The triangle of death, also called the danger triangle, is a specific area on your face where many medical professionals warn against popping pimples. bleeding. The triangle of death is the area of your face including your upper lip, nose, and between your eyebrows. Blogs are not reviewed by a WebMD physician or any member of the WebMD editorial staff for accuracy, balance, objectivity, or any other reason except for compliance with our Terms and Conditions. Now bring this triangle to your face so that the tip of the triangle is above the bridge of your nose and the bottom is resting below your upper lip. Directly beneath the nose and mouth are four major cranial nerves that control functions in and around the face. (, Dr. Shamban says you should always avoid popping zits, anywhere on your face. This sound stupid but I have pretty bad anxiety and this is torturing me right now do you think Ill be ok? It was really close to my mouth so there is s chance that a bit of it went on my lip or inside my mouth. An infection in the. While it's gotten better over the years, I'm still prone to the odd zit (or seven). Dr. Shamban recommends any patches from Zitsticka (Buy It, $29, amazon.com) or Starface (Buy It, $15, target.com). The Best Derma Rollers, According to Reviews, How to Get Rid of Annoying, but Common, Body Problems, 5 Must-Know Winter Skincare Tips, According to Dermatologists, Acne Face Mapping: How to Determine the Cause of Your Breakouts, The 9 Best Body Sunscreens Dermatologists Recommend for Year-Round Protection, Skin Tags Vs. MolesHow to Tell the Difference, Strawberry Legs: What They Are and How To Treat Them, How To Treat a Stye and Stop One From Ever Happening. Here's what you need to know about the "triangle of death," why you should avoid popping pimples in it, and how (if at all) you can pop pimples on your face safely, according to dermatologists. If you have a pimple, avoid touching your face, try over-the-counter (OTC) treatments, or consult a dermatologist if your acne isn't clearing up, according to the AAD. In some ways, an outbreak of acne pimples and an outbreak of MRSA pimples are very similar. In the age of Dr. Pimple Popper, the previously repulsive act of pimple-popping has become an almost euphoric experience. But if you're determined to pop a zit that's, for instance, on your chin, consider your timing. Learn more about what its made of and how to get rid of it. Maggie ONeill is a health writer and reporter based in New York who specializes in covering medical research and emerging wellness trends, with a focus on cancer and addiction. A condition called cavernous sinus thrombosis can develop in the sinus cavity as a result of the infection. All rights reserved. No but seriously you'll be fine. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. Yes, that means popping a pimple could actually kill you. Sounds crazy, but that location actually existsand it can be just as dangerous as it sounds. By rejecting non-essential cookies, Reddit may still use certain cookies to ensure the proper functionality of our platform. When it comes to acne, we all have certain spots where we are more likely to get a pimple. For that reason, "any infection in that area is a little bit higher risk," addedAlok Vij, MD, a dermatologist at the Cleveland Clinic in Ohio. It's called the triangle of death because hypothetically popping a pimple could cause an infection that would easily reach the bloodstream. The phrase "triangle of death" might sound slightly extreme when talking aboutpimple popping. But that may be easier said than done. The area underneath the triangle contains major sinuses that connect to the brain. To learn more, please visit our. Photo: Adobe Stock - Design: Alex Sandoval. Within an hour, her face was swollen and painful. Press question mark to learn the rest of the keyboard shortcuts. Before joining WebMD, Pathak worked as a primary care physician at the Department of Veterans Affairs and was an assistant professor of medicine at Emory University in Atlanta. If there is a break in the skin barrier, cellulitis an infection in the skin furunculosis [boils], or infections in the hair follicles, can occur, Dr. Dina Strachan, a board certified dermatologist in New York, told Healthline. Yes and no. ThinkConservatively 3 yr. ago. Popping a pimple, picking at a scab, plucking out nose hair .. all of these things can break the skin and lead to infections like furuncles (boils, which are infections of the hair follicles) and cellulitis (when the layers of the skin are infected.) We may earn a commission through links on our site. WebMD understands that reading individual, real-life experiences can be a helpful resource, but it is never a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified health care provider. (Popping a pimple in other places like your cheeks, chin, or forehead could still lead to an infection, but the effects of that would likely only be .css-16acfp5{-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;text-decoration-thickness:0.125rem;text-decoration-color:#d2232e;text-underline-offset:0.25rem;color:inherit;-webkit-transition:all 