Pimples: from squeezing to effective treatment (do's and don'ts)

Pimples are an annoying skin problem that almost everyone has to deal with at some point. Whether it's pimples on your chin, cheeks or forehead (or in some unlucky cases, all of these places): don't worry. Even though squeezing pimples is not a good idea, there are plenty of things you can do to combat those annoying spots. We'll explain what! Also read on if you're curious about the cause of pimples and what things definitely don't help (for example, toothpaste).

Cause of pimples on chin, cheeks or forehead

Pimples are caused by excessive sebum production. This causes sebum and dirt to build up in the pores, resulting in impurities. In particular, the T-zone on your face (forehead, nose and chin) can be susceptible to the development of pimples and blackheads.

Triggers as (partial) causes of pimples

In addition to genetics and incorrect facial care, there are various triggers that can provoke pimples. Nowadays, 'face mapping' is increasingly used for this purpose. This is a technique that links the location of pimples to possible causes. For example, pimples on the chin can have a different cause than on the cheeks or forehead. On Pinterest we found this handy acne face map, which basically comes down to the following:

Pimples on forehead:

• Pimples on the forehead are often related to digestive problems and stress.
• Diets high in refined carbohydrates and sugars can promote inflammation, contributing to forehead pimples.

Please note: hair products with aggressive ingredients can also aggravate acne. To prevent pimples on your forehead, it is best to choose mild hair care, such as a natural shampoo bar with Tea tree.

Pimples cheeks:

• Pimples on cheeks can be triggered by dirty pillowcases, phones, and other contaminated surfaces.
• Reactions to certain skin products may also play a role, as may a disturbed immune system.

Pimples chin:

• Acne on the chin (or jawline) is often associated with hormonal fluctuations. Women notice this especially during certain phases of the menstrual cycle or pregnancy.
• Hormonal problems or stress can make pimples on the chin worse.

To suffer from pimples around mouth or on the lip? Then be careful: this could indicate another skin problem, such as a certain form of eczema. In this case, it may be wise to reduce your product use. Read more here eczema face tips.

Treating Pimples? Don't Do These 4 Things

Treating pimples is a much searched term on the internet, and the strangest solutions for this skin problem appear.

1. Popping pimples: don't do it

We can be brief about it, squeezing pimples is simply not a good idea. No matter how tempting. Why? It damages the skin and in almost all cases you only make it worse. Also be careful with squeezed pimples in the sun, this can cause dark spots on your skin. Read more about it here remove pigmentation spots.

Can't resist popping pimples? Scroll to the end of this blog to see how to do it best.

2. Pimples and toothpaste are not a good combination

There is still a persistent beauty myth going around that toothpaste would help against pimples. Our advice: don't do this. This tip against pimples is probably due to the substance 'zinc'. This was mainly used in toothpastes in the past and has anti-inflammatory properties. But toothpaste also contains other ingredients that make the skin extra dry and irritated. Not a good idea for pimples and besides, there are plenty of other alternatives!

3. Alcohol dries out pimples (but that's not all, unfortunately)

Unfortunately, many cleansers still contain harsh ingredients, including alcohol. Alcohol may dry out pimples faster, but it also irritates the skin and strips it of its natural oils. In response, more sebum is produced, which in turn causes pimples to form. Instead, use pure Tea tree oil, this ingredient has a proven positive effect against pimples.

4. Scrubbing your face

Exfoliation removes dead skin cells, which helps against clogged pores. Only scrubs or too strong peels also damage your skin. Something you don't want when you suffer from acne because it can worsen the symptoms. Instead, choose a soft facial peeling based on natural fruit acids.

So what can you do about pimples?

Acne complaints are always a sign of a skin that is out of balance. You can restore these and strengthen your skin barrier with the right facial care. Do you want treat acne naturally? Then forget about toothpaste for pimples, vinegar or scrubs and take a look at the ingredients below that really help.

tea tree oil

Earlier we mentioned Tea tree oil as an effective remedy. The combination of oily skin and oil may sound strange, but did you know that this skin type can also be dehydrated? A natural facial oil with Tea tree is also perfectly suited for impure skin. When you use this in the last step of your skincare routine, the active ingredients from other products are absorbed even better.

Retinol

Retinol can also help against acne by unclogging pores and reducing inflammation. reduce. But that's not all: retinol (vitamin A) is also effective against fine lines, pigment spots and a dull, rough skin structure due to its skin-renewing effect. A multifunctional powerhouse for your skin! Unfortunately, this substance also has disadvantages, typical retinol side effects are skin irritation and dry skin. Good news: we use a natural form of retinol in RetinLift. With this you only benefit from the positive effects of vitamin A.

Lavender

Lavender is a perfect way to calm your troubled skin with spots. Unfortunately, many skincare products with lavender also contain ingredients that clog the pores. That is why we recommend lavender water against acne [lavender water acne]. Our lavender water comes in a handy spray and is rich in active components that reduce excessive sebum production. Ideal as a refreshment in between!

Glycolic acid (AHA) and salicylic acid (BHA)

The fruit acids salicylic acid and glycolic acid have an exfoliating effect. Salicylic acid removes excess sebum and dead skin cells from clogged pores, giving bacteria less chance to grow into a pimple. Glycolic acid stimulates the skin to produce new cells, among other things. An absolute must for acne-prone skin is therefore our AHA and BHA exfoliating serum.

How to Pop Pimples (When You Really Can't Stop Popping Them)

Can't resist popping a pimple, or have an occasion where you really don't want a distracting white face? We get it. And if you're going to do it, you might as well do it right :)

For squeezing pimples is a natural facial cleanser the first and most important step. Then, if necessary, apply a warm cloth to and around the pimple to open the pores. Then, use a sterile tool, such as a small needle, to gently puncture the top layer of the pimple (insert at an angle). Then, squeeze very gently around the pimple so that the pus can come out. Then, clean the area again and use a soothing agent or an ice cube to reduce swelling and redness.

Now you know exactly what you can do best to treat pimples. To make it easier for you, you can find all our tips here best products for acne. Hopefully you will soon be rid of those annoying pimples and blackheads!