Pimple Popping: Why only a dermatologist should do it 

Pimples and spots are something that blights many of our complexions. While acne is often presumed to be a condition that only affects teenagers, nothing could be further from the truth. The condition is common in those of any age—in fact, 80% of people suffer from at least one outbreak during their life.

Popping pimples might well have achieved cult status—you only need to Google the subject to see how obsessed we are with doing this. However, it’s one of the worst things any acne sufferer can do. Untrained pimple popping is one of the most common causes of worsening infection and skin scarring. 

Read on to discover the reasons behind this and why the only person who you should ever allow to pop a pimple on your skin should be an expert dermatologist. 

All About Acne 

• The different types of acne
• Acne treatment

The different types of acne

Acne takes many different forms. Some of the most common are as follows: 

• Blackheads and whiteheads: These occur when the pores become clogged with bacteria, dead skin cells, and excess oil. If the pore closes over this it manifests in a small, white-topped bump, known as a whitehead. If the pore remains open, then it appears black—hence the description of blackhead. 
• Papules: These occur when the clogged pore pushes the debris further into the skin, causing inflammation. It appears as a small, red bump. Many can occur in close proximity, making the skin very rough to the touch.
• Pustules: If a papule becomes infected, then pus will collect below the skin. This appears as a swollen, reddened area with a white or yellow-colored center.
• Nodules and cysts: These are more severe spots that penetrate deep into the skin. It can leave permanent scars and requires professional dermatological treatment.

Acne treatment 

Treatment for acne depends on the severity. Whiteheads and blackheads are treated by unclogging the pores, This can be done using a retinoid product and a benzoyl peroxide wash. Results are not instant, typically taking up to 8 weeks to reduce the symptoms. In some cases, prescription-strength products are needed or a further procedure, known as blackhead and/or whitehead extraction. 

Papules are often treated in a similar manner, with a key feature being regular face washing. Acne nodules and cysts require specialist dermatological treatment.

All About Pimple Popping

• The dangers of pimple popping

The dangers of pimple popping

While it can be tempting to squeeze a pimple or acne blemish, there are many reasons why it should only be carried out by a professional. Done incorrectly, it can cause: 

• Infection
• More painful symptoms
• More noticeable symptoms
• Permanent scarring

This is because when you pop a pimple, you risk pushing the contents deeper into the skin, so worsening the problem. You can also get bacteria on your hands that can cause further infection.

When a dermatologist pops a pimple, they have a variety of different techniques to call upon. One of these is called acne extraction—a treatment for blackheads and whiteheads—and is utilized if the first-line treatments fail to have the desired effect.

For a single deep acne cyst, a dermatologist might choose to inject a steroid into the blemish. However, this can’t be used excessively as steroids have to be used with caution, due to a variety of side effects. Another option is to open the blemish with a needle or blade and remove the debris inside. This can be used to drain a particularly troublesome cyst or nodule.

All of these popping and cleaning techniques must only be performed by a dermatologist. Even the simple act of popping a small acne spot can cause further infection if carried out wrongly, worsening the condition and resulting in further treatment becoming necessary.

Let Bayou City Dermatology Define the Right Acne Treatment for You

Over 40 million Americans suffer from acne at any one time. Seeking expert dermatological advice at the earliest opportunity can dramatically reduce the physical and emotional stress that the condition causes. 

No one does this better than the professionals at Bayou City Dermatology. Discover why we’re the chosen clinic for those who demand the ultimate in acne treatment at https://www.bayoucitydermatology.com/clinical/acne-treatment and get in touch to book an appointment today.