Understanding The Risks Of Popping Pimples In The Triangle Of Death

It can be tempting to take matters into your own hands and pop a spot as soon as you notice a fresh pimple coming through. But doing so could make things worse—especially if the pimple is growing in the "triangle of death." This area, which encompasses the corners of the mouth and the bridge of the nose, is notorious for the potential dangers that can arise from squeezing a pimple located there. The consequences could be far more serious than just a little irritation, leading to severe health risks that many might not be aware of.

You may be shocked to hear that the simple act of squeezing a whitehead could lead to potentially life-threatening illness. For those who have never heard of the triangle of death before, you’re not alone! A viral TikTok video by @jilliangottlieb brought this issue to the forefront, revealing that many people regularly squeeze spots in that area without being aware of the possible consequences.

According to Alexis Pfropper, founder of ästhetik skincare in Punta Gorda, Florida, “Popping spots in this area can introduce bacteria into the bloodstream, leading to potentially life-threatening conditions like meningitis or septicemia.” This emphasizes the importance of understanding the risks involved in such actions. If you find yourself with a pimple in this sensitive area, it’s crucial to resist the urge to squeeze and instead focus on proper skincare practices.

To ensure your skincare habits are safe and effective, it’s best to follow expert advice. Instead of popping pimples, focus on cleansing the skin regularly and using non-comedogenic products. Additionally, seek advice from a dermatologist for severe or persistent acne issues, especially in the triangle of death region.

Skin health guru Erica Gatt reinforces this approach by suggesting that the best way to handle a breakout is to let your skin heal naturally. She advises keeping the area moisturized and consulting a skincare professional for proper treatment. If you are traveling and don’t have access to a professional, applying pimple stickers can be an effective way to reduce inflammation and redness.

Lastly, Gatt emphasizes the importance of diet in maintaining healthy skin. She points out that three main foods—dairy, refined sugar, and gluten—are known to trigger breakouts. By cutting out these foods for a month, you may notice significant improvements in your skin's appearance.