Blackheads. Just the word can send shivers down your spine for anyone striving for clear, smooth skin. These pesky blemishes seem to pop up uninvited, often right before a big event. While the urge to squeeze and pick at them is strong, resist! Experts agree that manual extraction can lead to more irritation and potential skin damage. The good news is, effective and safe skin care tools for blackheads are available to help you achieve a clearer complexion. This guide, drawing on expert advice and product testing, will walk you through the best tools and methods to tackle blackheads, ensuring you’re equipped to put your best face forward.
Before we dive into the best skin care tools for blackheads, it’s crucial to understand what these blemishes are and why they appear. According to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Angelo Landriscina, “Blackheads are open comedones, essentially pore blockages that are exposed to the air.” This exposure is key. “Because they are open, the contents on the surface oxidize, which is what gives them their characteristic dark color. In contrast, closed comedones, or whiteheads, don’t oxidize.”
While anyone can get blackheads, they are more common for those with oily and acne-prone skin. Celebrity esthetician and founder of JTAV Clinical Skincare, Joie Tavernise, explains the root cause: “Blackheads occur when excess oil (sebum), dead skin cells, and bacteria accumulate in a pore.” This buildup can be triggered by various factors, including “excessive oil production, inadequate exfoliation leading to dead skin cell buildup, hormonal fluctuations, genetic predisposition, environmental pollutants, and even certain cosmetic products.”
Many skincare professionals, including Dr. Landriscina, advocate for using chemical exfoliants like acne spot treatments or acne serums containing salicylic acid, rather than relying solely on physical tools to minimize irritation. However, certain tools, such as pore vacuums and ultrasonic spatulas, can be safe and effective when used correctly. Dr. Kiran Mian, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City, emphasizes the importance of skin preparation before using any tool. She advises steaming your face to soften the skin around blackheads before extraction. “After steaming for about five minutes to soften the skin, gently cleanse with a salicylic acid cleanser and lukewarm water. Then, you can proceed with your sterilized extractor.”
Below, we explore some of the top-rated skin care tools for blackheads that effectively decongest pores, based on expert recommendations and rigorous testing.
Editor’s Choice: 3 of the Best Skin Care Tools for Blackheads
Choosing the ideal Skin Care Tool For Blackheads really depends on your individual skin type and preferences. If you have dry skin prone to blackheads, you’ll want to avoid harsh products that can disrupt your skin barrier. Oily skin types, on the other hand, might benefit from more intensive treatments, like dual-action exfoliants that combine physical and chemical methods to remove pore-clogging debris. Sensitivity is another key consideration, especially since many blackhead removal tools rely on exfoliating acids such as salicylic acid or glycolic acid. And for those who love the instant gratification of pore strips, there are definitely options available. Instead of declaring one single product as the absolute best, our editors have highlighted three top skin care tools for blackheads that cater to various needs.
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Clinique Clarifying Lotion 2: After extensive testing of numerous blackhead-removing toners, our editors found Clinique’s Clarifying Lotion 2 to be the most universally effective and gentle option for a variety of skin types. It features witch hazel, known for its pore-purging properties, alongside hyaluronic acid to replenish moisture, preventing that stripped, dry feeling after use. It’s gentle enough for twice-daily use, even for oily skin.
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Hero Cosmetics Mighty Patch Face Patch: For a quick overnight solution, Hero Cosmetics’ face patches are a standout. Our testers were particularly impressed with their staying power – unlike many similar patches that tend to slip off overnight. For optimal results, exfoliate your skin before applying the patch. You’ll get the satisfying pore-strip effect, and the pack includes various shapes to cover different areas of your face like cheeks and forehead.
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Olay Face Cleansing Melts with Retinol: Incorporating a pore-clearing face wash into your daily skin care routine is one of the simplest ways to combat blackheads. We recommend Olay Face Cleansing Melts with Retinol for this purpose. These innovative tabs transform into a rich, foaming cleanser with a gentle dose of retinol when activated with a few drops of warm water. Retinol is key for preventing clogged pores.
Clinique Clarifying Lotion 2
Product type: Exfoliating toner
Pros: Gentle enough for daily use
Cons: May be too strong for very sensitive skin
One of the most effective strategies for preventing blackheads is consistent use of an exfoliating toner. Rather than physically scrubbing the skin, these toners work to dissolve dead skin cells that contribute to blackhead formation. Regular daily use can not only clear existing blackheads but also prevent new ones from appearing.
