Should You Pop Pimples? The Dermatologist's Guide to Doing It Right

Table of Contents

Should You Pop Pimples? Here’s When It’s Safe (and When It’s Not)

It’s tempting — you see a whitehead forming, and your fingers are ready to strike. Popping pimples feels like a quick fix, but is it the right move for your skin? In this post, you’ll learn when (if ever) it’s safe to pop a pimple, what happens when you don’t follow the rules, and how to handle acne like a pro.

Why You Shouldn’t Pop Pimples (Most of the Time)

1. It Can Worsen Inflammation

Squeezing a pimple too soon can drive bacteria and pus deeper into your skin, causing even more redness, swelling, and future breakouts.

2. You Could Get Permanent Scars

Fingernails or dirty tools can tear the skin, leaving behind dark spots or permanent scars. A few seconds of squeezing can lead to years of regret.

3. Risk of Infection

Your hands carry bacteria, even when washed. Popping creates an open wound where germs can easily get in — leading to infected pimples, or worse, serious skin conditions like cellulitis.

When Is It Actually Okay to Pop a Pimple?

1. Only If It’s a “Mature” Whitehead

If your pimple has a visible white or yellow center, no swelling, and feels soft under the skin, it might be safe to pop. But only if you’re gentle and clean. Avoid anything deep, painful, or inflamed.

2. Pimples You Should Never Pop

Cystic acne: painful, deep lumps under the skin
Red, swollen bumps without a visible head
Acne in sensitive areas like around the lips or nose

These require medical treatment, not home extraction.

How to Safely Pop a Pimple (If You Really Must)

Wash your hands and sanitize your tools.
Apply a warm compress for 5–10 minutes to soften the skin.
Use a sterile comedone extractor or clean cotton swabs.
Apply gentle pressure around the pimple. Never dig or pinch hard.
Stop immediately if nothing comes out. Don’t force it.
Disinfect the area afterward and apply a healing ointment.

Still, the safest option is to let a dermatologist handle it. They know how to extract without damage.

Better Alternatives to Popping

1. Spot Treatments

Salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or retinoids help reduce inflammation and unclog pores — no squeezing necessary.

2. Pimple Patches

These hydrocolloid patches absorb pus, protect from bacteria, and prevent picking. They’re a smart, no-touch solution.

3. Dermatologist Treatments

Persistent acne or cysts? Book a visit. Prescription creams, extractions, and professional advice go further than any DIY remedy.

What About Pimple Popping Videos?

We get it — they’re weirdly satisfying. But keep in mind, those viral clips are done by pros under sterile conditions. Copying them at home could seriously damage your skin.

Final Takeaway: Don’t Pop on Impulse

If you’re unsure whether to pop a pimple — don’t. Most of the time, resisting the urge will protect your skin from scarring and infection. When in doubt, treat it, patch it, or get help from a dermatologist.

Your skin will thank you in the long run.

Should You Pop Pimples? The Dermatologist’s Guide to Doing It Right