Popping pimples

Popping pimples may be satisfying, but it most likely prolongs the misery. There are other ways to help in healing and improve your skin appearance.

Have an unsightly acne pimple on your face? Resist the temptation to squeeze it and/or rub multiple over-the-counter products on it.

The first step in that pimple was a plug in the hair follicle (called a comedone), and it happened days or weeks ago. What you see now is the result of inflammation from your immune system, and it won’t go away overnight no matter what you do. It’s the unfortunate truth.

Popping pimples may be satisfying, but it most likely prolongs the misery: everything you see erupt also gets shoved down into the deeper layers of the skin. Harsh toners, astringents, and blemish removers only serve to make inflammation worse.

TIP: Warm compresses, steam, prescription medications or light treatment from your dermatologist, and ultimately time are your best allies in the war against unsightly zits. Remember, hands off!