Health warning about face pops

A woman is hospitalized after squeezing a pimple in the danger triangle on her face, a move doctors say carries real infection risk.

Popping a Pimple in the Danger Triangle Lands Woman in Hospital

A 32 year old woman, Alisha Monaco, went to hospital after popping a pimple in the danger triangle, the area between the corners of the mouth and the bridge of the nose. The choice to pop led to dizziness and excruciating pain, with swelling spreading across one side of her face. Doctors cautioned that the region is connected to the cavernous sinus, a brain region, which means infections can travel from the skin to the brain if the skin is violated.

Monaco shared the episode on TikTok, where her video drew millions of views. She received four prescriptions to manage symptoms and reduce the risk of infection before leaving hospital. She urges others to avoid popping in this area and to patch pimples instead, a message she hopes reaches people who may not know the danger.

This case shows how fast skincare myths can spread online, turning a common annoyance into a public health reminder. The speed and reach of social media put pressure on individuals to act quickly, even when medical advice says otherwise. By focusing on a specific facial zone, the story underscores a broader point: some everyday actions have outsized health consequences when anatomy creates a direct line to vital systems.

The risk is real but rare, which makes clear, credible guidance essential. Medical experts emphasize patching outbreaks and seeking professional care for any rising swelling, pain, or facial asymmetry. The incident also raises questions about how health information travels on platforms where sensational moments often win clicks over nuance.

Highlights

Health warnings travel fast online; responsible care travels faster.