If You Can't Resist Picking

Whether you're struggling with stubborn, persistent acne or just troubled by a single whitehead, it can be very difficult to keep yourself from squeezing and picking. We all know that by doing this, we risk increasing inflammation, introducing additional bacteria that can spread and worsen acne and we may even cause permanent scarring. That said, the urge to purge our pores can be overwhelming. If you simply can't stop yourself, at least make sure that the process is as sanitary as possible.

1. Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and warm water to clean and open your pores.
2. Wash your hands with antibacterial soap.
3. Use a stainless steel skin care tool that has been disinfected with a sterilizing solution, rubbing alcohol or antibacterial soap and gently press or roll out the blackhead or whitehead. Remember that if the pimple does not pop when tried gently from two or three different angles, then it is not ready. Do not continue to apply pressure because you may cause permanent scarring. And never dig at, or scrape your skin, with the tool. Just wait and try again later.
4. When you've finished, wash your hands and face again and apply a non-comedogenic moisturizer. Remember to sterilize your skin care tool as well.