The entire procedure basically goes from zero to 60 in less than a minute.
SELF: Why do you think that your popping videos are so popular?
Dr. Lee: What it all comes down to is it makes people happy!
Theo & Juliet Photography
Some people feel like its a cleansing thing, like youre getting rid of something that shouldnt be there.
Theres no way this would have lasted if this were just something truly gross and disgusting and negative.
Are there any downsides to uploading-pimple-popping-videos-fame?
For instance, are people popping their own pimples more often and accidentally scarring themselves?
People are going to pop their pimples no matter what.
I make a run at educate people on how to do that the right way.
Or for instance, you dont have to remove cysts.
Now that your popping videos are so famous, what percentage of your patients come to you seeking extractions?
This has changed the demographics of my world.
Im very humbled and flattered by it.
What is the consent process for patients appearing in your YouTube and social media videos?
They sign a consent form that gives us permission to use the video/photos on our social media etc.
How do you keep your videos from feeling too exploitative?
How has internet fame impacted your day-to-day life?
Whats interesting to me is people recognize me by my voice.
But they see that Im a surgeon, a doctor, and that I talk like them.
I love the kid pimple poppers, tootheyre the cutest things ever.
So, lets talk skin care: What are some of the most common types of pimples?
In terms of pimples, pretty much we all get them in our life.
When you get to that third stage, thats the one we are most concerned about as dermatologists.
Not everyone goes through all stages, thank goodness.
Which pimples can someone pop at home and which should we just leave alone?
Im going to be like all dermatologists and say dont pop anything!
A blackhead is easier to popits not that youshouldpop it, but it is easier.
It causes less trauma, and less risk of infection and scarring.
Its an open pore, thats why its dark, its really open to the surface of the skin.
I have always wanted to write a book.
Growing up, I would go to bookstores every weekend and hang out there for hours.
And I also answer questions as a dermatologist: What is this medical condition that I have?
What is this skin condition?
How do I treat myacne?
You have such a large followinghow do you determine the best ways to use it for educational purposes?
The most important thingand why I wanted to do this in the beginningis to bring dermatology to the masses.
So people have a skin issue and they dont know what it is.
Theres a lack of access to correct information and thats what Ive been trying to correct.
Its hard, though!
I have a lot of balls in the air.
A lot of cysts in the air.
Put Your Best Face Forward: The Ultimate Guide to Skincare from Acne to Anti-Agingis on sale now.
This interview has been edited and condensed.
