Triangle of death warning after pimple pop lands woman in hospital

A Michigan woman’s TikTok account about popping a pimple in the facial danger triangle prompts medical cautions about DIY skincare.

Triangle of death warning after pimple pop lands woman in hospital

A TikTok video by Alisha Monaco about squeezing a pimple in the facial danger triangle went viral, drawing attention to a little known area that connects to deep facial veins. The danger triangle lies between the corners of the mouth and the bridge of the nose, a zone doctors say can be risky if skin is broken. The clip, which amassed millions of views, described the moment the Spot popped and the sudden pain and dizziness that followed, along with swelling on the right side of the face.

Monaco was later treated at urgent care and prescribed several medications to manage symptoms and reduce the chance of infection spreading. She was discharged and has since recovered at home. Dermatologists emphasize that while infections in this area are not common, they can be serious, and medical care should be sought if unusual pain or swelling occurs.

This case highlights how social media can spread health warnings, but it also risks spreading misinformation. The triangle of death is a real anatomical concept, yet it is not a routine danger for everyday popping. Posts like this can spur people to treat concerns at home, which may delay proper care. Health professionals agree that any breach in skin in this zone warrants caution and, when in doubt, professional evaluation rather than DIY remedies. The wider lesson is clear: trusted medical guidance is essential when a common skin issue intersects with anatomy close to the brain’s drainage pathways.

Highlights

Some lessons arrive fast, but patient safety should always come first.