To Pop or Not To Pop: Do's and Don'ts for Pimples

Radhika Hitkari | Nov 27, 2025, 16:00 IST

Pimples are a common issue that many people face, which sometimes reduces people's confidence and makes them feel low. However, there are multiple ways in which pimples can be treated. In this article, we will discuss whether pimples should be popped or not and what should be its dos and don'ts are.

Popping the pimples is a common practice; however, dermatologists strictly advise against it, especially at home, as it increases the risk of infection and scarring. Popping the pimples can feel very tempting, but it's important to know the risks against it. Apart from scarring and infection, popping the pimples can lead to inflammation as well.



Popping the pimples can interfere with the skin's natural healing process, and it can force the bacteria and pus deeper in the skin, which can lead to a breakout or permanent damage.



The Do's of Popping Pimples


popping pimples


Use a cleanser: It's important to use a cleanser which is non irritating and is gentle on the face as harsh soaps or cleansers can remove the natural oil from the skin which can lead to irritation and dryness.



Use warm compress: This helps in softening the skin before squeezing the pimple and make the extraction of contents of the pimple easier.



Apply antiseptic: Use a antiseptic lotion in the treated area to prevent any infection or bacteria in the skin and apply a moisturizer to keep the skin hydrated and moist.



Clean the area: After squeezing out the pimple make sure to clean the area with a cleanser to prevent further breakouts and keep the skin healthy.



Use acne patches: This can hep in preventing to keep picking at the pimple and help in extracting the contents from the pimple. It can also help in covering the blemishes.



The Don'ts of Popping Pimples


pimple pop


Don't touch the face frequently: Touching the face with dirty or unclean hands can cause bacteria and also increase the breakout.



Avoid Makeup: Do not apply makeup on a freshly popped pimple as that can trap the bacteria and to a delay in the healing process.



Avoid using unsterilized tools: Using tools that are uncleaned or non sterilized can cause serious infection in the skin.



Do not squeeze too hard: This can cause the content of the pimples to go deep inside the skin and cause more inflammation and scarring.



Don't use fingers: Using fingers to can lead to more scarring and inflammation and also introduce more bacteria to the area.



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Frequently asked questions (FAQs)



  1. What naturally kills acne?
    Natural acne remedies include topical applications of tea tree oil, aloe vera, and diluted apple cider vinegar, which have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
  2. How does sleep affect pimples?
    Inadequate sleep can lead to acne through hormonal imbalances, increased inflammation, and impaired skin repair.
  3. Why acne on face?
    Acne is caused by having dirty skin and poor hygiene.
  4. Why do girls face pimples?
    Pimples on a female face are primarily caused by hormonal fluctuations, especially during menstruation, puberty, or pregnancy, which trigger excess oil (sebum) production.
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