Wash your hands with soap and water
Wash the area with a gentle cleanser
Apply a warm compress for 5–10 minutes
Use a clean, disposable tissue or gauze to gently press around the pimple’s base
Stop if it hurts, bleeds, or won’t come out easily
If it pops, gently wipe away fluid with clean tissue
Apply a thin layer of over-the-counter benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid to the spot
Leave it alone and avoid touching, squeezing, or picking
Cover with a hydrocolloid pimple patch if available
Wash hands again after treating the area
If it’s deep, very painful, or you can’t safely pop it, avoid attempting further squeezing
Seek medical care if you develop spreading redness, worsening pain, fever, or significant swelling