Clinique Clarifying Lotion 2 is a popular choice thanks to its effective formula that gently resurfaces the skin without causing redness or peeling. Its key ingredient, witch hazel, is a proven acne fighter that helps regulate excess oil production. The formula also includes hyaluronic acid to maintain skin hydration, leaving your complexion clear and plump.
Editor testing and review notes: “As tempting as it is to attack blackheads by squeezing them, I’ve learned that consistency is key to clearer pores. This toner has been a game-changer for me. Using it every night, I’ve noticed a significant reduction in pore visibility, even under magnification, without any irritation. It’s perfect for combination skin like mine, controlling oil in the T-zone while hydrating the rest of my face for a balanced result.” — Senior Beauty & Lifestyle Commerce Editor Claire Sullivan
Hero Cosmetics Mighty Patch Face Patch
Product type: Pore strips
Pros: Large patches cover multiple facial areas
Cons: Limited patches per box
Blackheads aren’t just confined to the nose; they can appear across your entire face. Traditional pore strips are often designed only for the nose, but Mighty Patch Face Patch is different. This pack contains five hydrocolloid patches designed to target blackheads across the face: one each for the forehead, nose, and chin, and two for the cheeks. Simply apply them to the designated areas before bed, and they work overnight to draw out blackheads and impurities.
Editor testing and review notes: “Hero Cosmetics is known for some of the best pimple patches on the market, and these blackhead patches are equally impressive. They adhere strongly to the skin, so you can easily wear them overnight or while doing chores without them shifting. I’m consistently amazed at how quickly they clear my pores, especially when used after an exfoliating serum.” — Sullivan
What testers say: “I’ve used many patches for facial pimples and nose blackheads, and these work wonders. Easy to use: wash and dry your face, then apply. I prefer using them overnight and removing them in the morning. Clear skin overnight!”
Olay Face Cleansing Melts with Retinol
Product type: Water-activated face wash pad
Pros: Travel-friendly, gentle retinol introduction
Cons: May take a moment to fully dissolve
Cleansing is a fundamental step in both treating and preventing blackheads, and Olay has innovated the cleansing routine. Instead of typical liquid cleansers, Olay Cleansing Melts are water-activated pads that transform into a rich foam when you add water. These melts are effective skin care tools for blackheads because they contain retinol, a gold-standard ingredient in anti-aging and also highly beneficial for acne-prone skin. Retinol speeds up skin cell turnover, reducing the buildup of dead skin cells that clog pores.
Olay’s Cleansing Melts are also perfect for travel; these tabs are TSA-friendly and leak-proof, unlike liquid cleansers. They’re also an excellent option for those with sensitive skin who find retinol serums too strong, as the skin’s exposure to retinol is brief during cleansing compared to overnight treatments.
Editor testing and review notes: “I’ve tried cleansers in every form imaginable, but a water-activated, fully-dissolvable face wash pad was a first for me. These tiny tabs are surprisingly potent; just a few drops of water create the perfect amount of foam for a deep cleanse. As someone with sensitive skin and occasional rosacea, I’m cautious with vitamin A, but this was just the right amount. After a week of daily use, I saw a noticeable improvement in my blackheads, especially around my nose.” — Sullivan
Tweezerman No-Slip Skin Care Tool
Product type: Facial tool
Pros: Textured handle for secure grip
Cons: Less effective for very small blackheads
This tool may be simple, but the Tweezerman No-Slip Skin Care Tool effectively removes blackheads without a hefty price tag. This basic tool features loops on both ends: a larger one for whiteheads and a smaller one for blackheads. To use, ensure both your skin and the tool are clean. Position the appropriate loop around the blackhead and apply gentle pressure. This helps to extract the blackhead without harming the surrounding skin. Tavernise recommends applying a warm compress beforehand to soften the area and facilitate easier extraction. Always sanitize the tool and your skin after use.
What testers say: “This tool works great. I tend to pick at my skin, sometimes using sharper tools. This helps me extract blackheads more consciously and gently. Since using it, I pick less and am gentler when I do.”
