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Blackheads: as tempting as they are to squeeze, you really should leave them alone. Trying to push one out can cause irritation, redness and even scarring – and it'll feel pretty uncomfortable too.
Yes, you could drop some cash and have them professionally extracted, but if you're dealing with a mild amount of blackheads, you're better off opting for an at-home treatment; they'll shrink those pesky spots without shrinking your bank balance, too. What's even better, these treatments are easy to use and they don't require any professional help.
Best at-home blackhead treatments
From peels, chemical exfoliants and scrubs, we aren’t short of choices – but choosing the right formula is a subjective process. Someone with sensitive skin may benefit from a gentle toner, while those who are oily prone will get on with a potent acid.
So, if you're stuck on where to start, you’re in the right place because we’ve asked the experts to spill all the need-to-know info about blackheads. No thanks needed.
The best blackhead removers to try now…
How we test...
To find the best blackhead remover treatments on the market, we examined various products, from cleansers and tonics to targeted treatments.
We looked at how well the formula reduced the appearance of blackheads and sebaceous filaments, while also providing other benefits for the skin such as smoothing texture and fading pigmentation. We also examined whether the formula contained other skin-kind ingredients, such as hyaluronic acid, to help nourish and hydrate.
Elements like texture and application were important to consider, too; we looked at how well the formulas sat on the skin and interacted with other skincare products.
Pros
Contains acne-fighting ingredients to tackle blackheads- Smooths texture
- Easy pump applicator
Cons
- Takes consistent use to see results
If you’re serious about banishing those blackheads, invest in this. The encapsulated, slow-released salicylic acid decongests pores and clears the skin – but that’s not all.
The Medik8 Press & Clear has been suitably tweaked for those with sensitivity, so it keeps your barrier calm and nourished too. And because we’re all kids at heart, the pump applicator makes it much more inviting to use.
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Pros
- It swiftly brightens and creates a smoother complexion
- It's easy to use and can be used frequently
- It's a great beginner product if you want to try exfoliating acids
Cons
- It's expensive compared to others in this edit
25 years since AlphaH launched the Liquid Gold Exfoliant, it remains its best-selling product – and for great reason. The toner-like treatment contains glycolic acid, a gentle exfoliating acid, and liquorice to fade pigmentation, smooth texture and create an overall brighter and unified complexion. Think, glass skin.
If you're new to acids, start by using this treatment a few days a week and gradually work your way up.
Pros
- The pink clay draws out impurities and controls oil production
- Grape marc supports a strong and hydrated skin barrier
- Stay loyal to it, and it will help smooth texture and post-acne congestion
Cons
- It's specifically formulated for those with oily skin (whoo) so those with dry skin won't take to it as well
The rumours are true, an aggressive clay mask can cause havoc to already temperamental skin. But luckily, there are so many advanced formulas that decongest without stripping or drying. So after its TikTok viral stardom, we tested this mask and we can confirm that it lives up to the hype.
The formula contains pink clay, coffee extract and grape marc – the solid remains of a grape after pressing, the ingredient Caudalíe is best known for – to draw out impurities buried within pores while promoting a hydrated and radiant complexion. Use weekly and thank us later.
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Pros
- The fluid smooths texture and pigmentation
- It helps to unclog congested pores for a smoother skin surface
- Salicylic acid regulates oil production to prevent future breakouts
- It's fragrance-free
Cons
- The glass bottle is bulky for travel
Whatever Caroline Hirons says, we follow. Skin Rock's The Control Acid may be one of the spennier players in this edit, but it certainly gets the job done. We're talking, smoothing texture, shrinking pores, sucking out blackheads and regulating oil.
How's it done? You've got both salicylic acid and niacinamide putting in extra hours to get your skin in check. Simply dispense onto a cotton bid and smooth over.
