The skin is softened before extractions using what?

The skin is softened before extractions primarily using a steamer. The purpose of the steamer is to create a warm, moist environment that helps to open up the pores. When the pores are opened, it becomes much easier to remove impurities like blackheads and whiteheads without causing significant trauma or irritation to the skin. The steam also increases circulation, hydrates the skin, and prepares it for further treatment, making the extraction process more effective and comfortable for the client.

While hot towels, exfoliating scrubs, and facial masks can serve various purposes in skincare and may contribute to skin preparation in their own ways, they do not provide the same level of pore softening and opening as steam does. Hot towels can help with warmth but do not maintain the consistent moist heat needed for optimal results in extractions. Exfoliating scrubs are used to help remove dead skin cells but do not specifically target the softening of the skin for extractions. Facial masks can hydrate and soothe the skin but are typically applied after extractions or for skin treatment purposes, rather than as a pre-extraction step.