To pop or not to pop? The struggle is so real. You just can't resist digging into those red and juicy pimples, can you? You may even say that almost nothing compares to the satisfaction of forcing the elusive pus out of hiding. Yet, no matter how tempting it can be, you should never ever get rid of these pestilent pustules on your own. Squeezing bumps may give you instant gratification, but this can cause more problems than you're ready to face. For instance, doing so can lead to additional infections, discoloration on the surrounding skin, delayed healing, and even permanent scarring. Fortunately, there are a couple of things you can do to keep your skin from being perpetually pimply. Read on to find out! 

How to solve your pimple-popping predicament

1. Practice skin hygiene.

Make your skin glow by washing your face with warm water and a gentle (preferably unscented) cleanser suited to your skin type. As simple as this advice may be, it is important to remember that warm water, unlike hot water, softens and soothes facial acne without stripping the skin of its natural oils. Just massage gently yet thoroughly to remove any trace of makeup and dirt. Failure to do so can further clog pores and cause more zits to develop. 

Neither is cold water recommended, as this may tighten pores already exposed and saturated with too many ingredients from facial products like makeup and sunblock. 

Cleansing the face properly is crucial in hastening your skin's healing process. This will also prime your skin to receive all the benefits of your skincare regimen. 

2. Reinforce your arsenal of skincare products.

Prone to breakouts before your period? Then perhaps it’s time to supercharge your skincare routine with something that actually works, like the Intensive Skin Recovery Cream from Obvs Skincare. This superhero skincare product can help treat acne with cold-pressed Safflower oil. There is some research that shows the effectiveness of this particular type of anti-inflammatory and non-comedogenic oil in addressing problematic skin. It even works for sensitive skin because it is very mild and  doesn’t leave a greasy residue. 

In addition, the miracle product also boasts non-nano Zinc Oxide that can shield your complexion from the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays, protecting it from further damage. It also has tocopherol that’s easily absorbed by the skin from immediate rejuvenation! 

Yet another great thing about this wonder cream is that it’s certified organic. This means that it hasn’t undergone any chemical processing. You get all the healing goodness of nature without any side effects from artificial gunk.

3. Use pimple cortisone shots in "emergency cases."

Got a hot date tomorrow? When a pimple makes a dreaded appearance, it can rain on your parade! In such cases, a pimple cortisone shot can be your best friend. This go-to emergency fix can significantly diminish that unsightly bump (or bumps) in 24 hours or less! A lifesaver, right? You won't need to fear that your date might be more enchanted by your pimple than your dazzling eyes. Just a gentle reminder, though: Ensure that you get a good dermatologist to provide you with this specific treatment. It is important to note that if done incorrectly, even a simple treatment such as a cortisone shot may leave a small but unsightly depression on the injected site.  

4. Treat yourself to tea tree oil.

How about going the natural route? Then, spot-treat with tea tree oil! This has long been considered an excellent alternative for healing many skin blemishes. Tea tree is an essential oil from the leaves of the Australian plant Melaleuca alternifolia. It is a popular acne treatment due to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. While it smells moderately medicinal, most people can tolerate it well. However, do note that some people may be allergic to this type of oil. Make sure you aren't one of them. 

5. Be a fan of pimple-popping shows.

Our last tip is to watch pimple-popping shows (for real!). That's right—by watching zit-zappers work their magic on perfectly ripe pimples, you can achieve a weird sense of satisfaction. And, mind you, this has a scientific explanation. Keeping your eyes focused on the successful extraction of deeply embedded blackheads and whiteheads can release the "feel-good" hormone called dopamine. The dopamine rush provides an intensely rewarding feeling as the creamy, white liquid from the pimples gushes out or the entire blackhead root is exposed. These highly fascinating videos can make anyone significantly squeamish to stop obsessing over their bumpy skin problems.

The bottom line

Dermatologists (and most probably your mother, too) will definitely advise against taking matters into your own hands. Don't let a moment of impulsive decision-making cause long-term consequences on your skin's health and appearance. Following the tips we just shared, along with eating healthy and getting enough quality sleep, can help free you forever from your pimple-popping dilemma. For more effective skincare hacks, visit the Obvs Skincare blog today! 

Written by Katie Pierce

Katie Pierce is a teacher-slash-writer who loves telling stories to an audience, whether it’s bored adults in front of a computer screen or a bunch of hyperactive 4-year-olds. Writing keeps her sane (most of the time) and allows her to enjoy some quiet time in the evening before she walks into a room of screaming kids (all of whom she loves dearly) the next morning.