If you've read any of my skincare reviews, you might know that I have oily skin that's prone to breakouts. I'm also over 40, which means that my skin is aging.
This is totally NOT FAIR. Just putting that out there.
Be that as it may, I have to deal with it in several ways. I'm incorporating more skincare into my routine, paying attention to how I cleanse my skin, and using tools like this Majestic Bombay Blemish Extractor.
When you first get it, it comes in a plastic sleeve. I recommend washing it and then sanitizing with alcohol before using it. One of the main benefits of using a metal tool like this is that you can santitize it. If you've been using your fingers to pop pimples, you have probably been spreading bacteria around your face and creating more problems. Most people's fingernails have bacteria breeding grounds under them.
Another reason to use this tool is that the ends are shaped differently for extracting particular types of blemishes, which means that you'll need less pressure, and you're getting a more targeted area. This leads to less bruising and scraping of the skin.
My aging skin appreciates not being scraped and bruised as much, too. Why do things take so much longer to heal now than they did in my 20's?
This narrow, angled tip is good for digging in under a blackhead. It also fits better into those crevices around the nose, where I tend to break out. Be careful with how much pressure you exert, though - this end can hurt if you're not careful.
This wide, flat side is better for removing whiteheads that have broken through the skin. It spreads the pressure out over the edges of the pimple, helping to get a better extraction.
This tool is a little longer than an OPI bottle of nail polish (polish not included!), and is sturdy and well-made. I have had other extractors that fell apart during cleaning, or even during extracting, but this one has survived almost daily use for about a month. Thank goodness it travels well, too, because I can't imagine going on a trip without it!
I spray it after each use with alcohol, and then store it with my makeup brushes, so that it gets washed when they do - roughly once a week.
As of this writing, the Majestic Bombay extractor is available on Amazon.com for $7.99, and ships free with Amazon Prime.
I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.
I've seen tools like this but haven't tried one. I do know that it seems to work well though.
ReplyDeleteI picked up one, then another .. then a different kind. I tell ya, this thing has saved my nails, too. They don't break nearly as often.
Deletehuh I've never heard of anything like this!
ReplyDeleteYou are lucky if you don't need it!
DeleteI keep meaning to pick one of those up...
ReplyDeleteThis is the best price I've seen. I bought a little travel one from Sephora for $10, and I like this one better.
DeleteI have always seen these around since high school but never used them. They kind of freak me out. lol and... holy moly... you are so not over 40.
ReplyDeleteOh, you are too kind! I'm 42! I do have an inner 12-yr old boy living in my brain though that keeps me young.
DeleteI´ve never used anything like this.
ReplyDeleteBecause you have perfect porcelain skin! lucky duck.
DeleteMy facialist yelled at me last week for picking one white head, she said to leave extractions to the pros :(
ReplyDeleteI've never been to an esthetician or facialist, so I don't know if she's right or overzealous. But, when I have a zit that is going to put a crimp in my day, I'd rather get it out with a tool like this than wait until I can have a facial.
DeleteThis is kind of awesome lol. I want to try something like this!
ReplyDeleteI rarely use anything else, now. It's so awesome for those little zits next to my nose.
DeleteEeeeekkkkkk I totally need one of these. I am such a picker, I may be overly obsessed with this. But I WANT IT!
ReplyDeleteI'm a picker, too.. This at least helps me from being too destructive!
DeleteI like to use mine after the shower
ReplyDeletethat's a great idea - the steam will definitely open your pores and make it easier to extract.
DeleteI think it was when I was in high school that I finally told my father to stop popping my pimples and to allow me to use an extractor. I think he used to love inflicting pain on me but he never did it right and would end up digging his nails into my skin. I had no luck with the extractor though and I gave up on it pretty quickly. Since then I've learnt how to properly remove blemishes using my fingers (wrapped in tissue, of course) and I find it the best method to remove them without damaging my skin or spreading the gunk.
ReplyDeleteI'm definitely a picker.. and my husband suffers a little for it, like you did from your dad! lol.
DeleteTerrifying! ;)
ReplyDeleteIt's coming to get you!!!! lol. I'm more terrified of having that big ol zit I can't get out and having it take over my face...
DeleteI have a few of these. I actually enjoy them
ReplyDeleteDo you have different styles? I have one that is one piece, instead of having the ends inserted into the holder. It's harder to clean, but it's less likely to come apart.
DeleteI have and love mine. Some things are just necessary
ReplyDeleteIt seems like it might be a strange topic, but really, pretty much all of us get pimples at one time or another. We need all the help we can get!
DeleteI've been toying with picking up an extractor!
ReplyDeleteAlong with my tweezers, they get used every day in my house!
DeleteI just used one of these tools this morning! So handy and helps avoid scars.
ReplyDeleteI agree! My old skin just doesn't heal as fast as it used to, and these are the best tools for extracting without scarring, I think.
DeleteI've seen these before but never really understood how to use them & if they help prevent scars. Maybe I'll pick one up and give it a shot next time I have a breakout.
ReplyDeleteNone of the ones I've bought come with instructions. I've found that looking at videos on YouTube (search for comedone extractors or blemish extractors) are the most helpful. Beware, though, some people post some very graphic extractions!
DeleteI have one of these and still gouge myself! :-(
ReplyDeleteIt is possible. Extracting after a steam works better. I find that sometimes I'll do a clay masque that will bring zits to the top and makes them easier to extract, too.
DeleteI've been contemplating grabbing one of these and a skin roller.
ReplyDeleteI have a skin roller, and really love it. I find it works best for me if I put on some oil first - then, there's no pain, only a nice sensation, like having a good back scratch. Be careful not to use it on your face unless it's designed for it, though. It's my understanding that the larger needles can actually do more harm than good.
DeleteI have always been so intrigued by them
ReplyDeleteNow you can satisfy your curiousity for under $10!
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