0.3s ease-in-out;transition:all 0.3s ease-in-out;}.css-16acfp5:hover{color:#000;text-decoration-color:border-link-body-hover;background-color:yellow;-webkit-transition:all 0.3s ease-in-out;transition:all 0.3s ease-in-out;}scarring or pigmentation changes, since the those areas lack the direct blood supply route to your brain.). Statistically, there is a chance that you will develop an infection and die. For potential or actual medical emergencies, immediately call 911 or your local emergency service. So what makes popping a pimple so much more dangerous here than, say, bursting one smack in the middle of your forehead? This will reduce inflammation and banish your zit in a couple days. It's bad to pop your pimples as it can lead to various skin infections. "Theoretically, it can lead to meningitis and other infections of the central nervous system since there is proximity to the brain," Hartman said. We've received your submission. Dr. Shamban's overall advice is to refrain from popping pimples, whether they're inside or outside the danger triangle. Thats because infections in this region, which includes the upper lip and nose, can quickly become severe, even deadly. Hearst Magazine Media, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Instead, "apply even, downward pressure around the pimples," said Dr. Zeichner. If the skin inside this triangle is broken from a cut or popped pimple, for example bacteria can enter your body. According to Jeremy Brauer, clinical professor of dermatology at NYU Langone Medical Centre, the veins that are running behind our eye socket lead back to the 'cavernous sinus' which is located in the brain. Then, apply a warm compress e.g. Never disregard or delay professional medical advice in person because of anything on HealthTap. Of the utmost importance is realizing when to stop. Popped pimple inside nose and started Popping pimples is never a good idea, and it's even worse for if they're located in the so-called 'triangle of death'. If you got some pus in your mouth, it's not dangerous in any way, just a bit gross. Addressing acne in this area of the face should be handled with care. Thanks for contacting us. You can find out more and change our default settings with Cookies Settings. When you visit the site, Dotdash Meredith and its partners may store or retrieve information on your browser, mostly in the form of cookies. It's been 4 months. The condition, known as Cavernous Sinus Thrombosis, kills 30 percent of those who contract it. Why Is It Dangerous To Pop Pimples in the 'Triangle of Death'? That means keeping the area clean, putting antibacterial cream on it, and not overpicking. Access your favorite topics in a personalized feed while you're on the go. Should I schedule a doctors apt? That's the message from Dr. Mehmet Oz, who said you better think twice before pulling out that nose hair or popping that pimple in the "triangle of death"an area on the face around the . Lastly, if the fear of deadly infection isnt enough to persuade you to stop the pop, keep in mind the lasting physical damage pimple popping can cause. Symptoms involve inflammation and may affect multiple. You've been told over and over and over again to avoid popping your pimples, no matter how tempting they might look. If the pimple persists, resist the urge to squeeze it. Tue, Feb 21, 2023. Overnight drying creams are also a great option, along with just plain old steam (from a steam facial machine or just in the shower) to help pores open without putting dangerous force on your face. A cellulitis or staph infection is treated with antibiotics, but it has to be caught early because of the risk of serious problems. William Truswell, MD, FACS, operates his own cosmetic and reconstructive facial surgery practice. If a pimple is popped in the triangle and "if there is a particularly virulent or highly resistant and aggressive bacterial infection introduced from the popping into the bloodstream, it can travel to the other parts of the body, including the brain," says Dr. Shamban. Dermatologists recommend using ingredients like benzoyl peroxide and retinoids instead of popping. Most, Many people have experienced an occasional skin rash or unexplained mark. WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. 2005-2023 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. By clicking Sign up, you agree to receive marketing emails from Insider A staph infection is one of the most common types of infection on this area of the body. i woke up specifically because it hurt so much that if i touched any of the areas near it on my face, like my chin, it would feel Oh jesus you popped a pimple on your nose or top lip? It's called the triangle of death because hypothetically popping a pimple could cause an infection that would easily reach the bloodstream. However, if you can resist popping, Dr. Shamban recommends to first place ice over a zit you notice. Sometimes, flattening a juicy pimple on your chin is all too rewarding. A 49-year-old member asked: Popped pimple in death triangle what do i do? But before you start worrying too much, Brauer explained to Mens Health