During times of stress, the body responds by raising cortisol levels as a form of defense. Cortisol is a male androgen hormone, and when it rises, the body’s hormonal balance shifts and instigates hyperactive androgen behavior. As a result, the sebaceous glands increase their oil production. The influx of oil sitting on the surface of the skin is a culprit for certain types of acne. Hormones, in general, are also a reason of certain types of acne, most commonly the kind that appears around the jawline and sideburns.

On the surface, there is a presence of skin-lubricating oils and sweat, but there is also bacteria called Propionibacterium acnes, also known as P.acnes. Overly oily skin creates an ideal breeding ground for bacteria. P.acnes can easily penetrate through the pores to the root of the follicle. The combination of sweat, oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria cause inflammation and infection to develop. Evidently, skin becomes troubled with papules and pustules. Untreated acne has many consequences. It can progressively become worse, has potential to effect a person emotionally and psychologically, and can leave pigmentation and even scarring.

The client must understand and consent prior to having a deep cleansing facial involving extraction. Managing the client’s expectations of the skin renewal process is essential. Post-treatment, the skin continues to purify and detoxify. Homecare is critical to maintaining clear skin. For acne-prone skin, ingredients that are comedogenic or pore clogging should be avoided both in facial and recommended home use.

Extraction involves applying pressure to the skin and physically forcing impacted blackheads and congestion out from the pore. The client should expect that some redness and sensitivity could occur up to three days after a facial. In order to keep the extraction procedure gentle, it is normal for traces of stubborn, deeply lodged congestion to remain in the pores. In such cases, the practitioner must let the client know that the skin will continue to self-purge for several days post-treatment. This self-purge may instigate some mild flare-ups several days after the facial. Once everything clears up, skin will ultimately look better than it did before receiving the treatment.

Aestheticians have their own individual techniques and styles that develop over time. Some perform massage before extraction to soften and prepare the skin, while others prefer to massage the skin after extraction for relaxation and blood circulation-boosting benefits. Regardless, it is important to remember that after extraction, the pores are exposed; in order to avoid spreading breakout-causing bacteria, steps should be implemented to contract the pores before continuing with the session.

Facials are a proactive way to help skin stay healthy and combat acne. They encourage a foundation for reinforcing a lifestyle conducive to skin wellness and the preservation of youthful and acne-free skin.