Not all pimples are made for popping. "You really shouldn't pop any kind of blemish unless it has come to a white or yellow head," cautions Lee. If the pimple has a head, it's OK to squeeze because it means the bump is very superficial to the surface of the skin, making the risk for permanent scarring very minimal, she adds. As an overarching rule, NEVER (like, ever) try to squeeze any type of cystic acne. "These blemishes are buried deep in the skin. Most of the time, nothing will come out of them anyway and prescription treatments are needed," she says.
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Keep It Extra Clean
Found a juicy one? Wash your hands (thoroughly, please), then wash your face. Gently press a warm washcloth against the blemish for a few minutes. This helps soften the gunk inside the pores, making for easier excavation. Then — pay attention, because this part is key — use a comedone extractor instead of your grimy fingers (yes, they're still dirty, even though you washed your hands). We're big fans of the Dr. Pimple Popper Comedone Extractor, $20. "Gently apply pressure around the circumference of the blemish to help ease out the contents of the clogged pore," advises Lee.
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Know When to Stop
Usually, you'll know that a pimple has been completely drained once there's no more pus coming out. "If you start to see a little blood, stop squeezing. Continuing to do so only leads to more swelling, redness, and possible scarring," says Lee. And if you started the popping process but nothing is coming out to begin with, stop immediately. This may not be a pimple that can be squeezed and it's best to see a derm if it doesn't go away or continues to get larger, she adds.
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Post-Care Is Important
Post-pop, Lee recommends pressing a cold washcloth against the skin, it will help calm any inflammation and unsightly redness. Next, use a teeny-tiny bit of rubbing alcohol to disinfect just the area. The finishing touch? A spot treatment to help keep the skin clear. Those containing salicylic acid, like Philosophy Clear Days Ahead Fast-Acting Salicylic Acid Acne Spot Treatment, $19, are one good option, though Lee notes that if your skin is on the sensitive side, a sulfur-based option is your best bet. One to try: Kate Somerville EradiKate Acne Treatment, $26.
