🔬 What Is Big Cystic Acne and Blackhead Extraction?
Cystic acne is a severe type of acne where painful cysts develop deep under the skin. These cysts are inflamed, often large, and filled with pus. Blackheads, on the other hand, are non-inflammatory clogged pores — open comedones — where the surface turns dark due to oxidation, not dirt.
🧼 Extraction Process:
Extractions are often performed by dermatologists or licensed estheticians, using sterile tools and techniques to avoid infection or scarring. Here’s what happens during a professional extraction session:
-
Cleansing the Skin:
The skin is thoroughly cleaned to remove oils, bacteria, and makeup. -
Softening the Area (Steam):
Steam or warm compresses are applied to open pores and soften hardened sebum. -
Using Sterile Tools:
-
For blackheads, a comedone extractor is often used to gently press around the clogged pore.
-
For cystic acne, dermatologists do not usually extract unless necessary, as deep manipulation can worsen inflammation or cause scarring.
-
Sometimes, cysts are injected with corticosteroids to reduce swelling rather than extracted.
-
-
Post-Extraction Care:
Antibacterial solutions or calming masks may be applied to reduce inflammation and prevent infection.
⚠️ Important Notes:
-
DIY extraction of cystic acne or deep blackheads is strongly discouraged. It can lead to permanent scarring, infection, and spread of bacteria.
-
Watching extraction videos online (such as those by dermatologists like Dr. Sandra Lee aka Dr. Pimple Popper) can be oddly satisfying for some, but it’s not a substitute for treatment.
