How to Pop a Zit

Would you like to learn how to pop a zit properly? Well I'll tell you how to minimize the damage as much as possible if you decide to pop a pimple.

I usually recommend not popping zits at all, because of the risk of scarring and infection. I also understand people will still pop a zit now and then, like when you get one smack dab in the middle of your forehead. Just don't let it turn into a habit.

I've written a different article that goes into more detail as to why you shouldn't be pimple popping or skin picking. Some people turn this ritual into a serious problem.

Please only try to pop zits (ex. pustules) with a ripe whitehead. I'm talking about the ones that will practically break on their own by accident after a shower/shaving etc.

How to Pop a Zit

1. Cleanse Your Face - Wash your face thoroughly, or at least the area with the pimple. Using a high-quality cleanser is best. Rinse with warm water to make your skin as supple as possible, which will make it easier for the skin to break. Exfoliating the skin with salicylic acid or an equivalent is an optional step that will also help break the skin and may make using a needle unnecessary.
2. Get a Sterilized Needle - Grab a sewing needle or a pin and get it sterilized. You can do this by dipping it in alcohol, running it over an open flame, or boiling it in water (give it some time to cool off obviously).
3. Prepare Your Hands - Either wash your hands thoroughly or have your two index fingers wrapped in tissue paper. The goal here is to protect the skin on your face from the dirt and bacteria on your fingers, as well as potential irritation from your fingernails.
4. Pop the Pimple - Gently poke the zit with the needle so the skin breaks. Press your two index fingers on your skin, on opposite sides of the zit. Push your fingers together gently while trying to get "under" the zit. You may need to do this a few times to get as much of the pus as you can. Also, you want to try and minimize any bacteria/pus/sebum from going deeper into the skin.
5. Clean the Pore - You now want to clean the pore of any extra bacteria. Gently press a tissue on the pore to soak up the extra oil. If there is blood this generally means you were too harsh on your zit with the procedure. Use hydrogen peroxide, benzoyl peroxide, lemon juice, or your favorite mask/spot treatment to assist with cleaning the pore to let it heal as quickly as possible.

These steps are only on how to pop a zit. If you have a nodule or cyst do not try to pop it, you will only make things worse. By following this process you will minimize your chances of any scarring, infection, as well as the healing time.

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