An acne squeezer (also called a blackhead remover) is a device used to remove pimples and blackheads. A blackhead remover is a device that usually resembles a small stick with a small ring or needle attached at both ends. This tool is designed to remove the contents of the pimple without damaging the skin. Before using a pimple picker (or blackhead remover), you need to do certain preparations to avoid skin blemishes or infections.
Step
Part 1 of 2: Clean Your Face
Step 1. Follow a proper facial cleansing routine
Washing your face twice a day is very important if you want to have clean and clear skin. If you plan to use a pimple squeezer, wash your face right before using it to make sure your skin is clean.
- Wash your face in the morning, before going to bed at night, and whenever your face sweats.
- Use a gentle cleansing foam and lukewarm water to wash your face. Avoid harsh cleansers that exfoliate the skin. Exfoliating cleansers and scrubbing your face can irritate your skin and cause redness and inflammation.
- Don't rub your face. Use your fingertips or a soft cotton washcloth to massage the cleanser into your skin. Then, wash with water.
- Dry your face with a towel after cleaning.
Step 2. Open the skin pores
Acne and blackheads that are already soft will be easily removed if the pores are open before using the squeeze tool. The pores can be opened by placing a warm hot towel on the face for 2-3 minutes or taking a hot shower. You can also steam your face to open the pores. However, be careful when using this method because the skin can burn if the water is too hot.
Step 3. Clean hands or wear gloves
To avoid contact of bacteria on your hands with your face, clean your hands with antibacterial soap and water. Or, you can use disposable gloves when popping pimples.
- Cleaning your hands with antibacterial soap will help prevent infection. This is especially important when you have acne-prone skin because bacteria will make the condition worse.
- Therefore, your success rate in getting rid of acne is related to the level of cleanliness and hygiene.
Step 4. Sterilize the pimple
Before using the appliance, you need to sterilize the pimple so that bacteria are not pushed deeper into the pores. Rub an alcohol swab on the pimple area to sterilize the face before using the tool.
- In addition, sterilize the squeeze tool (blackhead remover). If the instrument is not sterile, it will be easier for other bacteria to enter.
- Sterilize the tool using alcohol and cotton.
Part 2 of 2: Using the Squeeze Tool
Step 1. Choose the right tool for your acne type
Blackheads must be removed with a blackhead remover, while whiteheads must be pierced with a needle before being removed with a tool. The most commonly used acne squeezer is a blackhead remover with two different sized rings at each end. You can choose the size that best fits the size of the blackheads that are removed.
- While there are other tools that have a blackhead remover at one end and a needle to break up whiteheads at the other, using this tool requires more skill. Remember that you should not pierce whiteheads because there is a risk of infection. If you have a lot of whiteheads, see a dermatologist.
- If you are inexperienced in piercing whiteheads with a needle, the best option is to seek the help of a dermatologist (skin specialist) or a professional beauty therapist.
- Needles that are not used properly will result in scars or other blemishes on the face. On the other hand, the ring-shaped tip of the blackhead remover is much safer and can be used alone at home.
Step 2. Remove blackheads with blackhead remover
The trick, place the lifting ring right on the blackhead, and move it slowly from side to side while pressing gently. The blackheads will be completely removed from the follicle and you will see the oil coming out of the pore.
If the blackhead doesn't come out with gentle pressure, don't force it. It will cause infection and scarring. See a dermatologist if you have severe blackheads that are difficult to remove
Step 3. Remove whiteheads if you are experienced with needles
To remove whiteheads, start by piercing them with a needle in the lifter. Once the whitehead is open, place the lifting ring in the center of the blackhead and gently rock it from side to side, also pressing gently until the blackhead comes out of the follicle.
If you're in doubt about using needles, it's best to see a dermatologist or an experienced beauty therapist. This way, you avoid mistakes that can cause scars
Step 4. Treat if there is blood coming out
In some cases, the skin may bleed a little after the blackhead is removed. Gently press the skin with gauze to absorb the blood. If done correctly, the blood will stop coming out. However, you may have to press harder for a few seconds or until the bleeding stops.
Step 5. Finish by sterilizing the area
As an extra precaution against infection, use an alcohol swab to clean a face that is now free of pimples or blackheads. You should also clean and sterilize the appliance before storing it. Remember that extra hygienic measures will optimize the success of getting rid of acne.
