Extraction for Acne

Acne is amongst the most common skin conditions in the world, affecting up to 50 million Americans annually. Just like our skin, treating acne is not “one size fits all”, but luckily there are many treatment options available to help mitigate stubborn break outs, including one that is undoubtedly a favorite amongst qualifying acne patients…extractions.

Here to give us the scoop on extractions is one of our esteemed Aesthetic team members, Heather Mischke.

Skincare acne treatment

What are acne extractions and what are the benefits?

I define extractions as the mechanical clearing of clogged pores using sterile instruments. When performed in an aesthetic medical setting, extractions can be extremely effective in clearing up comedonal acne which includes both blackheads and whiteheads.

How do I know if I am a good candidate for extractions?

Upon examination, our board-certified dermatologists can help you determine whether you are a good candidate for an extraction treatment. Certain types of acne such as cysts, or papules both of which are classified as inflamed, should not be extracted.

Are extractions painful?

While the treatment is not painful, sometimes for a split second it can feel like a minor pinch or sting –however, patients love the results so much so that they want to incorporate extractions into their skin maintenance.

If extractions are an effective acne treatment, why am I told not to pop my pimples?

Great question! As tempting as it may be to squeeze your pimples or blemishes at home, by doing so you run the risk of making things worse and spreading more bacteria, which can result in new pimples, more noticeable acne, pain, inflammation, and even infection or permanent acne scarring. Remember, extraction is not effective on all types of acne.

What else can I do to help mitigate breakouts?

Acne treatment

One of my favorite treatments to help deep clean the skin is called DiamondGlow (formerly known as Dermal infusion). DiamondGlow uses a special tip to sweep away dead skin cells and gently suck dirt, makeup, and sweat out of the pores, leaving skin feeling immediately healthier looking and feeling.


About Heather Mischke, Aesthetic Team

Dermatology Associates of La Grange

Heather Mischke image

Heather Mischke was born and raised in the Chicagoland area, and has been working as an Esthetician since earning her license in 1995. Prior to joining the Dermatology Associates of La Grange team in 2002, Heather practiced for several years in Minnesota where her Microdermabrasion technique was featured in both the Minneapolis Star as well as the Tribune.

Heather offers aesthetic procedures under the direction of our board-certified dermatologists to address all of her patient’s skin care needs.

Her dedication and enthusiasm for helping people feel confident in their skin, coupled with her wealth of knowledge and experience are the foundation of her strong, long-term relationships with her patients.

Heather lives an active lifestyle and enjoys fitness. When she is not treating patients, she enjoys spending time with her husband and 3 children.

Click here to request an appointment with Heather or call us to schedule (708) 482-3213!