What causes the skin to turn black after squeezing a pimple?

Generally, after squeezing a pimple, the area turning into a patch of dark skin may be caused by post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, increased pigment production due to irritation from squeezing, damaged skin barrier, infection leading to worsened inflammation, or acne scars with pigmentation. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical advice promptly to determine the underlying cause and receive targeted treatment. The specific causes are analyzed as follows:

1. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation: Squeezing a pimple irritates the local skin, triggering an inflammatory response that activates melanocytes, leading to excessive melanin production and deposition, which results in darkened skin. Daily sun protection should be maintained to prevent UV rays from worsening pigmentation. Skincare products containing vitamin C or niacinamide can be applied to help fade the discoloration.

2. Increased pigment generation due to squeezing-induced irritation: Excessive or improper pressure during pimple squeezing can damage skin tissue. The body responds by increasing melanin secretion during the repair process, resulting in darkened skin. Avoid further squeezing, keep the area clean, allow the skin to heal naturally, and minimize external stimuli that may affect pigmentation.

3. Damaged skin barrier: Squeezing pimples compromises the skin barrier, making the area more susceptible to external irritants and local inflammation. Persistent inflammation leads to pigmentation, often accompanied by dryness and sensitivity. After medical evaluation, skin barrier repair can be supported using hyaluronic acid gel, ceramide cream, or vitamin E lotion, along with proper moisturizing and sun protection.

4. Infection causing worsened inflammation: Squeezing a pimple may introduce bacteria, leading to local infection. Worsening inflammation promotes pigmentation and may be accompanied by redness, swelling, pain, or even discharge. After diagnosis by a physician, topical antibiotics such as mupirocin ointment, fusidic acid cream, or clindamycin gel can be used to control the infection. Pigmentation treatment should begin only after inflammation has resolved.

5. Acne scarring with pigmentation: Squeezing can damage the dermal layer of the skin, resulting in scar formation during healing, along with persistent pigmentation. The darkened skin may feel firm and appear raised or depressed. A dermatologist can develop a treatment plan involving topical silicone gel or pentosan polysulfate sodium cream to improve scarring. Hydroquinone cream may be added if necessary to lighten pigmentation, but must be used strictly according to medical instructions.

In daily life, maintain a light diet and reduce intake of high-sugar and high-fat foods; follow a regular sleep schedule and avoid staying up late to promote healthy skin metabolism. If the darkened skin does not fade over time or is associated with pain or itching, seek medical attention promptly.