Things You Should Never Do to Your Skin

The skin is your largest, most accessible organ, making self-diagnosis and treatment a common occurrence. Here, top dermatologists from around the country share their advice on what not to do when temptation (or Google) calls.

Picking and Popping

The Derm: Heidi Waldorf, M.D., Director of Laser And Cosmetic Dermatology, Mt. Sinai Hospital, New York City

It was Jerry Seinfeld who gave dermatologists the "Pimple Popper M.D." moniker. The truth is, Mr. Seinfeld, we express, drain, and extract, but, we never, ever pop. The difference lies in the details of semantics and technique. Squeezing a blemish (often with bacteria-laden fingertips), creates a lot of inflammation in the skin, sometimes leaving behind scars and discoloration. If a zit is too big to bear, try to see your dermatologist for an injection of cortisone, or put on a bit of benzoyl peroxide to bring that baby down. Chronic breakouts should be managed with medical regimen tailored specifically to your type of skin and acne.

Pickers, Waldorf and I urge you, find your zen zone. Do not take that anxiety out on the skin (more on this later).

Buying Body Bleach

The Derm: Marta Rendon, M.D., Medical Director, Rendon Center For Dermatology and Aesthetic Medicine, Boca Raton, FL

Over-the-counter bleach is used best for clothes, not skin. Rendon advises that caution should be taken when buying products that contain fading creams because of the potential for skin irritation and contact dermatitis. Uneven skin tone is a very common cosmetic concern, and there are topical medications that can safely address the issue. But when dispensed by a doctor, counseling on optimal use is involved. Although they are on the shelf at your local drugstores, trust us on this one: These bleachers are not for everyone, and sometimes they can do more harm than good.

Putting Toothpaste on a Pimple

The Derm: Valerie Callender, M.D., Callender Dermatology and Cosmetic Center, Glenn Dale, MD

Ahh, yes, this is a favorite of YouTube beauty vloggers—but it's time to put this practice on pause. The skin operates ideally at a pH of 5.5.

When you put toothpaste on to dry out that third eye, it hikes up the pH creating dry skin, irritation, and even discoloration. Callender says that the side effects can "look worse than the pimple!" Keep the paste for those pearly whites.