14 May Extractions and the Quiet Power of Clearing What’s Beneath the Surface
When it comes to skin care, a lot of attention is given to what we put on our faces—cleansers, serums, moisturizers, sunscreen. But sometimes, the most meaningful improvements happen when we focus on what needs to come out. Clogged pores, blackheads, whiteheads, and underlying congestion can make even the most expensive products and treatments less effective. That’s where extractions come in.
At RefinedMD, we view extractions not as a standalone service but as a vital component of a long-term skin health plan. Done professionally and as part of a comprehensive treatment, extractions can reset your skin, prevent breakouts, and help your products work more effectively. They may not be glamorous, but the impact is transformative—and long-lasting.
What Are Extractions?
Extractions are the manual or mechanical removal of impurities from the skin—primarily clogged pores, blackheads, whiteheads, and built-up sebum. These impurities often form when dead skin cells, excess oil, and environmental debris accumulate within a pore and become trapped. Left untreated, they can lead to inflammation, breakouts, and textural irregularities.
Professional extractions are typically performed as part of a facial, such as DiamondGlow, or following a chemical peel or light exfoliating treatment. At RefinedMD, we incorporate extractions into many of our custom protocols, especially for acne-prone or congested skin types.
Why Professional Extractions Matter
While it’s tempting to pop a pimple at home, DIY extractions are risky. Applying too much pressure, using dirty tools, or picking at the skin can lead to:
- Scarring and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
- Worsening of the breakout or infection
- Rupturing the pore wall, causing bacteria to spread
- Long-term textural damage and sensitivity
Professional extractions, on the other hand, are performed in a sterile environment with clean tools and a trained hand. Our providers know how to assess whether a blemish is ready to be extracted and how to do so safely—without damaging the surrounding tissue. More importantly, we integrate extractions into a larger treatment plan that supports healing and prevents future congestion.
Who Should Get Extractions?
Extractions can benefit a wide variety of patients—not just those dealing with active acne. You might be a good candidate if:
- You frequently get blackheads or clogged pores
- Your skin feels bumpy or congested beneath the surface
- You wear makeup or sunscreen daily and may not be fully removing it
- You’ve noticed small whiteheads that don’t resolve on their own
- Your skin looks dull or textured despite regular exfoliation
- You want to improve the efficacy of your current skin care routine
Even patients with clear or mature skin may benefit from occasional extractions, especially in areas prone to buildup like the nose, chin, or jawline.
The Extraction Process at RefinedMD
Extractions are always done thoughtfully and with skin integrity in mind. We never rush, overdo, or push beyond what your skin is ready for. Depending on your skin type and goals, extractions may be included in one of the following services:
- DiamondGlow: Combines exfoliation, extractions, and serum infusion in one treatment
- Acne facials: Customized to calm inflammation, clear pores, and prevent scarring
- Post-laser maintenance: Helps keep pores clear between resurfacing treatments
- Pre-event skin prep: Gives skin a smooth, clean canvas before a special occasion
After extractions, your provider may apply a calming mask, high-frequency treatment, or light therapy to soothe the skin and prevent bacteria from spreading. We’ll also provide guidance on post-care, including how to keep your skin clean and supported in the days that follow.
What Results Can You Expect?
Immediately after extractions, your skin may appear a little pink or sensitized, especially if you’ve had multiple congested areas cleared. This typically resolves within 24–48 hours. Once the redness fades, patients often notice:
- Smoother skin texture
- Smaller-looking pores
- Clearer, brighter complexion
- Fewer breakouts and less congestion over time
- Improved absorption of skin care products
With regular treatment, extractions can become more preventative than reactive. That means fewer blemishes, less inflammation, and a more resilient skin barrier over time.
Maintaining Results Between Visits
Extractions work best as part of a broader skin health strategy. Between appointments, we recommend:
- Double cleansing, especially if you wear SPF or makeup
- Using non-comedogenic products suited to your skin type
- Exfoliating 1–2 times per week with a gentle chemical exfoliant
- Staying hydrated and managing stress, both of which affect oil production
- Avoiding the temptation to pick at your skin, no matter how small the blemish
Your provider at RefinedMD can recommend a custom home care regimen to keep your skin clear and glowing between treatments.
Why RefinedMD for Extractions
At RefinedMD, we understand that extractions are about more than removing blackheads—they’re about restoring clarity and trust in your skin. We take the time to assess your skin’s current state, listen to your concerns, and recommend the safest, most effective treatments to meet your goals.
When performed in the right hands and within the right context, extractions can be the catalyst for better skin—not just temporarily, but long-term.
Contact RefinedMD today by calling the office or completing the online form to schedule your custom skin consultation or treatment with professional extractions.