Pimple popping, particularly on the face, is a common practice where individuals attempt to remove the contents of blemishes, such as acne or pimples. While it may provide a temporary sense of relief and can make the skin appear clearer in the short term, pimple popping is generally discouraged by dermatologists for several reasons:

1. **Risk of Infection**: Popping pimples can introduce bacteria into the skin, increasing the risk of infections. This is especially concerning if the tools used are not sterile.

2. **Scarring**: Popping can cause damage to the skin, leading to potential scarring or hyperpigmentation, especially with larger cystic acne or deep pimples.

3. **Inflammation**: The process can lead to increased inflammation and redness, making the condition worse rather than better.

4. **Spread of Acne**: Squeezing pimples can push the bacteria deeper into the skin, leading to more breakouts in surrounding areas.

To manage acne effectively and safely, dermatologists often recommend established treatments and skincare routines rather than manual extraction.

For further reading, you might refer to the article: "Acne Vulgaris" by Thiboutot et al., published in the *Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology* (2009), which provides an overview of acne's pathophysiology and treatment options.

What to do if you are unable to see a dermatologist?  

There are several effective techniques you can try at home. Try these:

1. **Maintain a Gentle Skincare Routine**: Use a mild cleanser to wash your face twice daily. Avoid harsh scrubbing, which can irritate the skin and exacerbate acne.

2. **Over-the-Counter Treatments**: Look for products containing active ingredients such as benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or sulfur. These can help reduce inflammation and clear clogged pores.

3. **Keep Your Skin Hydrated**: Using a non-comedogenic moisturizer helps maintain skin hydration without clogging pores.

4. **Avoid Touching Your Face**: Touching your face can transfer bacteria and oil from your hands, worsening acne. Be mindful of this habit.

5. **Use Ice or Cold Compresses**: For painful or inflamed pimples, applying ice or a cold compress can help reduce swelling and redness.

6. **Diet and Hydration**: Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Some studies suggest that high glycemic foods and dairy may exacerbate acne, so consider moderating their intake.

7. **Spot Treatments**: Natural remedies such as tea tree oil (diluted) or honey can be applied to individual pimples as they have antibacterial properties.

8. **Don’t Pick or Pop Pimples**: While it may be tempting, picking at pimples can lead to scarring and infections.

For more comprehensive advice on managing acne at home, you can refer to the American Academy of Dermatology’s guidelines on skin care and acne management. This resource may provide further insights into safe practices and effective treatments:

- American Academy of Dermatology. (n.d.). "Acne: Tips for managing and treating acne." Retrieved from [aad.org](https://www.aad.org).

Always remember that while these strategies can help manage acne, severe or persistent cases may still require professional medical attention. I t's always best to consult with a dermatologist if you're struggling with acne for personalized advice and treatment options.