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Pros
- Skin feels deeply cleansed without stripping
- Effectively removes stubborn blackheads and congestion
- Prevents future breakouts
- Contains gentle exfoliating particles to exfoliate dead skin cells
Cons
- Some may prefer a more sensorial cleansing experience
The shelf appeal may not be the main attraction here but, as they say, it's what's on the inside that counts – right? Purifide's Blackhead Control Cleanser is a real blemish buster and hard-working clarifier to rid the skin of congestion and blackheads.
It's formulated with salicylic acid to keep pores clear, while glycerin and hyaluronic acid ensures the skin doesn't feel stripped.
Pros
- Improves the appearance of pores
- Lightweight formula – non-sticky
- Reduces the size of blackheads
- Non-comedogenic, so it won't clog pores
Cons
- Formula may be too potent for those with sensitive skin
- Takes consistent use to see results
Cosrx's silky serum may appear unassuming but it packs a serious punch when it comes to decongesting and clarifying.
Brimming with beta-hydroxy-acids, it gently exfoliates and sloughs away dead skin cells while niacinamide ensures your moisture barrier stays intact too. After a few weeks of loyal use, you’ll notice those pesky dots slowly disappear.
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The Inkey List Glycolic Acid Toner
Now 25% Off
Pros
- Provides effective exfoliation
- Minimises the appearance of pores
- Affordable
- Helps to brighten a dull complexion
Cons
- Can feel drying, especially on dehydrated skin
- Some may not like the potent smell
We rate everything The Inkey List does, from formulation to price point, and the same goes for this clarifying cleanser. It spotlights 10% glycolic acid – which is a hefty dose, btw – to gently break down gunk and oil that sit in your pores. After cleansing, sweep the solution over blackhead-infested zones with a cotton round and follow up with a nourishing moisturiser.
Pros
- Can see results instantly
- Smooths texture
- Significantly removes blackheads
Cons
- Expensive
- May experience redness after use
- Can be a little fiddly to begin with
Foreo's KIWI Microdermabrasion Machine is, essentially, a vacuum cleaner for your blackheads. We know that gadgets like these are typically viewed with a hint of side-eye, but we can confirm that the KIWI genuinely works.
Before starting the treatment, ensure your skin is thoroughly cleansed. Then, like a Hoover to a carpet, switch the device onto the medium setting and glide the nozzle over any blackhead-infested zone.
The suction will extract dirt and build up in your pores – and it will even save the gunk for you to observe after your treatment. Gross or oddly satisfying? We think the latter.
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Pros
- Formula works instantly to draw out blackheads
- Helps calm inflammation
Cons
- Some may not like the fizzing sensation
If you find yourself squeezing and picking every tiny dot you finid on your nose, it's about time you invest in this purifying mask from Dermalogica.
Many kaolin clay based masks can feel rather drying, but Dermalogica's treatment has a liquid consistency that works to draw out blackheads without stripping the skin of its natural oils.
Cleverly named, apply the milky lotion onto your blackheads and wait for the formula to bubble and fizz. When this is happening, you know it's working its magic. If you aren't convinced, just let the five-star reviews do the talking.
Pros
- Contains retinaldehyde, so is potent yet less irritating
- Improves smoothness and radiance
- Comes in varying strengths
Cons
- A little bit expensive
If you're looking for something a little more hard-hitting, opt for the Medik8 Crystal Retinal over the Press & Clear.
Not only will retinoids help to decongest blocked pores, but they will work to prevent them by encouraging cell turnover. The iconic Crystal Retinal line also highlights retinaldehyde – a retinoid derivative – which slowly releases within the skin cells, meaning that irritation is less of a concern. This is one of the most advanced formulas out there, and worth every penny.
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Pros
- Exfoliates dead skin cells, unclogs pores, and reduces blackheads.
- Well-tolerated, even by those with sensitive skin
- Fragrance free
- Smooths texture and hyperpigmentation
Cons
- Can cause the skin to purge while it gets used to the active
It’s a bit of an obvious choice, considering everyone and their mum has seen this black bottle on TikTok but, what can we say, it just works.
The hard-working liquid is formulated with salicylic acid to decongest your pores and slough away dead skin – which is ideal for anyone with an acne-prone complexion. Use it enough and your skin will start to feel as smooth as a baby’s bottom (and look as young as one too).
