pop pimples, Dr. Nuara suggests that the key to managing acne is prevention. The goal should be to minimize the formation of future pimples by following a proper skincare routine that focuses on keeping the skin clean and balanced.

Recommended Skincare Products for Acne-Prone Skin

If you’re prone to acne or pimples, it’s important to use products that help prevent future breakouts while promoting skin healing. Dr. Nuara recommends the following ingredients and products as effective treatments for acne-prone skin:

Night Renewal Cream: Retinoids, such as granactive retinoid found in this cream, are incredibly effective at preventing clogged pores, which are the primary cause of comedones. Retinoids also promote collagen production, which can speed up the healing process for existing pimples and reduce the appearance of scars.

Niacinamide Lotion 10%: Niacinamide is a potent anti-inflammatory that helps control the production of sebum (oil) on the skin. This ingredient not only helps to prevent acne flare-ups but also fades hyperpigmentation caused by previous breakouts.

Azelaic Acid 14% Cream: Azelaic acid is an antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory agent that helps keep pores clean, reduces the growth of acne-causing bacteria, and prevents the formation of whiteheads. It also combats hormonal acne by balancing hormone-related oil production in the skin.

Hyaluronic Acid Lotion: This ingredient is a humectant that draws moisture into the skin, promoting hydration and aiding in the healing of acne lesions and scars. It can also prevent the skin from becoming too dry or irritated, which is important for managing acne.

These products work synergistically to support acne-free skin without the need for invasive treatments like pimple popping. When layering these products, Dr. Nuara recommends applying the thinnest products first and working your way up to thicker ones for maximum effectiveness.

Safe Pimple Popping Techniques

While Dr. Nuara strongly advises against popping pimples on your own, he acknowledges that some people may be unable to resist the urge. If you do decide to pop a pimple, it’s essential to do so with caution. Dr. Nuara recommends using two cotton swabs to gently apply pressure around the pimple to encourage the contents to come out. Never use your fingers, as they can transfer bacteria, and never apply force—if blood appears, stop immediately, as this indicates the pimple is too deep to pop.

Alternatives to Popping Pimples

If you can’t resist the temptation to address a pimple, there are safer alternatives to popping that can help. For instance:

Salicylic Acid Treatment: Salicylic acid is a common treatment for acne, as it helps to exfoliate the skin and clear out clogged pores. Applying a patch or topical treatment with salicylic acid can help reduce inflammation and promote healing.

Warm Compress: Holding a warm (not hot) compress against the pimple can help loosen the pus and encourage it to drain naturally. This should be done gently and should not be forced.

Stay Away from the Mirror: It’s easy to get caught up in the habit of picking at pimples, but limiting your time in front of the mirror can reduce the temptation.

Consistent Skincare Routine: Use acne-fighting products regularly to prevent future pimples from forming. Keeping your skin clean and balanced can greatly reduce the chances of breakouts.

Common FAQs About Pimple Popping

Is it safe for a dermatologist to pop pimples?

Yes, a board-certified dermatologist can safely remove pimples without the risk of scarring or infection. Dermatologists are trained to perform extractions in a sterile environment and can also inject medication to reduce inflammation in large pimples.

Should I pop a pimple if it’s white?

If a pimple has a visible whitehead, it is generally safer to pop than a deeper pimple. However, it’s still better to wait it out or use an alternative treatment like a patch or warm compress.

How do pimples heal if you don’t pop them?

If left alone, pimples usually heal within 3 to 7 days. Deeper cysts may take longer, but they often heal without significant scarring.

Does popping pimples cause more pimples?

While popping a pimple doesn’t directly cause more pimples, it can aggravate the current breakout by introducing bacteria, causing inflammation, and prolonging the healing process.

