Dealing with a pimple can be frustrating enough, but the fear of ending up with a scar can make the situation even more stressful.

Popping a pimple improperly can lead to permanent acne scars, so it’s important to know the right technique to minimize the risk. In this article, we will guide you through a step-by-step process on how to pop a pimple without leaving a scar.

Step 1: Prepare Your Tools

Before you attempt to pop a pimple, it’s essential to have the right tools. Gather a clean sewing needle, a pair of tweezers, rubbing alcohol, cotton swabs, and clean tissues. Make sure all your tools and hands are thoroughly washed.

Step 2: Soften the Pimple

Before popping the pimple, it’s important to soften it. Apply a warm compress to the area for about 10 minutes. This will allow the skin to become more pliable and reduce the chances of scarring.

Step 3: Disinfect the Area

Use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to disinfect the area around the pimple. This will help prevent any bacteria from entering the open wound and causing an infection.

Step 4: Time to Pop

Using the sterilized needle, gently puncture the tip of the pimple. Make sure to do it at the edge, avoiding the center as it can lead to a deeper infection. Gently push down with the needle until the pus starts to come out.

Step 5: Use Tweezers to Finish

Once you’ve successfully punctured the pimple, use the tweezers to gently squeeze the sides of the pimple. Apply even pressure to extract all the pus without causing excessive damage to the surrounding skin.

Step 6: Clean the Area

After popping the pimple, clean the area with a cotton swab and rubbing alcohol. This will remove any remaining bacteria or debris.

Step 7: Apply an Antibiotic Ointment

To prevent any infection and promote healing, apply a thin layer of antibiotic ointment to the popped pimple. This will also help reduce the chances of scarring.

Step 8: Don’t Pick at the Scab

Once you’re done, the area might scab over. It’s crucial not to pick at the scab as it can lead to further scarring. Let the natural healing process take its course.

Step 9: Keep the Area Clean

Make sure to keep the area clean and avoid touching it excessively. Wash the area twice a day with a gentle cleanser and apply a non-comedogenic moisturizer to keep the skin hydrated without clogging the pores.

Step 10: Cover with Sunscreen

To protect the healing skin, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 whenever you’re going outside. Sun exposure can darken the scar and prolong the healing process.

By following these steps, you can minimize the risk of leaving a scar after popping a pimple.

However, it’s important to note that prevention is always better than popping, so focus on maintaining a consistent skincare routine to prevent future breakouts. If you’re prone to severe or persistent acne, it’s best to consult a dermatologist for professional advice and treatment options.