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Dermatological knowledge

What to do after squeezing acne to avoid dark spots and scarring

Dr. Anh Thu, MD — Specialist Level II DermatologistJun 9, 20235 min read
What to do after squeezing acne to avoid dark spots and scarring

Proper skincare after popping pimples plays a crucial role in restoring smooth and healthy skin. If the skin is carefully cared for, it minimizes the risk of dark spots and scars. So, what should you do after popping pimples to prevent dark spots and scars? Take a few minutes to learn the proper post-pimple popping skincare routine.

What to Do After Popping Pimples to Prevent Dark Spots

The question of what to do after popping pimples to prevent dark spots is a concern for many people. This is because it greatly affects the future appearance of your skin. Below are some important notes to follow after popping pimples.

Ensure All Acne Cores Are Removed

You must ensure that all acne cores are completely removed from under the skin. If any whiteheads or pus remain, it provides an environment for bacteria to grow and spread. This not only prevents the acne from subsiding but may also cause redness, inflammation, and scarring on your face. Moreover, bacteria from the old pimple can spread to other areas, creating new pimples.

When popping pimples, it’s best to apply moderate pressure to remove the acne core. Avoid applying too little pressure, as it may not fully remove the core, but also avoid excessive force, which can damage the skin, causing redness and dark spots.

Acne cores must be completely removed to prevent new breakouts
Acne cores must be completely removed to prevent new breakouts

The sign that the acne core has been completely removed is the appearance of blood and plasma. At this point, you should immediately clean the fluid and avoid applying any skincare products to your face. Use a cotton pad or cotton swab to gently clean the fluid and let your skin rest in a cool, dry environment for 10-15 minutes.

Cleanse Your Face Thoroughly

After popping pimples, your skin will inevitably experience some level of damage. Depending on the type of acne, its severity, and the popping technique used, the damage may vary in intensity. Therefore, cleansing your skin after popping pimples is crucial to prevent new acne, dark spots, scars, and skin irritation.

Rinse your face with clean water, then soak a cotton pad or cotton swab in saline solution and dab it on the freshly popped pimples. For those with dry skin, rinse your face again with clean water, as saline can dry out the skin, causing it to darken over time. Afterward, gently wipe your face with a cotton pad.

Note: All actions must be very gentle to avoid further damage to the skin.

Apply Specialized Skincare Products

Skin that has undergone pimple popping is often sensitive and prone to irritation. Therefore, you should use specialized products prescribed by a reputable dermatologist to help the pimples heal and restore your skin’s radiance. Avoid using skincare products with unknown origins or ingredients that may irritate, peel, or thin the skin.

Avoid Touching Your Face

Avoid touching your face, as this is one of the most basic principles of acne treatment. Our hands come into contact with many objects, which may harbor bacteria. Touching your face transfers these bacteria to your skin, increasing the risk of inflammation and infection in open wounds.

Protect Your Skin from UV Rays

One of the factors causing dark spots and discoloration after popping pimples is UV rays. Therefore, limit sun exposure during hot weather. It’s best to stay indoors for a few days to allow your skin to recover. If you need to go outside, apply sunscreen suitable for sensitive skin and cover up thoroughly to avoid discoloration and redness.

Avoid sun exposure after popping pimples
Avoid sun exposure after popping pimples

Minimize Makeup After Popping Pimples

Skin that has undergone acne treatment becomes sensitive and needs rest. Applying makeup can clog pores and irritate open wounds. Wait until the pimples have healed or scabbed over before applying makeup.

Avoid Exfoliation During This Period

Exfoliation is typically done twice a week to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores. However, for sensitive skin, avoid exfoliating to prevent further damage.

Limit Physical Activity After Popping Pimples

After popping pimples, open wounds are present. Physical activity can cause excessive sweating, which may seep into the wounds, leading to inflammation and infection. Rest for 2-3 days before resuming normal activities.

What Masks to Use After Popping Pimples

Masks can soothe the skin, reduce dark spots, and minimize irritation. Use natural masks like aloe vera or tomato, as these ingredients are gentle. Below are some recommended masks:

Aloe Vera Mask: Aloe vera is well-known for its skin benefits and is widely used in beauty treatments. Its gel contains vitamin B, cinnamic acid, and folic acid, which promote tissue regeneration. Aloe vera also has antibacterial properties, preventing bacterial invasion. Before using, wash the aloe vera, peel it, blend the flesh, and apply it to your skin. Leave it on for 10-15 minutes for smoother, brighter skin.

Use masks to reduce dark spots and prevent new acne
Use masks to reduce dark spots and prevent new acne

Turmeric Mask with Honey and Unsweetened Milk: These ingredients are popular in beauty recipes. Their combination creates a mixture that brightens the skin, prevents dark spots after popping pimples, and reduces new acne formation. To make the mask: Crush a fresh turmeric root, extract its juice, and mix it with one tablespoon of honey and a little unsweetened milk to create a smooth paste. Gently apply the mask to your face, leave it on for 15 minutes, and rinse with warm water.

The above information provides tips for those wondering what to do after popping pimples to prevent dark spots. If you need skin advice, contact us to book a consultation with a dermatologist.

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Dr. Anh Thu, MD — Specialist Level II Dermatologist
Medically reviewed by

Dr. Anh Thu, MD — Specialist Level II Dermatologist

Reviewed:

Education & Professional Credentials

Dr. Anh Thu completed her entire formal and advanced clinical training at the University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City (UMP HCMC), the top-tier medical institution in Southern Vietnam:

  • Doctor of Medicine (MD) – University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City.

  • Specialist Level I in Dermatology – University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City.

  • Specialist Level II in Dermatology (Senior Consultant Level) – University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City.

Continuous Medical Education (CME) & Certifications:
  • Certification: Laser, Radiofrequency (RF), and High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) in Aesthetic Dermatology (UMP HCMC).

  • Certification: Specialized Dermal Filler Injections in Aesthetic Medicine (UMP HCMC).

  • Certification: Advanced Clinical Practice of Botulinum Toxin Injections (UMP HCMC).

  • Certification: Medical Thread Lifting Techniques (UMP HCMC).

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