Health
As soon as you notice a pimple on your face, you instinctively reach for it to squeeze it out.
It is very difficult to resist the urge to get rid of a pimple by looking at yourself in the mirror.
And although many of us know that acne should not be touched, it is especially dangerous to do so if it is located in the so-called “death triangle”.
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Where is the death triangle
The area on the face that connects the nose and the corners of the mouth is considered particularly vulnerable because it is closely connected to our brain.
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The best way to see a triangle is to form it with your fingers, connecting the tips of your thumbs and forefingers.
The tip of the triangle is your bridge of the nose, and its base begins at the corners of your mouth and extends to the outline of your upper lip.
Why is this area called the “death triangle”? The fact is that here is the cavernous sinus, a large vein that flows blood from the brain, creating a connection between the external and internal environment.
Read also: Places on your body where you get pimples can tell you about your health
In other words, if you squeeze out a pimple and develop an infection, the worst case scenario is that it will spread through your skin down your sinus and enter your brain, which can lead to serious problems.
Why you can't squeeze pimples in the “death triangle”
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This area is connected by blood vessels in the skull area, where infections can spread rapidly and become more serious.
If the skin inside the “triangle” is damaged from a cut or a squeezed pimple, bacteria enter the body.
One of the most common infections in this area is staphylococcal infection. These bacteria quickly enter the body and cause infection, and because of its proximity to critical areas of your brain, the infection can quickly lead to serious complications.
Just under the nose and mouth, there are four major cranial nerves that control functions around the face as well. Depending on which nerve is infected, several parts of the face, including the eyelids and mouth, may become paralyzed, motor functions may be impaired, and vision loss may occur.
Cavernous sinus thrombosis can also occur as a result of infection. This disorder can lead to blood clots that increase the risk of stroke and death.
The skin on the face, especially in the “death triangle”, is the first line of defense against invading bacteria. If you damage this barrier, it could have dangerous consequences.
Read also: 16 easy ways to get rid of acne scars
In addition, infections in this area can spread from various manipulations, such as picking the nose, pulling hairs out of the nose, and other actions that violate the skin barrier.
Another reason not to touch this area is because it's more likely to develop scars.
What to do if you notice a pimple in the “death triangle”
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Dermatologists recommend not to touch or squeeze out any rashes on the face. If you can't help it, there are several ways to reduce your risk.
Before carrying out any manipulations, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. Make sure that the area under your nails is also clean, as bacteria often accumulate there. It's even better if you cut your nails before touching the pimples.
Then cleanse your face and apply a warm compress.
You do not need to press the top of the pimple with your nails. Instead, it's best to lightly press down around the pimple with cotton buds or fingertips.
Finally, it's important to know when to stop. If the pimple does not squeeze out, leave this venture.
After the procedure, it is important to treat the skin with an antibacterial agent.
Here are some more tips on how to prevent infection and treat skin in the death triangle and other parts of the body.
Moisturize your skin regularly to prevent cracking and peeling.
If you see a pimple, don't squeeze it out. Even if it doesn't cause major problems, you may still have scars and pigmentation.
Don't pick around or pull out the hairs in your nose. Instead, you can cut them slightly.
Wash and change makeup products regularly.
Treat wounds with antiseptics.
Consult your doctor if you notice signs of infection, such as redness, pain, and discharge.