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| Picking pimples spreads bacteria and causes lasting scars. Here is what to do instead. |
It is almost
impossible to resist picking a pimple. But every time you do, you risk making
it worse, spreading bacteria, and leaving a scar that takes weeks to fade. The
golden rule of skin care is simple: keep your hands off. For fast results,
check out our article on taking care of pimples faster with tea tree oil
which offers a much safer approach.
What Happens When You Pick
a Pimple
When you
squeeze or pick a pimple, you push bacteria deeper into the skin. This can
cause the pimple to become larger, more inflamed, and sometimes infected. It
also damages the surrounding skin tissue, which leads to dark spots and
permanent scars.
Picking vs. Not Picking a Pimple
|
If You Pick
It |
If You Leave It Alone |
|
Bacteria spreads to nearby
pores |
Bacteria stays contained |
|
Risk of infection increases |
Natural healing without infection |
|
Leaves dark post-acne marks |
Fades without leaving scars |
|
Healing takes longer |
Resolves faster naturally |
|
Can cause permanent scarring |
No lasting skin damage |
What to Do Instead of
Picking
Apply a spot
treatment with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide. Use a clean hydrocolloid
patch over the pimple to draw out the fluid without damaging the skin. Keep the
area clean and resist touching your face throughout the day.
Pimple Treatments That
Actually Work
|
Treatment |
How It Helps |
|
Hydrocolloid patch |
Draws out pus without
squeezing |
|
Salicylic acid spot gel |
Unclogs pores and reduces
size |
|
Tea tree oil |
Natural antibacterial that
shrinks pimples |
|
Benzoyl peroxide cream |
Kills acne-causing bacteria
directly |
|
Ice compress |
Reduces redness and
swelling quickly |
Affiliate-Recommended
Products
Two of the
best options for pimple care without picking are COSRX Acne Pimple Master
Patch — a hydrocolloid patch that works overnight — and The Ordinary
Salicylic Acid 2% Solution for daily spot treatment that clears pores
gently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do we feel the urge to pick pimples?
It is a
natural impulse. The brain registers picking as a way to fix a problem. But the
short-term satisfaction causes long-term skin damage.
How long does a pimple take to heal if you don't pick it?
A typical
pimple heals in three to seven days when left alone. Picking can extend this to
two to three weeks or longer.
Can picking pimples cause permanent scars?
Yes. Picking
breaks the skin tissue. If it heals with too much collagen, it forms a raised
scar. Too little collagen leaves an indented scar.
What is the best overnight treatment for a pimple?
A
hydrocolloid patch is the best overnight option. It absorbs fluid, reduces
redness, and protects the spot from further damage while you sleep.
Does toothpaste help pimples?
Some
toothpastes contain ingredients that dry out pimples, but they can also
irritate and burn skin. A proper spot treatment is a far better choice.
How do you fade a pimple scar naturally?
Vitamin C
serum, niacinamide, and sunscreen are the best tools. They brighten dark spots
and prevent further UV damage that makes them worse.
-> Related: Read Next: Exfoliate Your Hands Each Week for Softer,Younger-Looking Skin
