Podcast Episode Summary: "Acne Extractions Gone Wrong" (Episode 169) – The Treatment Room
Release Date: May 30, 2025
Hosts and Guests:
- Tessa Zolli – Host of "The Treatment Room," a podcast dedicated to estheticians and skincare enthusiasts.
- Douglas Preston – A veteran esthetician with 44 years of experience, double-certified acne expert, and founder of Preston Acne Pros.
1. Introduction to Douglas Preston
The episode features Douglas Preston, a seasoned esthetician who has recently retired from active practice but remains deeply involved in the skincare industry. With a career spanning over four decades, Douglas has specialized in acne treatment and developed the renowned Preston extractor, a tool that has revolutionized acne extractions globally.
Notable Quote:
“I developed a special comedone extractor for this purpose… it's now a worldwide phenomenon.” (04:19)
2. Acne as a Specialist Field for Estheticians
Douglas advocates for estheticians to specialize in acne treatment, highlighting its growing demand beyond teenage clients to young adults and adults with adult-onset acne. He emphasizes that specializing in acne care can significantly broaden an esthetician’s client base.
Key Points:
- Broader Client Base: Addressing acne attracts a diverse clientele seeking both medical and natural remedies.
- Business Growth: Specialized services can lead to a thriving business as more individuals seek alternative treatments for acne.
Notable Quote:
“Acne care broadens your client base by quite a bit.” (04:31)
3. Understanding Acne: Congestion vs. Comedones vs. Cysts
Douglas provides a detailed explanation of different acne types, focusing on what he terms "congestive acne." He delineates how blocked follicles caused by sebum and dead skin cells can lead to various acne manifestations, from closed comedones (blackheads) to inflamed pimples.
Key Points:
- Congestive Acne: Blockages in follicles that may or may not result in visible inflammation.
- Comedones: Closed comedones don’t become infected, while open comedones (blackheads) remain non-inflamed.
- Extraction Focus: Emphasizes treating visible congestion to achieve clear skin without relying heavily on client adherence to home care routines.
Notable Quote:
“This is where the follicles are blocked… causing a blockage in the follicle.” (06:08)
4. The Art and Risks of Extractions
Douglas delves into the critical aspects of performing extractions, emphasizing that improper techniques can lead to infections and worsen skin conditions. He underscores the necessity of specialized training beyond standard esthetician education to perform extractions safely and effectively.
Key Points:
- Training Necessity: Standard esthetician programs often lack comprehensive extraction training, necessitating additional education.
- Risks of Improper Extractions: Potential for secondary infections and skin damage if not performed correctly.
- Customer Demand: Increasing demand for extractions as clients seek effective acne treatments without unpleasant experiences.
Notable Quote:
“Extractions lead to trouble if they're not done properly.” (10:00)
5. Best Practices for Effective Extractions
The discussion includes practical tips for estheticians to enhance their extraction techniques and improve client experiences. Douglas emphasizes the importance of communication, setting clear expectations, and using the right tools to minimize discomfort and maximize results.
Key Tips:
- Effective Communication: Thoroughly discuss the extraction process with clients, understanding their past experiences and comfort levels.
- Client Control: Involve clients in the process to make them feel in control, thereby increasing their tolerance and satisfaction.
- Proper Tool Utilization: Use specialized tools like the Preston extractor to achieve precise and trauma-free extractions.
Notable Quote:
“Insufficient communication between the service provider and the customer is the biggest problem.” (12:46)
6. The Preston Extractor: Innovation in Extraction Tools
Douglas introduces the Preston extractor, a patented tool designed to perform localized pressure on individual follicles without causing excessive trauma to the skin. He contrasts it with traditional extraction tools, highlighting its precision and effectiveness in treating sensitive and hard-to-reach areas.
Key Points:
- Unique Design: Engineered to apply localized pressure, allowing for precise extractions.
- Effectiveness: Capable of treating sensitive areas like below the chin and neck without damaging the skin.
- Global Availability: The tool is patented and distributed worldwide through partnerships, including with Face Reality.
Notable Quote:
“It's the most effective tool there is for extractions.” (33:07)
7. Addressing Client Behaviors: Picking and Its Consequences
Douglas discusses the detrimental effects of skin picking, differentiating between scarring and temporary blemishes. He advises estheticians to focus on treating the physical manifestations of picking rather than trying to control client behavior, emphasizing the importance of professional boundaries.
Key Points:
- Scarring vs. Blemishes: Clarifies that scarring involves tissue damage, while blemishes refer to temporary discoloration.
- Professional Role: Estheticians should address the physical effects of picking without attempting to manage client behaviors.
- Treatment Approach: Emphasizes gentle extraction techniques to prevent scarring and manage client expectations.
Notable Quote:
“Pitting is a result of aggressive treatment which leads to tissue removal.” (37:19)
8. Collaborating with Dermatologists and Managing Prescriptions
The conversation explores how estheticians can work alongside dermatologists, particularly when clients are on acne medications like Accutane or tretinoin. Douglas advises caution and collaboration to ensure treatments complement medical prescriptions without causing adverse effects.
Key Points:
- Medication Awareness: Understanding the implications of clients being on specific medications before performing extractions.
- Collaborative Care: Encouraging estheticians to coordinate with dermatologists for comprehensive acne management.
- Ethical Responsibility: Guiding clients towards more effective treatments when esthetic solutions are insufficient.
Notable Quote:
“If the client is on Accutane, it's best to pause any kind of work with them.” (49:07)
9. Educational Resources and Ongoing Training
Douglas highlights the importance of continuous education for estheticians. He offers various training programs and certifications through Preston Acne Pros, emphasizing hands-on and online learning to advance extraction skills and acne treatment knowledge.
Key Points:
- Training Programs: Offers both live and online training sessions covering advanced extraction techniques and acne care.
- Mentoring Mondays: A free monthly program providing business and aesthetic insights to industry professionals.
- Certification: Provides specialized certifications focusing on congestive acne, enhancing estheticians' expertise.
Notable Quote:
“If you use Tess's code… you'll save 10% on that tool.” (57:11)
10. Final Thoughts and Resources
In conclusion, the episode reinforces the significance of specialized training in acne extractions for estheticians. Douglas encourages listeners to invest in their education, utilize advanced tools like the Preston extractor, and maintain open communication with clients to ensure effective and safe acne treatments.
Resources Mentioned:
- Website: PrestonAcnePros.com
- Extractor Discount Code: TESST10
- Instagram: @Preston_AcnePros
- YouTube Channel: PrestonAcmePros
Notable Quote:
“Investing in education benefits both your skills and your business.” (57:11)
Conclusion
Episode 169 of "The Treatment Room" provides an in-depth exploration of acne extractions, emphasizing the need for specialized training, effective communication, and the use of advanced tools to prevent complications and enhance client satisfaction. Douglas Preston's extensive experience offers invaluable insights for estheticians aiming to excel in acne treatment and build a successful skincare practice.