DQH Knowledge drop: In your 20s, your skin cell turnover decreases. (Cell turnover is a key component in keeping your skin youthful.) You know what else slows down? Your collagen production. Starting in your 20s, collagen decreases by about 1 percent per year. Should you want to prevent fine lines and wrinkles, start by eliminating behaviors that contribute to premature aging. “If it’s bad for you, it’s bad for your skin,” says dermatologist Michel Somenek. “Cigarette smoking reduces blood flow to the skin and causes premature wrinkling and a dull skin texture. Making the repeated pursed motion to inhale can also cause smoker’s lines. Alcohol and recreational drugs are toxins for the skin that damage its cellular structure and DNA,” Somenek tells us. “The faster you eliminate vices while you are young, the better chance your skin and body have to recuperate.” Also, adopting an anti-aging routine in your 20s is key. After all, the best offense is a good defense. We spoke to Somenek and experts Joshua Ross and Audrey Kunin to find out more. Keep reading for the best anti-aging products for your 20s, according to skincare professionals. Sunscreen “We all know that the sun is the number one cause of skin aging and starting the prevention in your 20s is very important,” Ross says. “The majority of your sun damage won’t start to appear until you’re in your 30s, so don’t wait until you see it surface or you’ll be behind the curve. Stay ahead of it with a good-quality zinc-based sunscreen worn daily.” Farmacy Green Defense Daily Mineral Sunscreen An invisible sunscreen with SPF 30, plus botanical extracts meant to protect skin with tons of antioxidants. Bonus: It’s clean and fine to use under makeup. Bareminerals Complexion Rescue™ Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Although we recommend you use your SPF and moisturizer separately, we also understand moments when you don’t have time or energy for that extra step. For those times, this bareMinerals moisturizer is a great thing to have on hand. Vitamin C Serum “A great introduction to anti-aging is to start with a vitamin C serum in your morning skincare routine,” Ross says. “It’s a powerful antioxidant that will neutralize free radicals and brighten the skin.” He adds that it’s a great way to counteract the effects of the sun’s harmful rays, which, as previously mentioned, are among the biggest causes of premature aging. Drunk Elephant C-Firma™ Vitamin C Day Serum The Drunk Elephant C-Firma is a lightweight serum that promises to give skin a glow by combining the brightening powers of vitamin C with ferulic acid, l-ascorbic acid, and vitamin E. The included sodium hyaluronate is meant to replace hydration loss, so you shouldn’t have to deal with any irritation. Sunday Riley C.E.O. Rapid Flash Brightening Serum This potent serum is jam-packed with vitamin C (15 percent, to be exact), which means it’s a potential superstar at both brightening skin and dousing it in antioxidants. Peptides Using peptides on your skin has many benefits, says Somenek. “The skin barrier is what defends the body against pollution, UV rays, bacteria, and toxins. It can be damaged by several everyday factors. Using topical peptides aids in building a stronger barrier,” he says. “Peptides comprise elastic fibers, which are a type of protein. These fibers help to make skin appear taut and firm. Peptides can also help repair damaged skin, relieve inflammation, and even out skin tone. Some peptides can kill acne-causing bacteria that is common in 20-somethings.” Kunin agrees, saying, “Peptides are an excellent entry point for supporting collagen.” She recommends looking for face and eye treatments that contain these collagen-boosting powerhouses. Charlotte Tilbury Magic Eye Rescue Cream This Charlotte Tilbury super-emollient eye cream has a base of coconut oil and shea butter (read: it’s incredibly hydrating). Botanicals plus peptides are meant to help reduce dark circles and boost collagen, respectively. This creamy moisturizer serves up potent collagen-boosting peptides and pycnogenol, and antioxidant-rich vitamin C. “Instead of sitting on top of the skin, peptides penetrate the outer layer so they go deep. The ‘signals’ they send tell the cells to produce elastin and collagen, which are needed for youthful-looking skin,” explains Somenek. At-Home Peel Pads Remember that skin cell turnover fiasco we talked about earlier? One way to help support it is by exfoliating. “Exfoliation is important to help keep skin fresh and luminous,” Kunin says. She recommends using at-home peel pads as an easy and effective way to exfoliate. “The goal in your 20s is to fight the slowing pace of cell turnover. It is wise to use products that gently exfoliate, yet still remove oil and other impurities. Products that have Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA) or Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHA) are a good choice.” According to Somenek, you should only exfoliate two to three times a week. “People of all ages are guilty of over-exfoliating and that can be too much of a good thing,” he says. Dermadoctor Kakadu C Intensive Vitamin C Peel Pad A few swipes of this Derma Doctor powerful peel pad promise to leave your skin glowing and smooth, thanks to the seven (yes, seven) types of chemical exfoliants, including AHA and BHA. It also contains vitamin C via Kakadu plum extract for added brightening and antioxidant protection. KEY INGREDIENTS Kakadu plum extract is sourced from the Kakadu plum, a fruit grown in northern Australia. It contains vitamin C, which restores the skin’s natural barrier, increases collagen production, and soothes irritation. Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta® Universal Daily Peel Pads These are the gold standard of peel pads, with a cult following and over 900 five-star reviews on Sephora. They’re easy to use and contain a blend of anti-aging exfoliating acids. Emollient Night Cream “In your 20s, you need to start upping the hydration in your skincare routine. You may have been cautious of over-moisturizing because of acne in your teens, but as you enter your 20s, your skin transitions and becomes drier,” Ross says. “I recommend an emollient night cream added into your evening skincare regimen.” “Twenty-somethings need to make sure that they are not using creams that will clog their pores and cause excess oil production,” says Somenek. Opt for non-comedogenic products. Cerave Skin Renewing Night Cream One great choice is the CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream, which is a non-comedogenic night cream that leaves skin soft and glowy. It combines the moisturizing powers of ceramides and hyaluronic acid. RoC Retinol Correxion Max Hydration Creme “The best night cream ingredients contain retinol, benzoyl peroxide, and/or salicylic acid or hyaluronic acid. The goal is to moisturize, yet remove excess oil,” says Somenek. This Roc Retinol Correxion cream fits the bill as it contains both hyaluronic acid and retinol so it promises to moisturize while also being non-comedogenic.

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