A painful button that pulses under the skin, ready to give in to the slightest pressure… difficult to resist. However, this almost instinctive gesture could well make the situation worse. In a video posted on Instagram, Dr Marie Jourdan, dermatologist, warns of the risks associated with these often misunderstood deep pimples. Unlike classic pimples, these deep lesions are similar to boils… And handling them only worsens their development and delays their healing.
A risk of infection and scarring
The temptation to pop a pimple is strong, especially when it becomes tender or swollen. However, this gesture can transform a simple skin problem into a more serious complication. As Dr. Jourdan points out, “This type of pimple is often a deeper infection. Handling it can worsen inflammation and increase the risk of scarring“.
By squeezing the skin, the pressure exerted can push the infection into nearby tissues instead of passing it out. Result: increased inflammation, amplified pain and sometimes lasting marks. In some cases, the situation can even progress to a more extensive infection, which is difficult to treat.
The simple gesture recommended by Dr Jourdan
Rather than working directly on the button, there is a simple and effective alternative. Applying warm compresses several times a day helps the body deal with the infection naturally.
“These hot compresses promote vasodilation of the vessels and therefore the arrival of immune cells at the area of infection.“.
This process accelerates the maturation of the pimple without traumatizing the skin. Heat also reduces the sensation of pain by releasing local pressure. Conversely, the use of antibiotic creams without medical advice can pose a problem by promoting bacterial resistance.
When a pimple becomes dangerous and requires consultation
Certain signs should alert you and encourage you to consult quickly. Dr Jourdan emphasizes risky situations: “If the inflammation spreads, if it becomes an inflammatory plaque, if you develop a fever, or for example if this very deep boil-type pimple is in a place that is frankly at risk“.
Certain areas of the face, particularly around the nose and nasolabial fold, are particularly sensitive. An infection in this region can lead to more serious complications, which warrants increased vigilance.