Texas Cosmetology Operator Written ExamSkin Care ServicesHard
A client presents for a facial and has visible milia around their eyes and cheekbones. The cosmetologist determines that extraction is necessary. What is the correct and safest method for extracting milia?
- AUsing a scrub brush to exfoliate them away.
- BApplying a strong chemical peel directly to the milia.
- CUsing a lancet to gently prick the surface and then extracting with a comedone extractor.
- DVigorously squeezing them with fingertips.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Using a lancet to gently prick the surface and then extracting with a comedone extractor.
Milia are encapsulated keratin cysts that cannot be squeezed out. The correct and safest method involves using a sterile lancet to carefully create a tiny opening in the surface of the milium, allowing for gentle extraction with a comedone extractor or by applying slight pressure.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Using a scrub brush is too abrasive and ineffective for removing encapsulated milia; it can damage the skin without addressing the underlying issue.
- B. Applying a strong chemical peel directly to milia is not a targeted extraction method and can cause irritation or burns without effectively removing the milia.
- D. Vigorously squeezing milia is ineffective and can cause trauma, bruising, or scarring because they are not open pores.
Milia Extraction
The professional procedure of using a sterile lancet to create a tiny opening in the skin, followed by gentle pressure with a comedone extractor, to remove encapsulated keratin cysts (milia).
- Milia are encapsulated, not open pores
- Requires a sterile lancet for opening
- Gentle extraction with comedone extractor is key
Memory trick: Lancet first, then gentle squeeze: Milia's clean release.