Professional extraction can remove selected blackheads and milia when appropriate. We assess each bump first because milia, closed comedones (whiteheads), cysts and other growths can look similar but are treated differently.
Deep, inflamed cysts or nodules need a different approach. Picking or forceful squeezing can increase inflammation and the risk of marks or scarring.
What to Expect from Blackhead & Milia Extraction
Who may benefit?
Patients with persistent blackheads, selected whiteheads or superficial milia may benefit when the lesions are appropriate for extraction. Blackheads and whiteheads are open and closed comedones; milia are small keratin-filled cysts and are not acne. Deep, inflamed cysts and nodules should not be aggressively squeezed because that can increase inflammation and scarring.
What happens during an extraction?
The skin is cleansed and the lesion is evaluated before controlled pressure or a sterile extraction instrument is used. Technique matters because excessive pressure can injure the surrounding skin.
Can extractions treat acne?
Extractions remove selected existing comedones but do not prevent new acne from forming. Ongoing acne may need topical or oral treatment, depending on the type and severity of the breakouts.
What are the risks?
Temporary redness, tenderness, bruising and post-inflammatory pigment change can occur. Scarring is more likely when lesions are picked, squeezed or treated too aggressively.
Can extractions be combined with a facial?
Yes. Selected extractions may be incorporated into an acne facial, HydraFacial or another customized skin-care treatment when appropriate.
Planning Your Appointment
Professional extractions and acne care are available through our Medispa and dermatology services. A bump that could be a cyst, an inflamed acne lesion or another growth should be evaluated before removal is attempted.
Related care: Medical acne treatment for inflamed or cystic breakouts