The Dangers of Popping a Pimple in the ‘Triangle of Death’

It can be tempting to take matters into your own hands and pop a spot as soon as you notice a fresh pimple coming through. But doing so could make things worse—especially if the pimple is growing in the “triangle of death.”

You may be shocked to hear that the simple act of squeezing a whitehead could lead to potentially life-threatening illness. For those who have never heard of the triangle of death before, don’t worry—you’re not alone, as the comments section of a recently viral TikTok, posted by @jilliangottlieb, revealed that many regularly squeeze spots in that area without being aware of the possible consequences.

Alexis Pfropper, founder of ästhetik skincare in Punta Gorda, Florida, told Newsweek: “The ‘triangle of death’ refers to the area on the face that includes the corners of the mouth and the bridge of the nose. It’s called the triangle of death because of the potential serious consequences if an infection occurs in this area due to its proximity to critical blood vessels and the brain.

“Popping spots in this area can introduce bacteria into the bloodstream, leading to potentially life-threatening conditions like meningitis or septicemia.”

If you do find yourself with a spot in the triangle of death, Pfropper wants you to avoid squeezing it at all costs.

“Instead of popping spots in this area or anywhere else, it’s best to practice proper skincare hygiene, which includes cleansing the skin regularly, using non-comedogenic products, and avoiding picking or squeezing pimples,” she says.

“For treating breakouts in the triangle of death or any other area, it’s recommended to use topical treatments containing ingredients like salicylic acid or retinoids, as well as seeking advice from a dermatologist for severe or persistent acne issues,” Pfropper says.

Skin health guru and founder of Em Skin, Erica Gatt, agrees that squeezing your spots should be a last resort.

“The best approach is to allow your body and skin to heal on its own and make sure you cleanse and keep the area moisturized,” Gatt says. “Your next best option is to visit your skincare professional to have them handle the breakout with care.

“If you are traveling and don’t have access to a professional, you could also apply pimple stickers to help reduce inflammation and redness.”

For those with skin giving them serious issues, Gatt has some recommendations.

“Check your diet, the three main foods can cause breakouts are: dairy, refined sugar, and gluten,” she says. “Cut out these three foods for a month and you most likely will see a difference in your skin.”