Let's put it this way, most skin care pros don't even use metal extractors. Why? Because they are dangerous.
They dent in the skin and have no "give," meaning they can push dirt and debris further into the pore, causing infections and even more breakouts. The very last thing you should do to your skin is stick a lance in it.
If a pore is closed, it is closed for a reason! Poking holes in your skin will only cause it to scar or become infected.
"At-home extractions, especially when done with extractor tools, may harm the skin and worsen acne. And while you may not like the look or feel of a clogged pore, it is preferable to injury. In extreme cases, wounds caused by at-home extractions can lead to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) and scarring." –Kania
Some extractors come with instructions like: "for easier removal, first steam your face." We'll be clear with you about this – there is absolutely no way you can steam your skin at home that will prepare your pores for extraction. Your shower will not come close. Hovering over a pot of boiling water won't, either.
Only through a professional facial will your skin be prepped and steamed correctly for extractions – by the hands of a trained, licensed esthetician. No metal extractors required.
"When your esthetician performs extractions during a Bioelements facial, your skin has been adequately prepped in multiple ways to soften debris trapped within your pores.
Skin that has not been adequately prepped for extractions may be resistant, requiring more pressure and manipulation. If used too aggressively, the pressure of the extractor tool can inflame and even bruise the skin.
Additionally, your esthetician is well-practiced in gentle and efficient movements to maximize results while minimizing potential harm." –Kania
For even more reasons on why you should leave your extractions to the professionals, read this helpful guide.
Kate
Thank you! This has been so helpful. Years ago I was using an extraction tool but threw it out. Recently I purchased a new one and I was quickly reminded why I threw the first one out. I’ve been having a terrible time since I started using it. Far worse than the blackheads I was trying to remove :( I have a few spots that are infected and I even bruised my chin! I’ve really made a mess. I’ll be throwing this tool out as well. I too end up with a peeling nose after using it, which only traps more blackheads underneath all of that dry skin! It’s become a never-ending battle. I hope the marks I’ve made don’t scar :( I’m going to give my face a rest and pamper the hell out of it now! Again… thank you! So glad I’ve found this! ~Kate