An introduction to skin care, Step Three

Extractions!! OK, some people Love this step, and others Hate it. This may be something that you want to skip altogether - which is a-ok with me, and it might be the best idea if you have super sensitive skin! Extractions can be done at anytime, but - there is a right and wrong way of doing them... And of course, it is completely up to you and your comfort level to determine how often you do them, and the amount of area you cover!

Extractions are a great way to help get rid of blackheads and pimples. Generally, extractions are easier on hydrated skin because it is more willing to release the excess oil. If you are finding the extraction process difficult, or that it hurts your skin - wait. Wait and concentrate on hydrating your skin more thoroughly. Make it a point to properly moisturize your face (twice a day) for a week, then try again.

Once your skin has reached proper hydration levels, you can apply a desincrustation solution which will liquefy sebum (oil) in your skin. Your own solution can be prepared by mixing one teaspoon of baking soda with one cup of distilled water. Apply the solution to your face with a piece a cotton covering all of the oily areas and any place that is prone to breakouts. If you want, you can also steam your face with a hot cloth or a bowl of hot water for 3-5 minutes. This will help the solution dissipate into the skin by opening the pores.

Directions: Wash your hands, then wrap your fore fingers in tissue and gently apply pressure on either side of blackheads and open clogged pores, drawing out oil and debris. This can also be done with cotton swabs (Q-tips). Wipe away debris with a piece of clean cotton dipped in toner, making sure not to infect surrounding skin. For white heads, and other closed breakouts, you can use a lancet to carefully open the skin and draw out impurities.

*CAUTION* Always make sure your lancets are sterilized or brand new. By using a lancet to make a small hole, your skin is less likely to scar compared to bursting the skin open to remove impurities. Again, wipe the area clean with cotton and toner. You will want to make sure the face is clean after extractions so that the open pores are not infected.

If you are uncomfortable doing this yourself, you can go to a spa for a facial, and they can do the extractions for you. This normally includes a desincrustation formula application and warm steam before hand. They may also use an extraction tool - but I must warn you... it will be a bit more rough on you than you might be to yourself and will leave you with a red face, but the job will get done.