How to Use a Blemish Extractor

Here you will find out how to use a double-sided blemish or comedone extractor for blackheads and whiteheads. This instrument is not to be used on cysts or other types of inflammed acne.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Comedone extractor
• Cotton balls
• Isopropyl alcohol
• Toner
• Antibacterial cream (benzoyl peroxide or triple antibiotic)

1. Sterilize the comedone extractor by soaking a cotton ball in the rubbing alcohol and wiping the tip.

2. Wash your face thoroughly with warm water and gentle soap. If you have particularly clogged pores, steaming your face for a few minutes (10-15 minutes is good), or holding a warm, wet (not hot) washcloth on your face to open your pores will make extractions easier.

3. Apply pressure over the whitehead using the looped end, and roll over the whitehead. Sometimes, this will be enough to extract the whitehead.

4. For more stubborn whiteheads, carefully pierce the top of the whitehead with a sterilized lancet, then apply pressure with the looped end of the extractor. Do not apply too much pressure. If you do, pain will be only one of your worries, as you'll probably scar by popping it.

5. To extract a blackhead, it is usually recommended to use the flat end of the extractor. But the looped end will work just as well. Roll over the blackhead, gently, to express the material that has formed the blackhead. Do not overwork or press too hard to prevent scarring. You can't pop a blackhead, but if you press down with too much force, bleeding could result. Again, pain will be the least of your worries at this point.

6. When finished with the extractions, apply a gentle toner to close up the pores. If your skin is prone to infection, it may also be wise to apply a thin layer of benzoyl peroxide, triple antibiotic cream, or diluted tea tree oil (not straight, as this would be too strong). This will help kill any bacteria that may have escaped during the extraction process and prevent scarring.

Tips & Warnings

• Always sterilize your comedone extractor and lancets.
• Sterilize the tip of the extractor between each extraction to prevent bacteria from spreading.
• Apply antibacterial agents and/or toner after finishing the extractions. It will help prevent infection and heal the open pores.
• Do not squeeze with your fingers. This will lead to scarring.
• Try not to apply too much pressure with the extractor to avoid scarring and/or bruising. Some blackheads and whiteheads can be quite stubborn, and may require a professional to extract them.
• Do not use a comedone extractor on inflammed or cystic acne. This cannot be stressed enough. Popping pimples or cysts with this will not only be painful, but messy, and will most definitely leave you with a nice, big scar. If you need a cyst lanced, go see your doctor. You'll be happy you did.