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.
