Extraction videos are some of the most watched skincare content online. Behind every clean extraction is a careful process. Here is what professional skin therapists and dermatologists actually do, and why each step matters.
1. Cleansing
The skin is cleansed to remove makeup, oil, and dirt from the surface. This reduces the amount of bacteria that could get into open pores.
2. Softening the skin
Steam, warm towels, or a softening solution are applied for several minutes. Heat and moisture soften the hardened oil plugs, which makes them much easier to remove with less pressure.
3. Disinfection
The area is wiped with an antiseptic. Therapists wear gloves, and tools such as comedone extractors, lancets, and tweezers are sterile or single-use.
4. The extraction
For blackheads, a loop extractor or gloved fingers wrapped in gauze apply gentle, even pressure around the pore. For closed whiteheads and milia, a tiny opening is made first with a sterile lancet so the contents can come out without force. The goal is never to press hard. If something does not come out easily, a good therapist leaves it for another session.
5. Calming the skin
After extraction, the skin is cleaned again and a soothing, antibacterial product is applied. Some clinics use a cool mask or LED light to reduce redness.
6. Aftercare
Avoid makeup, heavy creams, and touching your face for the rest of the day. Some redness is normal and usually fades within a few hours. Mild exfoliation and a good routine at home help keep pores clear until the next visit.
This careful approach is why professional extractions rarely leave marks, while squeezing at home often does. Watch the full process in the videos below.
