Your mom told you not to and your grandma probably chimed in also, "keep your hands off your face and don't be popping a pimple". But the truth is despite what your mom and grandma said if you have a zit on your face it is hard not to try to get it off of there. No one needs an excuse like a wedding day, reunion or anything else to want to get rid of a pimple and have clear skin.

If you are going to try popping a pimple it is important to do it correctly. Improper popping could spread infection leading to more pimples and potentially cause scarring.

The first step is to make sure the blemish is ready to be popped. Look at the tip of the blemish for a white head. These are white blood cells that have gathered to help fight bacteria. If you do not see a white head you should not try popping the pimple. Trying to remove zits that are not ready or not the right type can result in scarring and infection.

Before popping a pimple, wash your hands and face thoroughly. Clean hands and face help prevent the spread of bacteria. Though this seems like common sense many people feel their hands are clean because they don't see dirt on them. In reality hands are teaming with bacteria so be sure to wash them carefully.

Sterilize a needle by running it through hot water or the flame of a lighter. Let it cool and then rub with an alcohol pad or cotton ball that has been soaked in alcohol. Gently prick the surface of the pimple with the needle. Or if you prefer you may hold a soft wash cloth that has been soaked in hot water against the lesion to soften it.

Wrap gauze pads or tissues around your fingers. With a light pressure, push the sides of the pimple to the center. The content of the zit should release easily with two or three gentle attempts. If it does not come out the zit was not ready to be popped. Wait to try again at another time.

When popping a pimple it is important not to force it. The contents should come out easily. If you try to force it you may cause scarring or an infection.