What happens to your skin when you pop a pimple.

There are three risk factors for acne: an overproduction of oil, irregular shedding of dead skin, and bacteria build up. Skin is covered by pores, tiny openings in the surface, that allow sweat, hair follicle particles, and the body’s natural oil, called sebum, to pass through. Clogged pores result in pimples, whiteheads, blackheads, nodules, or cysts, depending on the severity of the condition.

Hormones are initially to blame for skin problems, but
it lessens as hormone levels stabilize during a person's mid twenties. For those who have been plagued with bad genes, the battle with acne will most likely continue long after adolescence. And for many, simple scrubs and facial cleaners won’t cut it. A more long-term solution is needed.

Popping pimples to try and minimize their appearance may seem like a good idea at the time, but it will likely do the opposite. The pimple contains sebum and bacteria beneath the surface of the skin, so when it’s squeezed, it can irritate the skin and increase the risk of infection. Excess sebum, dead skin cells, and bacteria are inadvertently forced deeper into the follicle, under the surface of the skin, which can cause the wall to rupture and cause infection. While you may get some satisfaction seeing a white head pop out, there is far more that didn’t make it out and gets trapped beneath the surface.

On the other hand, if you can resist the urge to pop a pimple, after about a week, the white contents will settle down into the skin or spontaneously pop when it’s ready. However, larger pimples, such as cysts, may require the help of a dermatologist in order to remove the contents of the pimple safely. This may involve an injection that decreases inflammation within a day or so, and reduces the risk of infection and scarring.

If irritated and popped, the pimple may leave permanent scars behind on the skin long after they naturally clear away, which could require cosmetic laser surgery to get rid of. Washing your face more, letting acne run its course, and tanning to mask the appearance of pimples may worsen the condition in the end. The key to clear complexion may come down to visiting a dermatologist for a tailored solution for your skin type and age.