What is a clinical acne extraction?
Acne starts when oil and dead skin cells block a pore. An open blockage oxidises and looks dark — a blackhead. A closed one stays under a thin layer of skin — a whitehead or closed comedone. When bacteria and inflammation join in, the spot becomes a red papule or a pus-filled pustule.
A clinical extraction clears these blockages in a controlled way. The skin is cleansed and softened, the opening of the pore is prepared if needed, and the contents are pressed out with sterile tools at the right angle and pressure. That is very different from squeezing in front of a mirror, which often pushes material deeper, tears the skin and leaves marks or scars.
Extractions are most helpful for:
- Many small closed comedones on the forehead, chin or jawline
- Blackheads on the nose and cheeks that cleansing alone does not shift
- Pustules that have come to a head and would otherwise be picked
- Skin that keeps breaking out because pores stay congested
Deep, painful cysts and nodules are a different situation: they should not be squeezed. The doctor may treat these with an anti-inflammatory injection or a broader acne plan instead.
What gets extracted — and what is left alone
Good extraction is as much about restraint as technique. Before starting, the doctor or therapist decides spot by spot what is ready, what needs a different approach, and what is better left to settle.
| Type of spot | Usual approach | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Blackheads | Gentle extraction | The plug is near the surface and comes out cleanly |
| Whiteheads / closed comedones | Prepared opening, then extraction | Prevents them turning into inflamed pimples |
| Pustules with a visible head | Careful drainage | Relieves pressure and shortens healing time |
| Red, tender papules | Usually left; calming care | Squeezing early tends to worsen inflammation |
| Cysts and nodules | Doctor review; anti-inflammatory injection may be considered | Deep inflammation; squeezing risks scarring |
At Bailor, extraction is usually delivered inside a programme rather than as a stand-alone squeeze. The Acne Spa Level 1(β©85,000) combines extraction with an anti-inflammatory injection where needed; Level 2(β©135,000) adds Astrodome blue toning and a modelling pack. For a fuller session with cleansing, extraction and a mask, see our acne facial options(Acne Facial β©180,000).
Prices in KRW, 10% VAT not included, updated September 2026. See the acne treatment price list.
What changes after extraction
Once redness settles, skin usually feels smoother and looks less congested within a few days. Because pores refill, most people need several sessions during an active phase. Marks left by old breakouts are a separate issue; the doctor can discuss laser options once acne is under control.
How an extraction visit works
- Doctor assessment We look at the type and depth of your acne, your medications, and how sensitive the skin is.
- Cleanse & soften Makeup is removed and the skin is prepared so pores release more easily.
- Sterile extraction Ready comedones and pustules are cleared one by one; inflamed spots may get an injection.
- Calm & protect A soothing pack or blue-light step depending on the programme, then moisturiser and sunscreen.
Extractions clear what is already there; they do not stop new acne forming. If breakouts keep returning, the doctor may suggest combining sessions with CAPRI laser for oil and inflammation, a home routine, or a referral for prescription treatment.
Downtime, side effects and aftercare
Extraction is a minor procedure, but it does break the skin surface in small spots. Realistic expectations:
- Common: redness and small marks at extraction points for a few hours to 1–2 days; tenderness; a few new spots surfacing in the following week as deeper congestion clears.
- Less common: small bruises or scabs, and temporary darker marks (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation), more likely in darker skin tones.
- Rare: infection or scarring — another reason we leave deep, tender lesions alone.
Tell the doctor first if
- You take or recently stopped isotretinoin, or use strong retinoids or acids
- You take antibiotics, blood thinners or steroids
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (this affects which injections and products we use)
- You have cold sores, eczema, keloid tendency or allergies
Aftercare
Keep hands off the treated areas, wash gently twice a day, use a light non-comedogenic moisturiser and SPF, and avoid saunas and heavy makeup for 24 hours.
Dr. Jimin Kang, Medical Director
Every acne extraction plan at Bailor starts with a face-to-face skin assessment by a doctor — not a sales counsellor. Dr. Kang's approach is "tailored, not templated": she chooses the product, dose and depth for your skin, and treats you herself or works alongside the other doctors on our in-house medical team.
Acne extraction FAQ
How much does acne extraction cost in Gangnam?
At Bailor Clinic in Sinsa, Acne Spa Level 1 (extraction plus anti-inflammatory injection) is β©85,000 and Level 2 is β©135,000, VAT excluded. The Acne Facial is β©180,000. See the acne treatment price list.
Does acne extraction hurt?
It is usually uncomfortable rather than painful, with brief pressure at each spot. Areas like the nose and chin can feel more sensitive. Numbing is rarely needed.
Will extraction cause scars?
Careful clinical extraction is designed to reduce that risk compared with picking at home. Deep cysts are not squeezed for this reason.
How often should I get extractions?
During an active breakout phase, every 2–4 weeks is typical. Once skin is clearer, monthly or occasional maintenance is often enough.
Can I have extractions while on isotretinoin?
Tell the doctor. Skin on isotretinoin is fragile, so the plan is usually adjusted or postponed.
Do you treat back or chest acne?
Extractions can be done on other areas. Mention it when booking so we allow enough time.
