What is a pore vacuum?

“A blackhead vacuum is a small vacuum one positions over a blackhead. It uses a mild suction to extract oil, dead skin, and other debris out of the pore, according to New York City-based dermatologist Hadley King, MD,” (Healthline, 2022). However, some vacuums are not FDA-approved. It is mostly those used by technicians that are FDA approved.

Pores vacuums are similar to hydro-facials. A hydro facial is performed by estheticians to cleanse the skin and remove build-up skin cells. The process utilizes a combination of suction and pressure. These devices mimic at-home facials, and while it may be cathartic to suck things out your face, these devices are not recommended by dermatologists because of certain risks Without having it done by a professional, it’s possible to get micro tears from pore vacuums.

What are microtears?

Microtears are little, invisible abrasions to the surface of the skin. However, they can greatly damage the skin over time, cause profound irritation, and can degrade skin barrier function because of transepidermal water loss. Transepidermal water loss can create dryness and even peeling. Given that, microtears can make your skincare routine work against you, especially if you’re using exfoliants or if you have a condition. Any type of manipulation of the skin can cause inflammation and a condition to flare up. It can even cause enlarged blood vessels and bruising. Finally, this is not a solution, but a momentary thing. Naturally, the pores are going to fill back up, and a good cleansing, as well as ingredients like salicylic acid, are what will truly control sebum production.

Do pore vacuums get rid of blackheads?

Blackheads refer to pores that are clogged with oil and dead skin cells. When air oxidizes the deposit, it turns dark. This type of acne is also called open comedones, while whiteheads have a film of skin to keep it from oxidizing, making it closed comedones. Although a popular method of removal, you normally shouldn’t squeeze either of these or try to dig them out.

What are the effects of pore vacuums?

Over time, our skin loses collagen and elastin. Collagen is the strong stuff down in the dermis, and elastin is the stretchy stuff down in the dermis that keeps our skin flexible. As we age or get older, our collagen decreases. Especially on mature skin, pore vacuums can cause broken blood vessels, dilated blood vessels, and bruising. And while some might be using a pore vacuum “to decrease the size of pores,” this is not possible.

So, be careful butterflies, see a skin professional if needed, and wear your SPF!