Squeezing pimples, often called zits, is a common yet harmful habit. Despite the myth that squeezing blackheads speeds up acne clearing, this practice can cause significant and lasting skin damage.
Acne blemishes fall into two main categories: non-inflammatory and inflammatory. Non-inflammatory acne consists of whiteheads and blackheads (closed and open comedones, respectively). Whiteheads are clogged follicles beneath the skin’s surface. Blackheads are enlarged, dark-spotted plugs that protrude from the skin.
Inflammatory acne includes papules (small, pink, tender bumps), pustules (pimples with a red base and a yellow center), and nodules or cysts (large, painful lesions that often scar).
Squeezing blackheads is more likely to harm your skin than help it. While tempting, squeezing comedones can injure the sebaceous follicle and surrounding tissue. This forces bacteria and debris deeper into the skin, causing inflammation. Avoid using blackhead extractors, as a fully developed blackhead is unlikely to become inflamed if left alone.
Squeezing whiteheads is even more problematic. These tiny blemishes, often felt as skin roughness, are prone to inflammation and can develop into pustules or papules.
If whiteheads evolve into papules or pustules, consult a dermatologist. Squeezing inflammatory lesions can severely worsen acne. Whiteheads contain very little material, making squeezing ineffective and potentially damaging. The best approach to managing acne is a consistent treatment plan tailored to your specific skin type and acne type.