Squeezing pimples is something that many, if not all, acne sufferers are guilty of.
Although dermatologists - and common sense - urge against any manipulation of acne lesions, including blackheads, whiteheads, cysts, and nodules, many of us still do it from time to time.
The reason NOT to do it is simple: manipulating pimples may lead to worsening of acne lesion and scarring.
Dermatology textbooks are full of graphic and disturbing pictures of massive inflammation, swelling, damage to blood vessels and scar tissue that result from squeezing pimples.
Of course, these far-off potential consequences are one thing - and something that most acne sufferers are well aware of; however, when you have to leave the house with a pointed pus bump on your face, it's often hard to be reasonable and resist to the urge to "do something".
Before you resort to squeezing, there are some less drastic things you can do to make your pimples less visible: - Use ice to rub the affected area.
Application of cold, such as taking an ice cube and rubbing it against the spot for several minutes a few times a day can help reduce redness and swelling of the affected area.
It will also help decrease any inflammation and pain.
- Cucumbers have been known for being good for your skin.
Peel the cucumber and cut it in thin slices or make a paste.
Put it on your face and let it sit for at least 20 minutes.
This should be enough time to soak into your skin pores.
- Apply some toothpaste to the affected area for a few hours or overnight.
- Use makeup to conceal the pimple.
Just be sure to use oil-free makeup products, and to remove it before going to bed.
- Wash your skin delicately twice a day with mild soap or cleanser.
Then apply a little bit cream or ointment with benzoyl peroxide (not recommended if you have very delicate skin).
Now, if you absolutely must squeeze a pimple, I suggest that you at least use these tips to decrease the risk of scarring: 1.
Gently cleanse the area with alcohol and use a washcloth to apply moist heat with gentle pressure for a few minutes.
Warm compress will reduce the force needed to express the pus when squeezing pimples.
2.
Using a gauze pad or facial tissue, GENTLY apply pressure to either side of the lesion with your index fingers.
3.
Once the pus or blackhead has been expressed, stop squeezing right away! Any additional squeezing or manipulation will lead to more inflammation and possible entering of bacteria into the skin, both of which will increase the likelihood of scarring.
WARNING: Do not EVER try to squeeze an inflamed pimple that is just a red, headless bump, deep under your skin! There is no way you can squeeze it out, instead you will most likely make it worse and much more likely to leave a permanent scar.
Although dermatologists - and common sense - urge against any manipulation of acne lesions, including blackheads, whiteheads, cysts, and nodules, many of us still do it from time to time.
The reason NOT to do it is simple: manipulating pimples may lead to worsening of acne lesion and scarring.
Dermatology textbooks are full of graphic and disturbing pictures of massive inflammation, swelling, damage to blood vessels and scar tissue that result from squeezing pimples.
Of course, these far-off potential consequences are one thing - and something that most acne sufferers are well aware of; however, when you have to leave the house with a pointed pus bump on your face, it's often hard to be reasonable and resist to the urge to "do something".
Before you resort to squeezing, there are some less drastic things you can do to make your pimples less visible: - Use ice to rub the affected area.
Application of cold, such as taking an ice cube and rubbing it against the spot for several minutes a few times a day can help reduce redness and swelling of the affected area.
It will also help decrease any inflammation and pain.
- Cucumbers have been known for being good for your skin.
Peel the cucumber and cut it in thin slices or make a paste.
Put it on your face and let it sit for at least 20 minutes.
This should be enough time to soak into your skin pores.
- Apply some toothpaste to the affected area for a few hours or overnight.
- Use makeup to conceal the pimple.
Just be sure to use oil-free makeup products, and to remove it before going to bed.
- Wash your skin delicately twice a day with mild soap or cleanser.
Then apply a little bit cream or ointment with benzoyl peroxide (not recommended if you have very delicate skin).
Now, if you absolutely must squeeze a pimple, I suggest that you at least use these tips to decrease the risk of scarring: 1.
Gently cleanse the area with alcohol and use a washcloth to apply moist heat with gentle pressure for a few minutes.
Warm compress will reduce the force needed to express the pus when squeezing pimples.
2.
Using a gauze pad or facial tissue, GENTLY apply pressure to either side of the lesion with your index fingers.
3.
Once the pus or blackhead has been expressed, stop squeezing right away! Any additional squeezing or manipulation will lead to more inflammation and possible entering of bacteria into the skin, both of which will increase the likelihood of scarring.
WARNING: Do not EVER try to squeeze an inflamed pimple that is just a red, headless bump, deep under your skin! There is no way you can squeeze it out, instead you will most likely make it worse and much more likely to leave a permanent scar.
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