that the chances of death are exceedingly low.. Vision loss can also occur. First, apply a warm washcloth to open up the pores. Our website services, content and products are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It's also a good idea to prevent pimples from forming in the first place. The area includes the bridge of the. Connect with a U.S. board-certified doctor by text or video anytime, anywhere. While popping pimples is tempting, it isn't worth the risk for. Please note, we cannot prescribe controlled substances, diet pills, antipsychotics, or other abusable medications. And while dermatologists and other skin pros typically advise against pimple popping altogether, the internet is home to plenty of pimple popping dos and don'ts for those who can't be stopped. They're a bit expensive but I get starface patches. And that hypothetical infection is why your danger triangle could be deadly. The veins in your danger triangle ultimately lead back to your cavernous sinus, located in your brain, he says. The overuse and misuse of antibiotics has, Researchers say a new hydrogel injection may help prevent infections following knee or hip replacement, reducing the need for antibiotics and, Multisystem inflammatory syndrome (MIS-C) affects some children after a COVID-19 infection. (Yeah, I think I'll take the concealer over the potential death sentence, thank you very much. The worst-case scenario is that its a severe infection, which can lead to deadly complications if left untreated. Learn how we can help. Therefore, picking at or scratching pimples on that area isn't wise since it can allow bacteria to enter and cause infection, according to theAmerican Academy of Dermatology (AAD). Since it was on my face, there was a huge risk of it spreading to my brain or my eyes, causing me to go blind., Wrights infection, which was likely caused by a dirty makeup brush, was in an area of the face known as the triangle of death.. ", Popping your pimples anywhere on your face is not recommended. Sign up for notifications from Insider! By Rebecca Jane Stokes Written on Jan 09, 2023. Because the blood vessels in this area drain to the back of your head, if you innocently pop a pimple in the danger triangle and it becomes infected, this can lead to loss of vision, meningitis, a brain abscess, or even death. What Are Plantar WartsAnd How Do You Treat Them? "Seek the help of a board certified dermatologist or licensed aesthetician to extract, inject or otherwise treat problematic pimples that prove to be persistent and resistant to topical therapies," Hartman said. You're definitely going to die. Symptoms, Treatment, and More, Debra Sullivan, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., CNE, COI, Everything You Should Know About Boils on the Inner Thigh, CDC Warns About Drug-Resistant Shigella: What to Know, Drug-Resistant Gonorrhea: Experts Concerned After Multiple Cases Identified, Knee, Hip Replacement: New Hydrogel Injection May Help Reduce Infections, How Mouse Poop Can Make You Sick (and Tips for Prevention). By rejecting non-essential cookies, Reddit may still use certain cookies to ensure the proper functionality of our platform. It's highly unlikely, but technically possible. Read More. as well as other partner offers and accept our. Dont pop if you can help it, and if you canthey, weve all been therethen watch for signs of infection. This condition can lead to blood clots, which increase the chances of stroke and death. Popping Pimples On This Part Of Your Face Can Kill You, Photo: A's Images & Getty Images via Canva, What It Might Mean If You Have Bumps On Your Face, 10 Really Weird Reasons You Have Bad Acne, How To Prevent (And Treat!) Hey so I had a white head on my upper lip for a few months, and it wasnt going away so I kind of squeezed it out. Learn about her 3 point plan to help keep it regulated. By using our website, you consent to our use of cookies. Here are some tips for preventing and treating skin wounds, both in the triangle of death and anywhere else on your body as well. Squeezing a pimple can create an open wound, which can become infected by dirt from our hands and airborne bacteria. NOW WATCH: How to pop a pimple yourself, according to Dr. Pimple Popper's tips. This type of infection can also be prevented with better hygiene practices. People Are Putting Adhesive Bandages on Acne To Get Rid of ZitsBut Does It Work? Popping a pimple in the "death triangle" is dangerous is because it's near blood vessels with a direct link to areas of the skull where infections can spread rapidly and become serious, says Dr. Shamban. The veins can then form clots to contain infections, which puts pressure on the brain, leading to partial or full paralysis and, in some cases death. Keeping your hands away from your face is important to get rid of a pimple, per the AAD. Yes and no. LOGIN Subscribe for $1. This story has been shared 174,941 times. What Causes Warts and How Can You Get Rid of Them? The scary name comes from the fact that the blood vessels in this part of the face have a direct link to blood vessels close to the brain. Next time if you get a pimple