To effectively avoid scarring after popping a pimple, it is crucial to follow a professional approach. Before attempting any extractions, it is essential to cleanse the area thoroughly with a gentle cleanser, removing all dirt and excess oil. Then, sterilize a needle or pin by either boiling it for several minutes or using rubbing alcohol.
Before you get into popping and scarring, it helps to understand how your acne bump forms to begin with. A pimple goes through three stages: the initial, middle and the final one. “The initial stage is triggered by excess oil production due to hormonal changes such as excessive androgen, no matter your age. This excess oil along with dead skin cells and dirt clogs your pores. The clogged material develops as blackheads (open comedones) and whiteheads (closed comedone),” explains Dr Agarwal.
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This stage can last for a few days or even a few weeks if you’re dealing with the kind of bump that lives under your skin. “Then starts the middle stage where the pimple comes to the surface as a red visible papule known as inflammatory acne.” This is where the P.acnes bacteria starts to attack your skin and grows into an angry spot and can last for upto a week.
The white fluid that fills up your bump is from inflammation and your body’s immune response to the bacteria growing there. This, of course, is the stage where it is most visible, increasing the urge to burst it in an attempt to subside it. The final stage of the pimple is when it dries out and starts to scab, on its way out of your skin, bringing the possibility of leaving a scar.
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However if you must pop it, gently puncture the pimple’s head at its lowest point, avoiding excessive pressure or squeezing to prevent further damage. Afterward, clean the area again with an antiseptic solution such as witch hazel to kill bacteria. Refrain from picking at scabs that may form and instead keep the area moisturized with an oil-free lotion to aid in healing and reduce chances of scarring.
Applying topical acne treatments containing ingredients like benzoyl peroxide may also help prevent infection and promote skin rejuvenation. By adhering strictly to these professional guidelines, individuals can minimize the risk of scarring and achieve clearer skin without leaving behind lasting blemishes.
Hope this article was helpful?