We know we shouldn’t.. but why do we still pop pimples?

Let’s be honest, we have all been there.

You wake up, head to the bathroom to freshen up, and there it is staring back at you in the mirror. A pimple. The first instinct? Pop it.

For many, the ‘pop’ feels like a quick fix, but dermatologists and scientists will tell you it is the fast track to scars, irritation and regret.

So why do we always have the urge to pop a pimple? 

“Popping a pimple often feels like a quick fix.

“It gives a sense of control or immediate action, especially when a blemish is visibly raised and red.

Unfortunately, this instinct often causes more harm than good, both to the skin and the healing process,” Senior Manager, Scientific Communications and Brand Engagement at DECIEM Rita Silva explained.

Senior Manager of Scientific Communications and Brand Engagement at DECIEM Rita Silva. - Photo: The Ordinary

Squeezing can actually backfire.

“It can push bacteria, oil and debris deeper into the skin, increasing inflammation and the risk of post-acne marks or scarring,” she added.

The result? Longer healing, texture issues, pigmentation and sometimes permanent scarring.

Why do we still do it then?

Silva noted that skin-picking often spikes when people are stressed or even just bored.

“Fidgeting, including skin picking, often increases unconsciously during periods of high stress or boredom and it can become a repetitive action,” she added.

Building awareness of those triggers can actually help from redirecting hands with fidget tools to focusing on healthier rituals.

Sulfur to the rescue

The good news is that we have acne-fighting ingredients like sulfur to save the day. 

But how does it actually work on the skin to calm breakouts?

Its multitasking benefits are especially relevant for sensitive or reactive skin.

“Sulfur works by targeting multiple causes of acne.

Testimony showing Sulfur 10% Powder-to-Cream Concentrate can reduce acne in just one-hour. - Photo: The Ordinary

“It penetrates the pores to help reduce surface oil, unclog pores and minimise acne severity.

“It works quickly to soothe the visible redness and irritation often associated with pimples that are angry-looking or red,” Silva explained.

Compared to benzoyl peroxide, which can strip both harmful and beneficial bacteria, sulfur is more skin-friendly.

“For individuals with sensitive or reactive skin, sulfur is often better tolerated and less likely to cause dryness or irritation,” Silva said.

From ‘attack’ to ‘support’

Brands like The Ordinary is known for no-frills formulas and science-first skincare.

The benefits of Salicylic acid and sulfur 10% Powder-to-Cream Concentrate. - Photo: The Ordinary

With its latest product the Sulfur 10% Powder-to-Cream Concentrate, they wanted to rethink the whole approach to spot treatments.

“The goal with Sulfur 10% Powder-to-Cream Concentrate was to offer a targeted treatment that quickly and effectively addresses pimples while soothing the skin.

“Our clinical studies show that Sulfur 10% Powder-to-Cream Concentrate significantly reduces pimple height, width and diameter in just 1 hour,” Silva shared.

Unlike some traditional spot products that dry out surrounding skin, the formula was built with colloidal sulfur for gentler delivery.

“By formulating with colloidal sulfur and focusing on delivery and usability, this product offers a quick, gentler yet effective solution that supports the skin while clearing blemishes,” she said.

The product is unique in texture too. It dispenses as a lightweight powder but melts into a cream upon contact.

“When light pressure is applied to the powder, the powder transforms into a cream-like emulsion.

“This texture shift ensures the product applies and blends seamlessly while remaining targeted to the breakout area,” Silva explained.

This format reduces chalkiness, tames sulfur’s signature smell and allows users to control the exact amount applied.

Sulfur 10% Powder-to-Cream Concentrate. - Photo: The Ordinary

Beyond products: better habits

Now, The Ordinary wants us to take a breath, step back and pat instead of pop.

Ultimately, skincare is also about routines.

Silva suggested building a simple but consistent system: gentle cleanser, breakout serum, moisturiser and a targeted spot treatment when needed.

“It’s important to remember that skin relies on hydration to perform its natural functions, including desquamation, the natural shedding of dead skin cells, so maintaining skin hydration is key,” she said.

Another tip is to keep hands away from your face.

“The goal should be to support the skin’s natural healing process rather than interfere with it,” she added.