acne extraction - #16745
I am really concerned about my skin. I’ve been struggling with acne for years now and lately, it’s gotten way worse. I just tried this acne extraction procedure last week, thinking it would help. The person who did it said it would clear up my skin, but now my face feels super irritated and there’s redness everywhere. I’ve never really done anything like acne extraction before, and honestly, I don’t know if it was the right choice. My friend said it helped her, but now I'm feeling like maybe I messed up. The acne extraction seemed to be a good idea at the time, but what if it made things worse? I’ve read some stories about how it can lead to scarring or even more breakouts. Should I have waited? like, is it normal to feel this way after acne extraction? There was some pain during the extraction, but I thought it would be worth it. I don’t know, I'm just worried that I made the mistake and I can’t keep dealing with this. Just feeling super lost, any advice would be great!
100% Anonymously
No sign-up needed.

Doctors’ responses
It’s understandable to be concerned about your skin after an acne extraction, especially if you’re experiencing more irritation and redness now. It’s not uncommon to experience some temporary redness and irritation post-extraction, but if it’s significantly worsened, it might be due to a few factors. Poor technique during extraction, not using sterilized equipment, or you having sensitive skin can all exacerbate post-procedure irritation. Acne extraction, if done correctly by a professional, can help clear clogged pores but it should ideally be combined with other treatments that address the root cause of your acne, like topical retinoids or benzoyl peroxide. To manage your current situation, consider using a gentle cleanser and avoid harsh scrubs or exfoliants that might further irritate your skin. Applying a soothing moisturizer and an over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream can reduce inflammation. If your skin doesn’t start to improve, or if it’s getting worse, you should definitely visit a dermatologist. They can assess the damage and provide targeted treatments, maybe even prescribe oral or topical antibiotics if there’s a risk of infection. It’s important to ensure that any future extractions are done by a certified professional to minimize the risk of scarring or additional breakouts. They can also provide you with a comprehensive acne treatment plan tailored to your skin’s specific needs, possibly including topical treatments, hormonal therapy, or even dietary changes if needed. Prioritizing a dermatologist’s guidance will certainly help in managing your acne effectively.
100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential. No sign-up needed.
About our doctors
Only qualified doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.