Popping pimples on these parts of your face could cause brain infection

There’s something about watching videos of people popping pimples that is oddly satisfying, but you don’t want to mess with zits on certain parts of your face. And no, it’s not to avoid scars or pigmentation. The impact could be much worse.

Danger triangle

The nasolabial triangle also known as the danger triangle or triangle of death, is the section between the bridge of your nose and your lips, according toCleveland Clinic. It is considered dangerous because popping a zit in that region could lead to a brain infection, although it’s quite rare.

A network of large veins known as the cavernous sinus, located behind your eye sockets, drains blood from your brain. It’s why any infection in these parts of your face caused by popping a pimple or a poorly done nose piercing could transmit the pain and infection from your face straight to the brain. Dermatologist Alok Vij, MD explains:

There is the possibility for a facial infection to become an infection that impacts the rest of your body. Thankfully, it’s relatively unlikely, but 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

Stop the pop

Aside from the cosmetic reasons why popping a pimple on your face is not a good idea, it could have a severe impact on your general health. According to medical centre, in very rare, but still possible cases, an infection in your nasolabial region could also lead to:

• Brain abscess (pus that causes swelling of your brain).
• Damage to your facial nerves, including paralysis of your eye muscles.
• Pneumonia.
• Septic emboli (infected blood clots that travel through your bloodstream).
• Stroke.

Dr Vij says although the temptation to pop is often high, you must resist it and allow the pimple to run its course.

Honestly, you should always avoid popping pimples. Doing so can lead to inflammation, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and scarring — and, of course, infection.

Read more:

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⋙ Acne vs pimples, what’s the difference?

⋙ This is why pimple popping videos are so satisfying to watch