Pros
- Reduces blemishes and prevents further breakouts
- Dermatologist tested – good for sensitive skin
- Non-greasy
Cons
- Takes consistent use to see results
Using a topical exfoliating treatment is a wise idea when tackling blackheads, but know that a hard-working moisturiser can seriously help too. The Effaclar Duo+ Anti-Blemish Moisturiser is the latest innovation from La Roche-Posay and, once again, this treatment delivers.
The lightweight cream presses the 'pause' button on overenthusiastic pores, helping to slow down sebum production and reduce congestion. Anyone with sensitive and acne-prone skin should pay serious attention to this treatment.
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Pros
- Removes blackheads while smoothing texture
- Regulates sebum production
- Hydrates and instantly sinks in
Cons
- May experience a purging phase
Chances are, you've probably already heard of Bioderma for its famous micellar water. But know that the French pharmacy brand has many other impressive treatments in its roster, too.
More than just a soothing serum, this potent tonic features salicylic acid to target even the most stubborn blackheads, while hyaluronic acid ensures the skin stays hydrated and mollified.
The formula is balanced enough so that it can be applied all over, or you can use it as a localised treatment on the areas you need it most.
Pros
- Affordable
- Includes hyaluronic acid for hydration
- 10% lactic acid gently exfoliates the skin to remove blackheads
Cons
- May cause sensitivity
Using a chemical peel may sound daunting, but it's a very effective way to shed dead skin cells and decongest pores. This potent bottle from The Ordinary contains 10% lactic acid and hyaluronic acid to gently exfoliate and soften the skin.
So if you're after an efficacious solution that doesn't break the bank, this one fits the bill.
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Pros
- PHAs and BHA gently exfoliate to clear pores
- Gentle on the skin – can be used daily
- Contains hydrating ingredients
Cons
- Some may not like the sweet, watermelon aroma
Okay, so the packaging of this is adorable but, trust us when we say, it’s more than just a pretty face. The toner is jam-packed with AHAs and BHAs to shrink pores, hyaluronic acid to hydrate and green tea to soothe. Think of it as your chemical exfoliant and hydrating serum merged into one pretty bottle.
Pros
- Developed by dermatologists
- Promotes smoother skin
- More effective than salicylic acid
Cons
- May experience initial redness
Picking and prodding your blackheads is not a wise idea. Your best bet is to get your hands on an exfoliating serum to melt away any build-up.
Avéne's elixir is supercharged with lactic and succinic acid to slough away dead skin cells and decongest pores. Unfortunately, this won't eliminate your pores (this isn’t possible, nor is it practical), however it will minimise their appearance by sucking out excess oil and dirt.
Plus it's formulated with Avéne's patented thermal spring water, so even the most sensitive skin can benefit.
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Pros
- Contains a potent blend of AHAs, BHA, PHAs to exfoliate
- Minimises the look of pores
- Improves skin tone
Cons
- Expensive
- Too potent for those with sensitive skin
Hundreds of chemical peels are vying for your attention, but Dermalogica's Liquid Peelfoliant stands head and shoulders above the rest.
The sophisticated formula cocktails a potent blend of glycolic, salicylic, lactic and phytic acids which – in layman's terms – work together to lift dead skin and oil from your pores.
The milky fluid also contains a fermented pomegranate enzyme which ensures your skin stays hydrated, too. With consistent use, you're on your way to much brighter skin days.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Unclogs pores and smooths texture
- Most skin type can tolerate it well
Cons
- Need to be a Beauty Pie member to get the cheaper price
Members price: £16.50
If you’d like to try a chemical exfoliant but don’t fancy jumping into the deep end, start by dipping your toe in with Beauty Pie's Dr Glycolic pads. Each one is soaked in glycolic acid and niacinamide to refine pores, but won’t conjure a tingly sensation or any irritation.
And just because it’s gentle doesn't mean it's less effective – you’ll still get clear and radiant skin.
