Spa Magazine

Q. What are the benefits of getting extractions during a facial? Are they necessary?

The purpose of extractions is to draw out pore-clogging sebum using a precise technique and gentle pressure-without scarring or tearing the skin. 

The goal is to leave the skin looking and feeling clean, clear, and healthy. Facials that don't include extractions will not accomplish this goal. However, there are situations when one should stay away from them, depending on the expertise of the esthetician.

Pros: Pores are sensitive, but if the skin is treated properly before and after the extractions (cleansed, using steam when necessary; disinfected appropriately; and moisturized afterward), the manual cleaning of the pores can do wonders for the complexion. 

Cons: Oftentimes extractions are performed incorrectly, with the esthetician using too much force with both fingers (which creates too large of an opening on the pore), approaching the opening from the wrong angle, or using instruments incorrectly. Even with decent extractions, the skin needs to be disinfected properly, and steps to close the pores and heal the skin must be taken. These steps are often neglected, causing subsequent breakouts. To make matters worse, if extractions are not done correctly and all of the infection is not removed from the area, the skin will become red, inflamed, and irritated. This can lead to a bigger and more serious problem than there was to begin with.

The Verdict: I do believe in extractions, but only if they are done correctly. Otherwise, skip them.

-Sonya Dakar, founder of the Sonya Dakar Skin Clinic, Beverly Hills, California

More Questions Answered:

• How Important is My Cleanser?
• Should I Change My Skincare Regimen with the Seasons?
• Summer's Over. Do I Need to Wear Sunscreen?