How to heal a popped pimple? What are the steps to heal a popped pimple quickly and safely? Discover the 5 easy steps to heal a popped pimple.

Why You Should Never Pop Your Pimples

Popping pimples can lead to cross-contamination of bacteria, possible infection, and potential for visible scarring. It may also push some of the contents of the clogged pore deeper into the skin, increasing inflammation and leading to more breakouts. “A popped pimple is basically an open wound that needs to heal,” says Jennifer Weiss, a dermatology PA at Marmur Medical. Picking at a pimple is like picking a scab – the more you prod at it, the longer it will take for the skin to heal.

How Long Does It Take for a Popped Pimple to Heal?

Weiss says that if you pop a pimple, it usually takes about two weeks for the wound to heal, although acne scars and marks can persist for longer. Compare that to an unpopped pimple, which will typically resolve itself within three to five days, and it’s clear why it’s best to leave your breakouts untouched. However, some deep pimples will still take weeks to heal, even if you don’t pop them.

What to Put on a Popped Pimple

When it comes to treating a popped pimple, less is more. “To promote healing, it’s best to only use gentle products on the skin, excluding anything exfoliating that contains acids,” says Weiss. That means putting down the spot treatments and anti-acne products. Instead, she recommends icing occasionally to calm swelling and applying an antibacterial ointment twice a day to speed up healing. Hydrocolloid pimple patches will also help keep the affected area clean and prevent you from re-popping or picking at the wound. Lastly, make sure to continue using sunscreen to minimize the risk of any hyperpigmentation or scarring.

How to Reduce Redness After Popping a Pimple

It’s common to still see a red or purple spot after popping a pimple. To ease redness, look to soothing skincare products with anti-inflammatory ingredients like green tea and aloe, and apply them as a spot treatment. Dr. Marmur recommends the MMBalance Serum and red light therapy from the MMSphere2GO for 20 minutes a day, for seven days. The SkinCeuticals Phyto Corrective Gel is another great option, as it’s a soothing gel serum with a blend of botanical extracts and hyaluronic acid that visibly reduces redness.

How to Prevent Scarring After Popping a Pimple

To prevent scarring after popping a pimple, Dr. Marmur warns against picking, re-popping or attempting to dry out the pimple with acids. Instead, focus on cleanliness and hydration. A hydrocolloid pimple patch will help hydrate the area and protect it from any grime, plus it will deter you from touching the pimple. Applying an antibacterial ointment twice a day will also help seal in moisture and encourage a smooth healing process.

How to Heal a Popped Pimple in 5 Easy Steps

If you’ve already popped a pimple, here are the steps to help it heal quickly and safely:

1. Cleanse Your Skin: When the skin around the blemish is broken, it can be more susceptible to unwanted bacteria. Cleanse your skin immediately, as well as every morning and night, to ensure you’re removing surface debris, dirt, and makeup before it has a chance to clog your pores.
2. Ice the Area: Applying a cold compress or ice pack to the area can help reduce swelling and inflammation, which can speed up the healing process.
3. Apply an Antibacterial Ointment: Use an over-the-counter antibacterial ointment, such as hydrocolloid patches or a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer, to help keep the area clean and promote healing.
4. Protect with a Patch: Use a hydrocolloid pimple patch to cover the affected area. This will help protect the skin, prevent further irritation, and deter you from touching or picking at the pimple.
5. Avoid Irritants: Steer clear of harsh skincare products, excessive exfoliation, and direct sunlight, all of which can further irritate the area and slow down the healing process.

How Can You Prevent Future Pimples From Popping?

The best way to prevent pimples from popping in the first place is to have a consistent skincare routine that includes gentle cleansing, targeted spot treatments, and regular use of sunscreen. Avoid touching or picking at your skin, and be patient – pimples will typically resolve themselves within a few days if left alone.

Remember, while it may be tempting to pop a pimple, it’s generally best to leave them be. Popping a pimple can lead to longer healing times, increased inflammation, and an increased risk of scarring. By following the steps outlined above, you can help your popped pimple heal quickly and safely, minimizing the risk of further skin damage.