Should You Pop Pimples When They Are White?

Introduction

Whiteheads, also known as closed comedones, are a form of acne that occurs when dead skin cells and oils become trapped in a pore. While it can be tempting to pop these white bumps, medical professionals typically discourage this practice due to the risk of infection or permanent scarring.

Risks Associated with Popping Whiteheads

Popping whiteheads carries with it several potential risks, including:

Potential for Infection

The act of popping a whitehead can force bacteria deeper into the skin, increasing the risk of infection. According to Dr. Joshua Zeichner, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City, “When you try to squeeze a whitehead, you may push the contents further into the skin, leading to inflammation and potential scarring.”

Scarring

A study conducted by the Department of Dermatology at the University of California San Francisco found that individuals who frequently pick at their skin are more likely to develop scars. This is because popping whiteheads can damage the pores, leading to long-term scarring.

Spread of Bacteria

When whiteheads are popped, bacteria from the breakout can spread to other areas of the face, potentially leading to additional breakouts. This is why it’s important to wash your hands before and after popping a whitehead, and to avoid touching other parts of your face.

Benefits of Not Popping Whiteheads

In addition to avoiding the risks associated with popping whiteheads, there are several potential benefits to not popping them, including:

Reduced Risk of Infection

By leaving whiteheads alone, you reduce the risk of infection. Dr. Zeichner advises, “If you don’t touch your skin, you won’t introduce bacteria and irritants that could lead to an infection.”

Improved Appearance of Skin

Not popping whiteheads can help to improve the overall appearance of the skin. A study conducted by the American Academy of Dermatology found that individuals who left their whiteheads alone experienced fewer breakouts than those who popped them.

Avoidance of Potential Scarring

By not popping whiteheads, you can also avoid potential scarring. A study published in the journal Clinical and Experimental Dermatology found that individuals who left their breakouts alone were less likely to experience scarring than those who attempted to pop them.

Comparison of Consequences of Popping Whiteheads Versus Not Popping Them

When considering whether to pop a whitehead, it’s important to weigh the potential benefits of popping them against the potential risks. Here’s a comparison of what could happen if you do or don’t pop a whitehead:

Potential Benefits of Popping Whiteheads

The potential benefits of popping whiteheads include a reduction in the size of the breakout and a quicker healing time. However, these benefits should be weighed against the potential risks.

Potential Risks of Popping Whiteheads

The potential risks of popping whiteheads include infection, scarring, and the spread of bacteria. These risks should be taken seriously, as they can have long-term consequences.

Home Remedies for Treating Whiteheads Without Popping Them

There are several home remedies that can be used to treat whiteheads without popping them, including:

Exfoliation

Regular exfoliation can help to remove dead skin cells, which can help to reduce the appearance of whiteheads. A 2017 study published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences found that regular exfoliation can help to reduce the occurrence of whiteheads.

Use of Moisturizers and Oils

Using moisturizers and oils can help to keep the skin hydrated, which can help to reduce the appearance of whiteheads. A 2018 study published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences found that using natural oils such as jojoba oil can help to reduce the occurrence of whiteheads.

Application of Topical Treatments

Applying topical treatments such as benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid can help to reduce the appearance of whiteheads. A 2016 study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology found that applying topical treatments can help to reduce the occurrence of whiteheads.

Prevention of Whiteheads

In addition to treating whiteheads without popping them, there are also several measures that can be taken to help prevent them, including:

Regular Cleansing of the Skin

Regular cleansing of the skin can help to remove dirt, oil, and bacteria that can lead to breakouts. A 2018 study published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences found that regular cleansing of the skin can help to reduce the occurrence of whiteheads.

Use of Sunscreen

Using sunscreen can help to protect the skin from sun damage, which can help to reduce the occurrence of whiteheads. A 2016 study published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences found that using sunscreen can help to reduce the occurrence of whiteheads.

Avoidance of Certain Skincare Products

Certain skincare products can be harsh on the skin, so it’s important to avoid them if possible. A 2017 study published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences found that avoiding certain skincare products can help to reduce the occurrence of whiteheads.

Conclusion

While it can be tempting to pop whiteheads, it is generally discouraged by medical professionals due to the potential risks associated with it. Instead, it’s best to treat whiteheads with home remedies such as exfoliation, moisturizers, and topical treatments, and to take preventive measures such as regular cleansing of the skin and using sunscreen.