Finally – Expert Reveals The Only Way You Should Pop A Spot

Skincare woes can affect you at the worst times - big interview or a fancy date? You're almost guaranteed to get a breakout beforehand thanks to the wickedly cruel hand that is fate.

While the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) says you should NEVER pop any sort of spots (or "pimples" as the Yanks like to say), it's fair to say that everyone can admit to having a go at their skin when times get tough. Sometimes all that gunk has just gotta go.

Expert Dr. Allison Arthur gave some handy advice though that should save - quite literally - your skin.

Allison notes that any inflamed cysts or painful bumps should never be touched - be patient, or go see an expert

Blackheads and whiteheads are also best left to profesh extraction treatments as you could end up doing more damage than good.

This is the only kind of spot you should try to "take care of" at home

ONLY attack if it's filled with pus and follow these steps from INSIDER:

Wash your hands thoroughly, including under your fingernails.
Swab the pustule with some rubbing alcohol.
Use your fingers to apply gentle pressure on either side of the pustule.
If it doesn't empty out with gentle pressure, stop trying to pop it .

After you've done your best, dab some over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream onto it to reduce inflammation and - the sneaky top tip - a dab of Vaseline so it doesn't scab.

Genius.