Why You Shouldn’t Pick at Breakouts

Acne can be frustrating, especially when it shows up out of nowhere and then takes forever to heal.

So, it’s no wonder that many patients try to speed things up by popping or picking at their pimples.

However, dermatologists warn that this behavior can have quite the opposite effect.

In fact, popping a pimple can not only spread bacteria and cause further irritation, but it can also lead to scarring and hyperpigmentation.

What’s more, these unwanted side effects can stick around much longer than the initial pimple.

Keep reading to learn why patients with skin of color are especially susceptible to dark spots that come from picking at breakouts.

What Happens When You Pick at Breakouts?

Whether you’re dealing with a blackhead, whitehead, papule, nodule, or cyst, it’s not a good idea to squeeze, pop, or pick at a breakout.

That’s because these actions can force inflammation deeper in the skin, initiating a wound healing response from melanocytes.

And the deeper the inflammation, the darker the spot it leaves behind.

How Patients With Skin of Color Can Limit Hyperpigmentation and Scarring From Acne?

The best way to limit hyperpigmentation and acne scarring in skin of color, is avoiding breakouts in the first place.

That’s why prevention and a consistent, well-developed skincare regimen is essential for a clear, smooth, and bright complexion.

Five Tip for Preventing Acne in Patients With Skin of Color

1. Cleanse

Use a gentle cleanser in the morning and evening to wash away oil, dirt, bacteria, and debris from the skin.

2. Wear Sunscreen

Because sun exposure can actually make hyperpigmentation worse, it’s important that patients with skin of color apply a daily moisturizer that has a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least a 30 SPF.

3.  Use Anti-Acne Treatments

Products containing benzoyl-peroxide, salicylic acid, azelaic acid, and glycolic acid can all help combat acne.

Patients should apply an anti-acne serum, cream, or gel at bedtime after they cleanse and moisturize their faces.

4. Never Pick a Pimple With Your Fingers

If you must pop a pimple, aesthetic experts recommend holding a warm washcloth against the blemish for 30-60 seconds.

Then, very gently press a clean tool like a Q-tip against the pimple, and never use your fingers.

5. Exfoliate

Weekly exfoliation is an excellent way to prevent acne, as it removes dead skin cells that can mix with sebum to clog pores and cause breakouts.   

For additional information on acne in people with skin of color, please call our office today to schedule a consultation.