The facial treatment process that softens and liquefies accumulations of sebum in the follicle is known as:

The process that softens and liquefies accumulations of sebum in the follicle is accurately referred to as iontophoresis. This technique utilizes a mild electrical current to enhance the penetration of products into the skin, which can help in softening blockages in the follicles. By doing so, iontophoresis aids in facilitating the removal of excess sebum and prevent pore congestion.

When discussing other techniques: exfoliation involves the removal of dead skin cells from the surface of the skin, thereby enhancing texture and clarity but does not specifically address sebum in the follicle. Extraction is primarily the manual removal of comedones or clogged pores, which occurs after they have been softened and may sometimes require pre-treatment for maximum effectiveness. Cleansing is a basic step to remove dirt and make-up but does not directly liquefy sebum in the follicles.

Understanding the role of iontophoresis emphasizes its significance in preparing the skin for further treatments and maintaining clear pores, making this approach crucial in the context of skincare routines aimed at managing oily skin or acne.