Courtesy of The OutsetIf you’re remotely interested in skincare at all, you know that popping pimples or extracting blackheads is a big no-no. But what’s a girl to do when she wants to clear her pores of sebum, oil, and other debris?
You can of course, pay a visit to your dermatologist, as it’s the safest and most effective way to get rid of blackheads, whether that’s through microdermabrasion or classic extractions.
However, if you’re here, you’re likely looking for a quick, affordable fix that you can do at home. The good news is that you’ve got plenty of options.
What are blackheads?
We all know what blackheads look like, but what are they? Blackheads are a type of acne that results from sebum, oil, dead skin cells, and other debris clogging the hair follicles in your skin.
Blackheads happen to everyone, but there are a few factors that can exacerbate the development of blackheads. These factors include hormones, stress, diet, using overly oily products, and improperly cleansing your skin, to name a few.
How to get rid of blackheads
You’ve got a few at-home options when it comes to removing blackheads, and range from just over $5 to upwards of $100. Ultimately, getting rid of blackheads entails extractions or exfoliants.
Depending on your needs, you might be able to get away with simply exfoliating more often. Dermalogica makes an ultra-fine facial scrub if you prefer physical exfoliants. You can also opt for the popular Paula’s Choice salicylic acid toner or the TikTok viral Medicube pore pads. Regularly using these products not only gets rid of blackheads but helps prevent them from forming in the future.
If you’re into techy beauty tools, you can explore microdermabrasion treatments. These tools are inspired by what you see at the derm’s office and offer a more “aggressive” form of exfoliation. These tools also often have suction capabilities that literally suck the blackheads out of your skin.
Yes, you can get rid of blackheads at home. Shop the best products to achieve clear skin, from exfoliating toners to extraction tools.
Medicube Zero Pore Pads 2.0
These TikTok viral pore pads, which contain AHAs and BHAs, are worth the hype. I have been using them for a few months now and am pleased with way they absorb excess oil and sebum, improve texture and keep blackheads and pimples at bay.
Bioré Original Blackhead Remover Strips
Look, I know these have gotten a bad rap in recent years. But when used sparingly, these pore strips are a quick and low-effort way to remove blackheads in just a few minutes. I use them a few times a year and they really get the job done. 83,400+ reviewers who gave them a 5-star rating agree.
Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Salicylic Acid Exfoliant
My blackheads? Less visible. My pores? Snatched. This lightweight, leave-on exfoliant uses salicylic acid(BHA) to deeply unclog pores, shed dead skin cells, and reveal a brighter complexion—without irritation,” E! commerce writer Camila Quimper said.
Pro tip: start slowly! Use this one or two times a week to begin and slowly build your up to daily use.
Dr. Althea Premium Quick Step Sebum Cleanser
Apply this liquid cleanser to a cotton pad and let it sit for 15 to 20 minutes, during which it will lift excess oil and sebum from follicles. It effortlessly melts away blackheads without irritating skin.
Colorfarm Facial Steamer Nano Ionic
If you’re going to attempt extractions at home, you’ll need to ensure your pores are open. The best way to do that is with this at-home facial steamer, which not only opens pores but also softens blackheads making them easier to remove. Plus, it comes with a set of extraction tools.
Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant
For those who want a physical exfoliant but need a gentle product, this rice-based powder exfoliant. When you add water to the powder, it creates a paste that gently buffs away dead skin leaving skin soft and polished.
Mad Hippie MicroDermabrasion Facial
This classic facial scrub contains glycolic and mandelic acid, AHAs, and hyaluronic acid, effectively using both physical and chemical exfoliants to provide a microdermabrasion treatment.
FOREO KIWI derma Microdermabrasion Machine
This handheld device uses microdermabrasion and vacuum suction to extract blackheads while also improving skin texture overall. It comes with several options for customizable treatments.
PMD Personal Microderm Facial Exfoliator
This device utilizes crystal-laden disks and powerful suction to buff away debris and extract blackheads. It comes with several different heads for customized results.
DERMAPORE+ Ultrasonic Pore Extractor + Skincare Infuser Set
This device is extremely similar to something that your esthetician would use during your facial. It incorporates pulses and vibrations to extract blackheads with minimal effort.
Caudalie Pore Minimizing Instant Detox Mask
This beloved mask is an OG solution to minimizing and preventing blackheads. In ten minutes, this clay-based mask draws out impurities like excess oil and sebum and tightens pores.
The Outset Purifying Blue Clay Mask
This clarifying clay mask unclogs pores by removing dirt and other debris. The best part? It won’t dry out your skin because it’s made with a hyaluronic acid complex.
Mighty Patch Nose Pimple Patches
These nose patches work in a similar way to the fan-favorite pimple patches from the same brand. In a few hours, they absorb a bunch of gunk which you’ll see on the patch after you remove it. It’s equal parts gross and satisfying.
Want a housewife-approved way to achieve smooth skin? Shop the Amazon product RHOSLC’s Meredith Marks swears by.
