Posts Tagged ‘extractions’

Extractions or How To Pop a Pimple

As an esthetician, the first thing I’m going to say on this topic is DON’T DO IT! Don’t pick, squeeze, pop or scratch at any pimples you have, it spreads bacteria possibly giving you more pimples and it can cause scarring. That being said, you’re probably going to do it anyways. It’s disturbingly satisfying. I know, I’ve done it for a living.  So for your best interest I’m going to give you tips on how to do it right.

1. Start with clean skin. The best time is  going to be after a shower. The warmth and steam will have opened up the pores making it easier to remove the buildup. Make sure to wash and rinse your face with an appropriate cleanser.

2. Wrap the tips of  your index fingers in tissue. This will cushion them and ensure cleanliness. It also absorbs any of the “debris” that will come out.

3. Assess the skin. Look for pimples that look ready to be extracted. These will be whiteheads (visibly white, pus filled and at the surface) or blackheads around the nose area, they look “open” in that the skin does not cover over the pore. Leave the red, under-the-skin ones alone. It’ s tempting but I can guarantee you will only make it worse. They are not ready and you will just make it bigger and angrier.

4.Gently squeeze. Using the sides of the fingers apply gentle, downwards pressure on either side. Rotate slightly to another angle for the next squeeze. If after 3 squeezes it doesn’t come out, leave it. Use all of your will power. Something else you’ve probably done anyway is poke something sharp in there to try and release the pressure. If you’re going to do that, sterilize it with rubbing alcohol  or buy lancets from the drug store. Just don’t go jamming dirty things into broken skin. Never a good idea.

5. Tone. After you’ve gotten any pimples that were ready, use a gentle toner over the face. This will help to reduce the likely hood of bacteria spreading.

6. Use a spot treatment. Something designed specifically for acne. Ideally salicylic acid in a low percentage. It’s oil soluble so it will help dissolve any sebum left in there and will kill bacteria, drying up what’s left.

7. Moisturize! This will help prevent the scabby, crusty look that can follow. Again, use one for oily or acneic skin so it won’t make the problem worse.

So there you have it, how to pop a zit or extract like a professional. There may be some redness or inflammation if you go at them too hard. Remember that the pimple is temporary but if you cause a scar it’s going to be around for a long time.

We have a great selection of acne products available at Spa Boutique and we are always here to help you with your skin questions and concerns!

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