Obsessed with popping pimples? Here’s why…
Obsessed with popping pimples? Here’s why…
There are two types of people in this world — people who love to pop pimples and people who shudder at the thought. Trying to figure out which one you are? Think about these questions…
• When a pimple starts to surface on your chin (or your partner's chin), do you get itchy fingers?
• Does anxiety build in the pit of your stomach as you stare at the potential extraction?
• Or do you feel a rush of excitement about what’s to come?
• Does the idea of a ripe pimple making that “pop” noise underneath your fingers give you a little bit of a thrill?
• Have you ever spent a Friday night at home going down a rabbit hole of Dr Pimple Popper videos on YouTube?
If you answered yes to any of the above, then we guess you’re pro-pimple popping. But don’t be embarrassed or ashamed, it turns out you’re not alone — there are plenty of others out there who obsess over the challenge of popping a giant pimple.
Before we get into why some of us love it, let’s chat about all things popping pimples.
Is popping my own pimple really that bad for me?
Think that popping pimples on your face will lead to clearer skin? Sorry to break it to you, but you’re wrong! In some cases, popping pimples can lead to scarring, more acne, or worse — an infection. The only person who should pop pimples is a dermatologist, who will have the appropriate tools and experience to safely extract spots.
What happens when I pop a pimple?
When you pop a pimple, you essentially tear the skin’s surface to make way for the pimple’s pus to come out. This tear becomes a small wound that will either heal or, potentially, scar. One more warning? The pus that comes out of the pimple can contain acne-causing bacteria, which can spread into nearby pores and may cause the acne to spread.
Have we convinced you to stop yet?
Ok, ok…I know it’s bad for me, but I still want to do it! Why?
Your brain says no, but your fingers still say yes? There are a couple of reasons.
· Popping spots releases dopamine
A lot of people find popping pimples satisfying. After feeling and hearing that “pop”, some people get an immediate sensation of pleasure and relief. This may be because dopamine — the happy-hormone — is released when you feel a sense of accomplishment.
· Popping pimples can become addictive
You know the saying “once you pop you can’t stop”? As we know, popping pimples can release dopamine. But repeated exposure of popping our own pimples may lead us to want it more and drive us to go after the source of pleasure.
How do I stop popping pimples?
It’s time to step away from the mirror. If you’ve found yourself in a cycle of popping pimples that you can’t seem to break, try the following.
· See a dermatologist
The next time a breakout makes you want to pick and pop, go and see a dermatologist and let them handle the extraction(s).
· Implement a consistent skincare routine
Once the extractions have been made by a professional, implement a skincare routine to help maintain a clearer complexion.
Get ahead of the curve and help stop an emerging spot maturing by popping on (get it!) a Purifide Power Patch. The Purifide Power Patches are packed full of spot-fighting ingredients like Salicylic Acid, Centella Asiatica and Canadian Willowherb to help shrink, soothe and protect emerging blemishes – plus it avoids the temptation of picking your spot entirely by providing a physical shield for your skin!
Apart from the odd emerging blemish here and there – you should stick to a concise skincare routine to help manage breakouts and reduce the acne bacteria that sits on your skin. Cleanse daily, treat spots and moisturiser + protect your skin daily with these 3 easy products: 1. Purifide Daily Cleanser: Soothes sensitive, spot-prone skin, preparing it for acne treatments. 2. Acnecide Face Gel OR Acnecide Face Wash Gel: Tackle the 3 main causes of acne to help reduce breakouts: bacteria, clogged pores and excess oil. Either apply the Face Gel to cleansed, dry skin in the affected areas, or use the Wash-Off treatment after cleansing skin with a gentle skin cleanser and leave on the skin for 1 to 2 minutes, after which you rinse with water and pat your face dry! 3. Purifide Daily Moisturiser SPF30: Finish up by moisturising and protecting your skin by using our non-comedogenic moisturiser, perfect for spot-prone skin!
· Binge on Dr Pimple Popper
Instead of picking at your own skin, watch Dr Sandra Lee (aka Dr Pimple Popper) take on some of the world’s worst pores. Watching other people undergo extractions can give you an equal thrill to popping your own. Think of it like watching a scary movie or eating something really spicy — you’ll get pleasure from the discomfort.
Need it right now? Here are three of her trending videos — the best pimple pop ever.
