Why Popping Pimples and Blackheads Causes More Harm Than Good

Understanding Blackheads

Blackheads are a type of acne that form when dead skin cells, oil, and bacteria clog up a hair follicle. The pore remains open, allowing oxygen to reach the plug and cause it to oxidize, turning black. Blackheads primarily affect the face, especially the nose, chin, and forehead.

What Causes Blackheads?

Blackheads form as a result of:

• Excess oil production
• Buildup of dead skin cells
• Accumulation of bacteria
• Enlarged pores
• Hormonal changes

Picking at blackheads can damage pores and spread bacteria, leading to more breakouts. That's why dermatologists caution against popping them.

Why You Shouldn't Pop Blackheads

It can be oh so tempting to pop those little black bumps, but squeezing blackheads often does more harm than good. Here's why you're better off leaving them alone:

1. Causes Scarring

Forcibly removing a blackhead risks permanently enlarging the pore or creating a scar. Picking can damage the pore wall, impairing its ability to tighten.

2. Spreads Bacteria

Squeezing a blackhead pushes bacteria deeper into the skin, causing more acne breakouts. Bacteria can also spread to surrounding pores.

3. Delays Healing

Picking prevents the blackhead from naturally working its way out of the pore over time. This delays the healing process.

4. Creates PIH

Overzealous picking can rupture blood vessels beneath the skin, leading to red or brown spots from post inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH).

5. Makes More Blackheads

Aggressive squeezing irritates the pore, triggering it to produce even more oil and dead skin. This can fill the pore again, regenerating blackheads.

Dermatologist-Approved Ways to Remove Blackheads

Instead of squeezing them out, use these methods recommended by board-certified dermatologists to gently and effectively extract blackheads:

1. Salicylic Acid

Products containing beta-hydroxy acids like salicylic acid help dissolve dead skin and oil inside pores to clear out blackheads. It also has antimicrobial properties to kill acne-causing bacteria.

2. Retinol

Topical retinol products promote skin cell turnover and reduce oil production. This can help banish existing blackheads and prevent new ones from forming.

3. Benzoyl Peroxide

Benzoyl peroxide is an anti-inflammatory that kills bacteria deep inside pores, drying out blackheads. It's often found in acne face washes and spot treatments.

4. AHA Exfoliants

Exfoliating acids like glycolic, lactic and mandelic acid remove dead skin cells from the surface and inside pores to lift out blackheads.

5. BHA Peels

In-office chemical peels containing beta hydroxy acids penetrate deeply into pores, dissolving oil buildup and debris to extract blackheads.

6. Extractions

If performed correctly, professional extractions by an esthetician or dermatologist can safely remove stubborn blackheads. Never try to extract them at home.

7. Pore Strips

Pore strips cling to blackheads and painlessly extract them when peeled off. Use them as directed 1-2 times per week to remove surface blackheads.

Lifestyle Changes to Reduce Blackheads

In addition to topical treatments, try making these lifestyle adjustments to keep blackheads from returning:

Cleanse Twice Daily

Washing morning and evening removes impurities that clog pores. Use a gentle acne cleanser with salicylic acid.

Moisturize

Apply an oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturizer to hydrate skin without clogging pores. Hydrated skin produces less oil.

Exfoliate Regularly

Gently exfoliate 2-3 times a week to keep dead skin from building up. Chemical exfoliants with AHAs and BHAs work best.

Avoid Excessive Face Touching

Keep hands off the face throughout the day to minimize bacteria transfer to pores.

Use Oil-Absorbing Products

Blotting papers, kaolin clay masks, and oil-absorbing primer helps control excess sebum production.

Wear Noncomedogenic Makeup

When makeup shopping, check that the product is labeled noncomedogenic so it won't clog pores.

Shower After Working Out

Rinse off sweat to remove bacteria and pore-clogging grit after exercise. Change out of sweaty clothes promptly.

Keep Stress in Check

Stress spikes oil-triggering hormones like cortisol. Reduce anxiety through exercise, meditation, therapy, or other relaxation methods.

When to See a Dermatologist

Most blackheads can be managed at home with a strategic skin care regimen. But you may need professional treatment if:

• Blackheads cover a large facial area
• Over-the-counter methods aren't working after 8 weeks
• Blackheads won't budge from squeezing or picking
• You develop scarring or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
• Blackheads are accompanied by red, inflamed pimples

A dermatologist has access to prescription-strength acne treatments and can perform extractions if blackheads become severe. Seek an evaluation if you have concerns.

When to Stop Picking at Blackheads

Refrain from squeezing if you notice:

• Increased blackheads
• Spread of acne to new areas
• Development of pus-filled pimples
• Scabs or open wounds
• Redness that persists for days
• Scarring

These are signs that picking is worsening breakouts. Immediately stop touching your face and let your skin heal.

The Takeaway on Popping Blackheads

As tempting as it is to pick, squeezing blackheads almost always causes more problems than it solves. Damaging your skin by picking can lead to scars and the spread of bacteria that triggers additional breakouts.

Instead, be patient and stick to a regular skin care routine with over-the-counter treatments or prescription-strength products from your dermatologist. This will clear up blackheads safely and prevent new ones from forming.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.