Why does it hurt when I press my pimples?

Many people have experienced this: a pimple pops up on your face, and the slightest touch can cause intense pain, even when you're not touching it. This pain isn't just an illusion; it's a clear sign of inflammation within the pimple. If you're experiencing this, read this article to gain a more comprehensive understanding of acne.

Why is pressing on pimples so painful?

The pain of acne primarily stems from a deep-seated inflammatory response. When the sebaceous ducts of the hair follicles become blocked, Propionibacterium acnes multiplies, triggering an immune system response. Inflammatory cells accumulate locally, releasing inflammatory mediators such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes, which stimulate nerve endings and generate pain signals. Inflammation also causes local tissue edema and increased pressure, further compressing nerves and causing a painful sensation. Deep cystic acne is particularly prone to inflammation, as it involves the dermis and subcutaneous tissue, where nerve endings are more abundant, leading to more pronounced pain.

Which types of acne are most painful?

Generally, the more inflammatory a breakout is, the more painful it is. Microcomedones and blackheads are generally painless because they haven't yet triggered a significant inflammatory response. Inflammatory breakouts, such as papules and pustules, are mild to moderately tender. The most painful are nodules and cysts; these deep, inflammatory acne are not only painful but may also be accompanied by spontaneous pain. Premenstrual breakouts tend to be more painful due to increased inflammation caused by hormonal changes. Acne around the mouth and jawline also tends to be more painful because these areas have thinner skin and dense nerves.

How to deal with painful acne?

First and foremost, avoid squeezing. While this may be your first instinct, squeezing can spread inflammation to surrounding tissues, increasing swelling and pain, and potentially leaving lasting scars. The correct treatment is a topical anti-inflammatory medication, such as products containing azelaic acid, salicylic acid, or tea tree extract, which can help reduce inflammation. For particularly painful pimples, a brief cold compress—an ice pack wrapped in a towel and applied for 5-10 minutes several times a day—can help reduce swelling and pain. If the pimple has already developed a whitehead, disinfect it with rubbing alcohol and then gently puncture the surface with a sterile needle, allowing the contents to drain naturally. Avoid squeezing.

Under what circumstances is medical treatment required?

If a breakout is so painful that it interferes with daily life or sleep, or if the breakout is larger than 5 mm in diameter and deep, it's recommended to seek medical attention. A dermatologist may prescribe topical or oral antibiotics, such as clindamycin or doxycycline, to control infection and inflammation. For severe cystic acne, a doctor may perform a corticosteroid injection to quickly reduce inflammation and pain. Patients with long-term, recurring, painful breakouts may want to consider treatment with isotretinoin, a powerful prescription medication for severe acne.

How to prevent painful acne?

Prevention is always better than a cure. Maintaining facial cleanliness is important, but avoid overdoing it; gently cleansing twice a day is sufficient. Choose skincare products that are non-comedogenic, especially avoiding overly greasy creams and sunscreens. Pay attention to dietary adjustments and reduce your intake of high-sugar and high-fat foods, which may exacerbate inflammation. Getting enough sleep and managing stress levels are also crucial, as fatigue and stress can increase cortisol levels in the body, exacerbating inflammation. Regularly changing pillowcases and keeping phone screens clean can also reduce exposure to bacteria.

What should you pay attention to during acne pain?

While the breakout is painful, try to avoid using irritating skincare products, such as acids or retinols, as these ingredients may exacerbate inflammation. Also, use acne patches to prevent the intrusion of foreign microorganisms and reduce the risk of infection. If you wear makeup, be sure to remove it thoroughly at night. Sun protection is important, as UV rays can exacerbate inflammation and cause hyperpigmentation, but choose a lightweight sunscreen. Patience is key; the natural healing process of acne usually takes one to two weeks. During this time, avoid touching or checking the pimple frequently, as this will only worsen the irritation.

Proper treatment can speed up healing and reduce the risk of complications. For more information on Innomed®Acne Plaster, refer to the Previous Articles. If you have customized needs, you are welcome to contact us; You Wholeheartedly. At longterm medical, we transform this data by Innovating and Developing Products that Make Life easier for those who need loving care.

Editor: kiki Jia