How to correctly pop a pimple without damaging the skin
If you’re reading this, you have definitely been too aggressive with your skin and paid the price. We all do it. Even when you know all of the correct steps, a really good mirror and bad lighting can make us weak and start picking. But let’s hope from now and on we will take care of them correctly. This is your guide to a step-by-step process on how to pop a pimple correctly. If you start popping pimples in this way you will notice that they heal super fast and you’re left with half as much redness and bump. From now on, the new you will handle this better, and be left with happier skin for it. So let’s jump in!
Step 1: Assess the Pimple
Before taking any action, make sure the pimple is ready to be popped. This means:
The whitehead has been visible for at least 10 hours (preferably 24 hours).
There’s no redness or swelling indicating it's still developing.
If the pimple isn’t fully ready, don’t do it. You know it’s just going to be painful. Trust in this process. It is for the best. No picking and touching if it’s not ready either. If you are really antsy and have some time on your hands you can take a warm compress and hold it on the area. This can help pull the puss closer to the surface, but it’s not a guarantee.
Step 2: Choose the Right Moment
Attempt popping when you are not in a rush and have no where to be soon. You want to do this carefully. Don’t pop pimples in public restrooms or mirrors. You will be left with a red spot and it’s not a cute look. If you see that a pimple is ready and you’re in a public place - wait until you are home to take care of it. And again: no picking or touching that area. Your hands are dirty and can make a small thing much worse by irritating it.
Step 3: Warm Things Up
When you apply heat to the skin, it softens and will be able to release trapped puss without excessive pressure. This is EXACTLY what we want because normally people pop pimples on dry, cold skin and you have to put in a bunch of effort and squeezing to release the puss.
Here's how to prep your pimple for gentle popping:
Take a clean Q-tip or wash your fingers thoroughly with antibacterial soap.
Run the Q-tip or your finger under hot water for 1–2 minutes.
Gently press the warm Q-tip or finger onto the pimple for 1 minute. This will open up the pore and prep it for safe extraction.
Step 4: The Gentle Technique
Now you are ready to release the pus. Instead of squeezing (never again!), try a pulling-apart method. This allows the puss to come out with very little effort. If you don’t follow the above steps, the pull-apart method may not work. Your pimple must be really ready and fully prepped for this to work.
How to do the “pulling-apart” method:
Wash hands.
Place clean fingers on either side of the pimple.
Slowly and gently pull the skin outward, as if you’re stretching it apart.
This technique applies even pressure, encouraging the pus to naturally release without causing trauma to the surrounding skin.
If no pus comes out easily, the pimple isn’t ready—stop and refer to step 1.
Step 5: Clean Up with Care
Once the pimple has been popped, wash your hands again and use witch hazel to clean the area. Witch hazel’s natural astringent properties will help reduce inflammation and prevent infection. Essentially witch hazel is going to absorb any left over fluids that sometimes lead to a pimple forming again in the same spot. It also calms the skin which will take away redness but at the same time promote healing. It is a hack!
Take a cotton ball or pad and dampen it with witch hazel.
Gently wipe or tap the area to remove any excess liquid and calm the skin.
Why This Method Works
This approach minimizes trauma to the skin, preventing unnecessary damage that can lead to scarring or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). By using warmth and gentle pressure, you’re allowing the skin to release the pus without forcing it, keeping the healing process on track.
Aftercare Tips
Avoid touching or picking at the area after popping.
Apply a hydrating, non-comedogenic moisturizer to support healing.
Use sunscreen daily to protect the healing skin from darkening or scarring.
Remember, the best way to deal with pimples is to prevent them with a consistent skincare routine and healthy habits. But if you must pop, this guide ensures you do it safely and responsibly!
This is the best and most effective way to take care of pimples. If you like unique and natural ways to take care of your skin, I have a guide on exactly how to manifest clear skin. Sounds crazy but for me healing my acne was a combinational of taking natural steps and also believing I was worthy of clear skin. Once I focussed on how my skin could be, I believed it was possible. I put together an e-book on exactly how I manifested clear skin and how you can too. Sign up below to the clear skin academy newsletter, get the free e-book and try a new approach to healing your skin naturally!
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