Which procedure requires the fingers to be wrapped in tissue or moist cotton?

The procedure that requires the fingers to be wrapped in tissue or moist cotton is the extraction of blackheads. This technique is crucial as it helps to maintain hygiene and protects the skin while minimizing the risk of introducing bacteria during the extraction process.

Using wrapped fingers allows the esthetician to exert the necessary pressure to release the clogged debris from the pores without causing damage to the surrounding skin. It also prevents direct contact, which can lead to skin irritation or spread bacteria that may result in post-extraction breakouts.

In contrast, the other procedures mentioned—exfoliating, applying masks, and moisturizing—do not have the same requirement for wrapping fingers. Exfoliating typically involves the use of products or tools rather than finger pressure, applying masks is usually done with brushes or spatulas to prevent contamination, and moisturizing focuses on the application of creams or lotions directly onto the skin with bare hands since the goal is to hydrate the skin effectively. Thus, the need for wrapping fingers is specific to the extraction procedure to ensure safety and cleanliness.