First Aid Beauty Compostable Facial Radiance Pads
Product type: Facial exfoliating pads
Pros: Compostable and eco-friendly
Cons: May require multiple uses for blackhead clearing
For days when you wear heavy makeup or diligently reapply sunscreen, residue buildup can clog pores and lead to blackheads. First Aid Beauty’s exfoliating pads are excellent skin care tools for blackheads, suitable for both oily and dry skin. They’re infused with glycolic and lactic acids, AHAs that gently remove debris without stripping the skin’s moisture barrier. AHAs are known for exfoliating dead skin cells while also hydrating the skin, preventing dryness. These pads not only help clear blackheads but also promote a brighter, more radiant complexion with consistent use.
If you’re concerned about single-use beauty products, these pads are compostable, making them a more sustainable choice.
Editor testing and review notes: “After spending a lot on expensive exfoliating pads, I tried these more affordable ones from First Aid Beauty and was surprised to find they delivered the same results. No irritation, just clear, glowing skin. I can use them almost daily, but for my combination skin, every other day is perfect for keeping blackheads at bay.” — Sullivan
Dermaflash Dermapore Ultrasonic Pore Extractor and Skin Care Infuser
Product type: Facial tool
Pros: Multi-functional tool for extraction and serum infusion
Cons: Less effective for deeply embedded blackheads
Tavernise highly recommends the Dermaflash Dermapore Pore Extractor because it’s gentle on sensitive skin and offers a two-in-one design for pore clearing and serum enhancement. “This esthetician-recommended tool cleans and unclogs pores while also enhancing serum penetration,” she notes. “Ultrasonic speed and ionic technology painlessly remove dirt, oil, and blackheads, instantly minimizing pore appearance.” For blackhead removal, apply the included Prep Mist and use the extract mode. Hold the skin taut and glide the tool over congested areas. Debris will collect on the spatula as blackheads are extracted. Then, switch to infuse mode, apply a serum, and use the flat edge to enhance absorption.
Editor testing and review notes: “I usually prefer chemical exfoliants over tools, but this one is a great gentle option for manual extraction. The subtle vibration helps to unclog pores without causing redness, and it’s very easy to clean.” — Sullivan
Naturium BHA Liquid Exfoliant 2%
Product type: Liquid exfoliating toner
Pros: Treats breakouts and blackheads; non-irritating
Cons: Dry skin types need a good moisturizer afterward
If you have sensitive, acne-prone skin, finding a product that addresses both concerns can be challenging. Naturium BHA Liquid Exfoliant is an excellent skin care tool for blackheads in this case. It’s designed for breakout-prone skin that tends to get irritated by typical acne spot treatments.
This exfoliant contains a potent concentration of salicylic acid, which not only clears pores but also reduces inflammation. Combined with fruit-derived acids, salicylic acid minimizes pore appearance and smooths skin texture. Naturium’s formula is also free of alcohol and oils, common irritants for sensitive and acne-prone skin.
Editor testing and review notes: “Adding this exfoliant to my routine gives me the kind of clear, bright skin I usually only get from regular masking and staying well-hydrated. My skin feels clean and refreshed, not stripped. For the price, it’s fantastic.” — Sullivan
Bioré The Original Deep Cleansing Pore Strips
Product type: Pore strips
Pros: 14 strips per pack
Cons: Designed for nose blackheads only
If you’ve seen satisfying pore strip removal videos online and are tempted to try them, Dr. Landriscina recommends Bioré Original Deep Cleansing Pore Strips. “They use patented C-bond technology that specifically binds to blackheads and sebaceous filaments when wet,” he explains. “When used correctly, they can remove blackheads without damaging the surrounding skin.”
These strips work only on damp skin, so re-wet your nose after cleansing. Press the strip firmly onto your nose and let it dry for 10-15 minutes before carefully peeling it off. You’ll likely be amazed (and maybe slightly grossed out) by the extracted debris.
What testers say: “I’ve had enlarged pores and blackheads on my nose since my son was born. I’ve tried many products, but nothing works like Bioré. They’re easy to apply and peel off, don’t hurt, and don’t irritate my sensitive skin. Seeing what they pull out is so satisfying! Finally, a bump-free nose!”
Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
Product type: Liquid exfoliant
Pros: Clears various acne types, not just blackheads
Cons: Bottle may leak
Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant has gained a cult following for its ability to smooth skin texture, fade dark spots, and eliminate blackheads. It’s praised on TikTok and Sephora for its transformative effects. Dr. Mian is also a fan, noting that this face exfoliator effectively transforms acne-prone, combination, and even dry skin with salicylic acid. To avoid irritation, use it sparingly—once a week after cleansing is usually sufficient.
What testers say: “I’ve been using this for months and see a huge difference in pore cleanliness. I didn’t know how people kept their noses clear of blackheads until now. Don’t use it daily to avoid damaging your skin barrier. I alternate this with retinol and hydration nights, and my skin looks so much better. Unscented and dries well.”
Peace Out AHA Pore & Blackhead Exfoliator Multitasking Treatment Stick
Product type: Exfoliating mask
Pros: Travel-friendly stick application
Cons: Potentially harsh for dry and sensitive skin
Dr. Mian stresses the importance of gentle blackhead removal to protect the skin barrier. She recommends chemical exfoliants, especially salicylic acid. “Salicylic acid is a BHA small enough to penetrate pores and clean them without causing inflammation,” she says. The Peace Out stick contains salicylic acid, AHAs, kaolin clay, and mushroom extract for deep blackhead removal. Apply this scrubby mask to problem areas like the T-zone, leave for 10 minutes, and rinse. This formula cleanses, exfoliates, nourishes, refines pores, mattifies skin, and prevents future breakouts.
What testers say: “I’ve tried everything for nose blackheads, even DIY masks. This stick is much easier, quicker, and travel-friendly. It cleaned out my blackheads, and my pores look smaller afterward.”
Neutrogena Stubborn Texture Daily Acne Facial Cleanser
Product type: Face cleanser
Pros: Dermatologist-recommended for daily use
Cons: Potential irritation with other acne products
“I prefer salicylic acid cleansers for blackheads because they’re less irritating than leave-on exfoliants,” says Dr. Landriscina. “Neutrogena’s Stubborn Texture Cleanser is a favorite.” This cleanser is designed to smooth rough texture and reduce acne, combining 1% salicylic acid with 2% glycolic acid and polyhydroxy acid. Daily use can reduce blemishes and leave acne-prone skin clear and soft.
What testers say: “I use it a few times a week for my oily skin; my mom uses it once a week. It’s helped us both a lot. You definitely need moisturizer with this. We’ve also found it helpful for body acne.”
Beautybio Glofacial Pore Cleansing Tool
Product type: Facial tool
Pros: Replicates professional Hydrafacial treatments
Cons: Must remain upright to function
The Beautybio Glofacial Pore Cleansing Tool is the closest you can get to an at-home Hydrafacial. It removes dirt, oil, makeup, and blackheads while infusing skin with salicylic acid and hyaluronic acid. Salicylic acid clears pores and prevents breakouts, while hyaluronic acid hydrates and plumps. Fill the device with water and the included concentrate, then glide it over your face.
Editor testing and review notes: “I tested this during the holidays when I wanted quick radiance. It’s like a DIY Hydrafacial, giving similar glowing, clean results. It can be tricky around the nose, but it’s great for clearing pores on the forehead, chin, and cheeks.” — Sullivan
PMD Beauty Personal Microderm Elite Pro
Product type: Facial tool
Pros: Can be used on the body as well
Cons: Short battery life
The PMD Beauty Personal Microderm Elite Pro is popular on TikTok for its physical exfoliation using crystal discs and gentle suction to remove dead skin cells and pore-cloggers. Weekly use can lead to smooth, radiant skin.
This device comes with four disc types for different exfoliation intensities. Start with the sensitive skin disc and adjust as needed. For blackhead extraction, use the blackhead cap and gently glide it over congested areas.
What testers say: “If you have realistic expectations, you’ll likely enjoy this. It’s not a salon treatment, but the price is much different. I see a big improvement on my forehead, where I tend to break out. Less difference in nose pore size, though. I’m pleased with its construction and sturdiness after using it for over a month.”
Skin Gym Ultrasonic Lumiscrub Facial Pro Skin Spatula
Product type: Facial tool
Pros: Microcurrent and ion technologies for sculpting and blood flow
Cons: Only one power setting
Instead of squeezing blackheads, the Skin Gym Lumiscrub uses vibrations, microcurrent, and ionic technologies to gently remove blackheads, sebaceous filaments, and dead skin. It also provides a relaxing facial massage while deep cleaning. Flip it to the flat side to help serums and moisturizers absorb better.
