Leave it — popping pushes pus, bacteria, and inflammation deeper, which is the top cause of post-acne hyperpigmentation and pitted scars. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends never squeezing a pimple, especially anything red, deep, or in the "danger triangle" between the bridge of the nose and the corners of the mouth. The standard alternative is a hydrocolloid patch — Rael Miracle, Hero Mighty Patch, Starface Hydro-Star — over a surfaced whitehead for 6 to 12 hours. The patch absorbs the pus and flattens the bump without breaking the skin. For deep, painful pimples, a dermatologist can extract or inject cortisone safely. Picking adds one to two weeks of healing time.