Can white pimples on the face be squeezed?

In general, it is not recommended to squeeze white pimples on the face by oneself.

White pimples are keratin plugs formed after pores become blocked, with a layer of epidermis covering the surface. Squeezing manually may damage the skin barrier, allowing bacteria to penetrate into the dermis, causing worsened inflammation, redness, swelling, pus-filled bumps, or even cysts. This squeezing might injure the dermis, leading to collagen loss or excessive proliferation, resulting in depressed acne scars or hypertrophic scars. Particularly in the facial "danger triangle," squeezing may lead to intracranial infections, although rare, which can have severe consequences. Inflammatory responses after squeezing may also stimulate melanocytes, causing post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or dark spots, especially in individuals with darker skin tones.

Forcibly squeezing may cause the keratin plug to break, spreading its contents to surrounding tissues and triggering further inflammation. Improper squeezing may damage the dermis, making scarring or pigmentation more likely after healing, which can affect appearance. If acne is severe or persists, it is advisable to seek timely medical attention from a professional dermatologist. The doctor will develop a personalized treatment plan based on individual conditions, such as topical medications, red and blue light therapy, chemical peels, or laser treatments.