What should I do if a pimple becomes infected from squeezing?

Generally, treatment methods for infected acne caused by squeezing include general management, local care, medication, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), and symptomatic supportive therapy. Specific analysis is as follows:

1. General Management

Patients should immediately stop squeezing acne to prevent the spread of infection. Ensure adequate sleep daily and avoid staying up late, which can reduce immunity. Maintain a light diet, consume more fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C, avoid spicy and irritating foods, and drink plenty of water to promote metabolism, thereby supporting the body's ability to fight infection.

2. Local Care

Proper local care helps prevent worsening of the infection. Clean the affected area with normal saline or mild iodophor and keep it dry. Avoid contact with dirty water and dust, and do not touch the area with hands. If there is slight exudation, gently dab it dry with sterile cotton swabs to reduce the environment conducive to bacterial growth.

3. Medication

Drug therapy is the core approach. Patients may use topical medications such as mupirocin ointment, fusidic acid cream, or clindamycin phosphate gel according to medical advice. In cases of severe infection accompanied by fever, oral antibiotics such as cefuroxime axetil tablets, amoxicillin-clavulanate potassium tablets, or levofloxacin hydrochloride capsules may be prescribed.

4. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

According to TCM, infection is often associated with excessive internal heat and toxicity. Commonly used treatments involve heat-clearing and detoxifying herbal medicines, such as Lianqiao Baidu Pills, Niuhuang Jiedu Tablets, and Pudilan Anti-inflammatory Oral Liquid. Additionally, applying gauze soaked in honeysuckle water externally can help clear heat, reduce swelling, and alleviate inflammation.

5. Physical Therapy

For redness, swelling, and pain caused by infection, cold compresses can be applied for 10–15 minutes at a time to relieve inflammatory responses. If a small abscess forms but has not ruptured, do not attempt self-treatment; instead, seek evaluation by a healthcare professional. For fever exceeding 38.5°C, acetaminophen sustained-release tablets can be used to reduce body temperature.

In addition, during treatment, patients must follow medical instructions strictly and should not adjust medication doses on their own. Personal hygiene should be maintained, and the affected area and surrounding skin kept clean. If signs of spreading infection, abscess formation, or persistent high fever occur, prompt medical attention is necessary for professional management.