This Is Why Popping Pimples In This Area Could Be Deadly

We’ve all been there – a big event is around the corner and a stubborn pimple appears right in the centre of your face when you least expect it. For most of us, to get rid of it is to squeeze it hard. However, while popping might seem like a quick fix, dermatologists caution that it can often lead to acne scars or even infection. Recently, a US-based dermatologist took to social media to share that there is one area on the face where he would never pop a pimple and the reason may surprise you.

In a viral YouTube video, a US-based dermatologist, Dr Strom, focuses on an area known as the “triangle of death" or “danger triangle." This zone, stretching from the bridge of the nose down to the corners of the mouth, has veins that connect directly to the brain through a blood vessel called the cavernous sinus. Dr Strom warns that popping pimples in this area can cause an infection that may spread to the brain.

“So, when you traumatise the skin in this area or pop a pimple. You are potentially introducing a nidus of infection into the bloodstream. It can also travel directly to the brain," he said.

Popping a pimple may seem harmless but it can create an open wound that easily attracts bacteria from your hands or the air. If an infection develops in certain areas of the face. In rare cases, an infection of the face can lead to septic cavernous sinus thrombosis, a blood clot in your cavernous sinus which Dr Storm stressed in his video. The infection can lead to a variety of serious and potentially life-threatening health issues such as brain abscess, brain infection, facial nerve damage, meningitis, pneumonia, septic emboli and stroke.

While you are not going to “die" by popping the pimple on your face, the dermatologist stressed that the risk of “brain infection" is enough to make him avoid touching any pimples in the triangle of death.

Echoing Dr Strom’s warning, dermatologist Dr Alok Vij told Cleveland Clinic, “Whenever there’s a violation of the skin and interaction with bacteria, there’s always a possibility for infection, which can lead to greater health concerns."

For anyone tempted to pick a pimple in this “triangle of death," apply a warm compress for 10–15 minutes to help the pimple heal faster or use a pimple patch. You should also consult a dermatologist who may offer treatments to reduce inflammation safely, including cortisone and antibiotic injections.

The Diet One Should Follow For A Perfect Glowing Skin: Do’s And Don’ts

 

National Nutrition Week is celebrated annually in many countries to raise awareness about the importance of nutrition for health and well-being. The week typically focuses on promoting healthy eating habits, highlighting the role of balanced nutrition in preventing diseases, and encouraging people to make healthier food choices.

In India, National Nutrition Week is celebrated from September 1 to September 7. This year, the theme is ‘Nutritious Diets for Everyone’.

Maintaining healthy, glowing skin is closely linked to a balanced diet. As we are celebrating the National Nutrition Week, here are some key dos and don’ts related to nutrition for achieving and maintaining perfect skin.

Do’s

Drink 8 Cups of Water

Water helps hydrate your skin from the inside out, keeping it moisturised, supple and radiant. Water also plays a key role in flushing out toxins from the body. When toxins build up, they can contribute to skin issues such as acne, dullness and uneven skin tone.

Fruits and Vegetables

It’s essential to incorporate a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, as these provide vital vitamins, antioxidants and minerals that nourish the skin. Many fruits such as oranges, lemons and grapefruits are packed with vitamins, particularly vitamin C, which is essential for collagen production. Vegetables, especially those that are dark and leafy, are rich in antioxidants, fiber and essential vitamins that contribute to skin health. Spinach, kale and broccoli, for example, are excellent sources of vitamins A, C and E.

Consume Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fatty fish like salmon, flaxseeds and walnuts, are excellent for reducing skin inflammation and preventing conditions like acne and psoriasis.

Green Tea

Green tea is a perfect way to detox your body inside out. They help in combating premature aging, fine lines and wrinkles. It also helps to maintain a youthful and radiant complexion.

Probiotics

Incorporating probiotics and fermented foods like yogurt and kefir supports gut health, which is closely linked to skin health, promoting a clearer and more balanced complexion.

Don’ts

Avoid Excessive Sugar

Excessive consumption of sugar and refined carbohydrates can spike blood sugar levels, leading to increased insulin production and inflammation, which may trigger breakouts and accelerate the aging process.

Avoid Alcohol and Smoking

Limiting alcohol and smoking is crucial, as it dehydrates the skin and disrupts the skin’s natural repair processes, resulting in a dull, dry complexion and also makes the face look puffy.

Cutting Down Caffeine

Having a cup of coffee to start your day is fine but consuming too much caffeine can dehydrate the skin if not balanced with adequate water intake, leaving the skin looking tired and dull.

Decrease Salt Intake

Salt can also lead to water retention, making your skin appear puffy and bloated. While supplements may provide a quick fix, it’s important not to rely on them alone.

Limit diary consumption

Some individuals may also experience breakouts from dairy products, particularly if these contain hormones that trigger oil production.