Why you should never squeeze pimples
Written together with skincare therapist Rebecca
Pimples and acne are a recurring problem for many people. When that white head appears, it can be hard to keep your fingers away. Here are a few reasons why you should stop immediately.
Summary
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Squeezing pimples can worsen inflammation by damaging the sebaceous gland and forcing bacteria deeper into the skin.
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This increases the risk of scarring, dark marks and slower healing compared to letting the skin heal naturally.
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For best results, use targeted spot treatments and gentle exfoliating products instead of squeezing pimples by hand.
What happens when you squeeze
Squeezing a pimple can damage the sebaceous gland and thereby worsen inflammation, which only makes the situation worse. If the pimple is not mature and you apply excessive pressure, the damage can be even greater.
If you’ve already picked at it, you may have to live with the consequences for quite some time. Squeezing pimples increases the risk of scarring, which can leave dark marks on the skin. Instead, focus on spot treatments for pimples.
What about blackheads?
Squeezing blackheads (the small black dots that appear on the face, most commonly on the nose) is difficult and should ideally be left to a professional. Proper technique is required to avoid inflammation and scarring, and the skin must be well prepared beforehand.
If you absolutely must, use a gentle exfoliating mask first and gently warm the skin with a moderately warm towel. Make sure your hands are clean or use a proper tool.
Unfortunately, pore size is largely genetic and difficult to change. However, clay masks can have a pore-tightening effect and make pores appear smaller.
Products and ingredients that help
If you struggle with pimples and impurities, skincare products containing BHA acid can be very effective. BHA stands for Beta Hydroxy Acid, also known as salicylic acid. BHA is excellent at dissolving sebum, dirt and oil trapped in the pores.
If you have developed scars
Finally – is it dangerous?
Some people may have heard that squeezing pimples can be life-threatening. So, is it a myth or the truth?
There is an area on the face often referred to as the danger triangle. This triangle is located between the eyes, over the nose and down towards the corners of the mouth. An infection anywhere within this area can, in rare cases, have serious consequences, as the blood vessels here lead directly to the brain. In extremely rare situations, an infection can spread to the central nervous system. So the answer is: it’s true — in very rare cases, squeezing pimples can be dangerous. However, the likelihood is extremely low. The main reason not to squeeze pimples is ultimately not the risk of death, but the increased risk of more breakouts and permanent scarring.