spring for some hyloraunic pimple patched to cover the blemish and help minimize the size and shade. The reason for heightened concern here is the blood supply in this particular facial region, according to Jeremy Brauer, M.D., clinical assistant professor in the department of dermatology at NYU Langone Medical Center. Thanks for your response! Reddit and its partners use cookies and similar technologies to provide you with a better experience. Another reason to keep your hands off that particular region is that it's more likely to scar, according to Dr. Vij. All rights reserved. Seek medical treatment if youre unsure. You can pop all the pimples you want on your forehead, or attack the acne on your chin with ruthless abandon, but leave the deadly triangle alone. Its best to get your acne treated., Learn about the differences between MRSA and acne. For these, please consult a doctor (virtually or in person). U.S. World; Unpublished. Breaking the skin's surface anywhere (on your face or body) poses a risk of bacteria entering the bloodstream, which is the main concern with the "danger triangle," she notes. Video chat with a U.S. board-certified doctor 24/7 in a minute. These bacteria can quickly enter your body and cause an infection, and because of the proximity to critical portions of your brain, the infection can lead to serious complications quickly. One such don't pertains to a particularly ominously-named region of your face: the "danger triangle.". New comments cannot be posted and votes cannot be cast, Press J to jump to the feed. This is the zone known as the triangle of death, or the danger triangle of the face. Is It Really Dangerous to Pop a Pimple In the Danger Triangle? But it turns out that I'm actually lucky to have made it out of these pimple-popping sessions alive. Chances are you've popped a pimple at some point but according to dermatologists you should resist the urge - not because it's unhygienic or will leave unsightly scarring, but because it could . Treat it like a pimple on any other area of your face. I would like to add that it's called the triangle of death to make people afraid. You can identify it by creating a triangle with your hands and touching the tip formed by your index fingers to the middle of your eyebrows and the bottom corners to the corners of your mouth, according to dermatologist Dr. Corey L. Hartman. Popping a pimple in this area can lead to major infections because of its location. Last month, Katie Wright began picking at what she thought was a pimple under the skin of her eyebrow. Ple. Bacteria in this area have a smaller distance to travel to do bigger damage to the body vs. a break in the skin in the leg, Free said. The skin around your face, and especially in the triangle of death, is a first line of defense against invading bacteria. But health experts have warned picking or popping pimples in this area could have potentially fatal consequences. Warnings on social media claim you should never, ever pop pimples within the area for risk of causing death (yes, really). These days, many bacterial infections are harder to treat because of antibiotic resistance, especially certain kinds of staph infections, so its best to try to prevent them from happening. This is because these types of infections are treatable with antibiotics and would have to continue for quite a while before making their way to your brain. Clean your face and keep and eye on the area. Is It Really Dangerous to Pop a Pimple In the Danger Triangle? That can create an open wound, and if bacteria get in theresay, you touch your face without washing dirty handsyou can develop an infection. This area has your sinuses right behind it, as well as important nerves and blood vessels that are responsible for the blood flowing to the brain. Do not consider WebMD Blogs as medical advice. Smart Grocery Shopping When You Have Diabetes, Surprising Things You Didn't Know About Dogs and Cats, Smoking Pot Every Day Linked to Heart Risks, Artificial Sweetener Linked to Heart Risks, FDA Authorizes First At-Home Test for COVID and Flu, New Book: Take Control of Your Heart Disease Risk, MINOCA: The Heart Attack You Didnt See Coming, Health News and Information, Delivered to Your Inbox. You shouldnt pop a pimple on your face. So if it gets infected it could lead to damage there from infection. While popping pimples is tempting, it isn't worth the risk for pimples in that area. For me, it's always been around my nose and my upper lip. Even though bacteria traveling to your brain is extremely unlikely, other possible issues are bad enough on their own. Get answers from Adolescent Medicine Specialists and top U.S. doctors, Our doctors evaluate, diagnose, prescribe, order lab tests, and recommend follow-up care. Wash and replace makeup products regularly. First of All, What Is the Danger Triangle? 3. Still, you definitely shouldn't take the threat lightly. If you pop a pimple in the "triangle of death," you risk an infection that could travel to your brain and bloodstream. Photo: Flickr user SpooSpa, Face_of_SpooSpa.jpg, CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikipedia.