Acne extractions on severe inflammatory acne. Multiple blackheads and whiteheads.

Acne extractions on severe inflammatory acne. Multiple blackheads and whiteheads.

Please scroll down to watch the video.👇👇

Acne extraction on severe inflammatory acne (with multiple blackheads and whiteheads) must be done with caution, ideally by a dermatologist or trained professional. Attempting it improperly can worsen inflammation, cause scarring, or spread bacteria. However, here’s a detailed overview of the professional method used for extractions, which should not be done at home for severe cases:

---

⚠️ WARNING:

For severe inflammatory acne (especially with cysts, nodules, or large pustules), do not attempt extraction yourself. Seek a dermatologist or licensed esthetician. Home extraction increases the risk of:

• Permanent scarring

• Infection

• Worsening of acne

---

✅ Professional Extraction Process:

1. Preparation

• Client skin assessment: Confirm type of acne (non-inflammatory vs inflammatory, active infections, etc.)

• Cleanse thoroughly with a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser.

• Apply warm steam or a warm compress for 10–15 minutes to open pores and soften sebum.

2. Disinfection

• Wear gloves.

• Use sterilized tools (like comedone extractors) and antiseptic wipes to prep the skin.

• Tools: comedone extractor loop, lancet (for whiteheads only), cotton swabs, sterile gauze.

---

3. Extraction Techniques

🔹 Blackheads (Open Comedones)

• Gently press the loop of the comedone extractor around the blackhead.

• Apply even pressure downward and then pull slightly to the side.

• Wipe extracted material with sterile gauze.

🔹 Whiteheads (Closed Comedones)

• Use a sterile lancet to gently nick the whitehead surface.

• Then, use cotton swabs or a comedone extractor to press gently and remove the contents.

🔹 Inflamed Papules, Pustules, or Cysts

• DO NOT EXTRACT if inflamed or painful.

• These should be treated with:

  • Topical/oral antibiotics

  • Cortisone injections (in-office)

  • Benzoyl peroxide, retinoids, or salicylic acid

---

4. Aftercare

• Apply antiseptic or anti-inflammatory toner (e.g., witch hazel, chamomile).

• Use a cool compress to reduce redness and swelling.

• Apply a healing serum with ingredients like niacinamide, centella asiatica, or hyaluronic acid.

• Advise no makeup or touching the face for at least 24 hours.

---

Alternatives to Extraction for Severe Cases

If the acne is widespread or inflamed, consider:

• Chemical peels (salicylic or glycolic acid)

• HydraFacial with extraction

• Oral medications (antibiotics, hormonal treatments)

• Isotretinoin (for cystic acne, prescribed only by a doctor)

  ​Performing acne extractions on severe inflammatory acne—characterized by multiple blackheads, whiteheads, and inflamed lesions—requires meticulous care and should ideally be conducted by a licensed dermatologist or trained esthetician. Improper extraction can exacerbate inflammation, lead to scarring, or cause infections. Below is a detailed, evidence-based protocol for professional acne extraction, along with references for further reading.​

  ---

  🔬 Professional Acne Extraction Protocol

  1. Assessment and Preparation

  • Evaluate the Acne Type: Confirm that the lesions are suitable for extraction. Non-inflamed comedones (blackheads and whiteheads) are appropriate, whereas inflamed papules, pustules, nodules, or cysts should not be extracted due to the risk of scarring and infection. ​

  • Cleanse the Skin: Use a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser to remove surface impurities.​

  • Apply Warmth: Use warm steam or a warm compress for 10–15 minutes to soften the skin and open pores, facilitating easier extraction.

  • Desincrustation: Apply a desincrustation solution or mask to further soften keratin plugs within the pores. This step enhances the efficacy of extractions and minimizes trauma to surrounding tissues.

  2. Sterilization and Hygiene

  • Hand Hygiene: Thoroughly wash hands and wear disposable gloves to maintain a sterile environment.​

  • Sterilize Tools: Ensure all extraction instruments, such as comedone extractors and lancets, are properly sterilized before use to prevent bacterial contamination. ​

  3. Extraction Techniques

  a. Blackheads (Open Comedones)

  • Technique: Place the loop of a comedone extractor over the blackhead and apply gentle, even pressure to expel the contents.​

  • Angle and Pressure: Hold the extractor parallel to the skin and apply light pressure in the direction of the pore to minimize skin trauma. ​

  b. Whiteheads (Closed Comedones)

  • Incision: If necessary, use a sterile lancet to make a small opening in the whitehead.​

  • Extraction: Gently press around the lesion with the comedone extractor or gloved fingers wrapped in sterile gauze to remove the contents.​

  c. Inflamed Lesions (Papules, Pustules, Nodules, Cysts)

  • Avoid Extraction: Do not attempt to extract inflamed lesions, as this can worsen inflammation and increase the risk of scarring. ​

  • Alternative Treatments: Consider medical therapies such as topical or oral antibiotics, corticosteroid injections, or other dermatologist-recommended treatments. ​

  4. Post-Extraction Care

  • Antiseptic Application: Apply an antiseptic solution containing salicylic acid or tea tree oil to the treated areas to prevent infection and soothe the skin.

  • Cool Compress: Use a cool compress to reduce redness and swelling.​

  • Hydration: Apply a non-comedogenic moisturizer to maintain skin hydration.​

  • Sun Protection: Advise the use of sunscreen to protect the skin, as it may be more sensitive post-extraction.​

  ---

  ⚠️ Important Considerations

  • Professional Training: Extractions should only be performed by trained professionals to minimize risks. ​

  • Avoid Home Extractions: Self-extraction can lead to complications such as scarring, infection, and worsening of acne. ​

  • Regular Treatments: For ongoing acne management, schedule regular professional treatments as recommended by a dermatologist.​

  ---

  📚 References

  • Comedo Extraction – Wikipedia

  • Common Acne Surgical Procedures – Verywell Health

  • Acne Extraction – California Skin Institute

  • A STEP-BY-STEP: Acne Treatment and Proper Extraction Protocol – Dermascope

  • Acne Extraction – Acne Skin Guide