What testers say: “This product does exactly what it says. It removes blackheads and sebum. Flip it over after cleansing and apply moisturizer; the warmth and vibration help product absorption.”
The Different Types of Skin Care Tools for Blackheads
Skin care tools for blackheads come in various forms, each with its own mechanism of action. These include:
- Pore Strips: These adhesive strips physically pull out blackheads and debris from pores when removed.
- Manual Extractors (Loop Tools): These tools have loops designed to gently press around a blackhead and extract it.
- Ultrasonic Spatulas: These devices use ultrasonic vibrations to loosen and expel blackheads and other pore-clogging materials.
- Pore Vacuums: These tools use suction to draw out blackheads and impurities from pores.
- Chemical Exfoliants (Toners, Serums, Cleansers, Masks): These products contain ingredients like salicylic acid, glycolic acid, or retinol to dissolve dead skin cells and unclog pores chemically.
How to Use Blackhead Remover Tools and Extractors Safely
If you choose to use a blackhead extractor tool instead of chemical exfoliants, extra caution is needed. Improper use and unhygienic tools can worsen blackheads and damage your skin. Follow these steps for safe at-home extraction:
- Cleanse the skin: Proper prep is essential. Tavernise recommends cleansing your skin thoroughly and applying a warm compress to the area to be treated. This softens pore contents and brings oil to the surface. Wash your hands and sanitize the tool with rubbing alcohol before starting.
- Use your preferred blackhead extractor: Follow these tips for different tool types:
- Pore vacuums: Start with the lowest suction setting and glide over the area once. Avoid repeating passes to prevent irritation or skin damage.
- Pore spatulas: Dampen your face before use, as these work best on moist skin. Hold skin taut and glide the tool over congested areas. Wipe the spatula clean as debris is expelled.
- Dual-ended extractors: Tavernise advises, “Blackhead extractors usually have a small and a large loop. Choose the loop size based on the blackhead size. Position the loop around the blackhead, applying even, gentle pressure to fully surround it. Roll the tool slightly side to side while pressing to ease the blackhead out.”
- Sanitize: After use, clean the tool with a rubbing alcohol-soaked paper towel. Tavernise recommends a post-extraction routine: “Cleanse your skin again, use a gentle toner to remove bacteria and soothe, and finish with a calming or hydrating non-comedogenic serum and moisturizer.”
How We Chose the Best Blackhead Removal Tools
WWD, a leading authority in fashion and beauty since 1910, provides trusted information for industry professionals and consumers alike. Our shopping editors maintain WWD’s high editorial standards by selecting expert-backed, quality products.
To compile this list of effective and safe skin care tools for blackheads, we conducted extensive market research on top-rated and best-selling products from retailers like Sephora, Ulta, and Amazon. We carefully analyzed hundreds of customer reviews and interviewed skincare experts to understand blackhead treatment and appropriate at-home tools and formulations. Our final list of recommended blackhead removers combines expert advice, highly-rated products, and our own hands-on testing experiences. Learn more about us here.
Meet the Experts
Dr. Angelo Landriscina is a board-certified dermatologist in New York City, known for sharing evidence-based skincare advice with humor on TikTok and Instagram as “skinfather.”
Joie Tavernise is a New York-based celebrity esthetician with over 20 years of experience and founder of JTAV Clinical Skincare, emphasizing a “less-is-more” approach and meticulous extractions.
Dr. Kiran Mian is a board-certified dermatologist at Hudson Dermatology & Laser Surgery in New York City, specializing in hair, skin, and nails, and advocating for holistic wellness and science-backed skincare.
Meet the Authors
Mary Honkus is a freelance beauty writer with over five years of experience in skincare, makeup, and hair care, with bylines in InStyle, People, Real Simple, Cosmopolitan, and Us Weekly.
Claire Sullivan is the Senior Beauty and Lifestyle Commerce Editor for Footwear News and WWD, with over eight years of experience writing and editing for national media including Martha Stewart Living, InStyle, and Byrdie, contributing to this article’s August 2024 update.
