Although they can be particularly satisfying to squeeze, blackheads are some of the most pesky types of spots to get rid of—which is when the best blackhead removers become essential.
Tweaks for adult acne can certainly make a difference if you suffer with different types of breakouts, but if you’re targeting blackheads in particular, there are a few specific ingredients you’ll want to add to your skincare routine for optimum results.
Why do we get blackheads?
“Blackheads are small plugs that form in the exit to the hair follicle (the pore),” says Dr Mervyn Patterson, cosmetic dermatologist at Woodford Medical. “Normally, cells lining the entrance to the follicle gradually move upwards and outwards onto the skin surface as a constant natural procession.
“With blackheads, this movement is slowed causing a build-up of cells in the neck of the hair follicle. It is these cells combined with sebum that cause the plug in the follicle.”
So how come some of us get far more blackheads than others? “It all boils down to genetics, skin type and how much sebum you produce,” Nicolas Travis, founder of Allies of Skin tells us. So if you have oily skin, you’re more likely to have blackheads.
Whiteheads vs blackheads – the difference
“Both whiteheads and blackheads occur the same way; when your pores are clogged with dead skin cells and sebum,” explains Travis. “The difference is that the pores with whiteheads remain closed, while the pores of blackheads are stretched open, exposed to air and oxidise, culminating in the noticeable dark greyish hue.”
Does this difference mean that they need to be treated differently? “No, they can be treated the same way,” Travis confirms.
How to get rid of blackheads on your face
Regular cleansing and exfoliation are key to minimising the number of blackheads, but be sure not to overdo it. Dr Patterson warns: “Skin is not like a frying pan dotted with debris that can just be scrubbed clean.”
“The most important rule is not to over-exfoliate as this can strip the skin barrier,” agrees consultant dermatologist Justine Hextall. “Pale, flushed and drier skin is often more sensitive and should only be exfoliated once a week if necessary; very oily skin, on the other hand, is often more robust and can be exfoliated a couple of times a week.”
So when should it be done? “Night time is prime time for exfoliation as it will prep the skin ready for any night creams to penetrate and treat,” she adds.
“After exfoliating, I recommend using a gentle wash or cleanser to remove any traces of exfoliation before applying leave-on products to the skin.”
“Salicylic acid, retinol and AHAs (mandelic and glycolic acid are particularly effective) are great for loosening the gunk stuck in your pores,” Travis adds. “In the case of salicylic acid, this has the ability to penetrate deeper into your pores to clear out whatever is stuck.”
Shop the best blackhead removers
Allies of Skin
Azelaic and Kojic Advanced Clarifying Serum
This is a serum I use a couple of times a week to keep breakouts at bay, and it works a treat. Azelaic acid works to calm redness, get rid of blackheads, and minimise new breakouts through gentle exfoliation. This formula also improves skin texture and boosts radiance whilst unclogging even the most stubborn pores—all without causing any irritation or redness.
SkinCeuticals
Blemish + Age Defense Serum
SkinCeuticals is one brand that transformed my skin when my breakouts were at their worst. This particular serum is designed to prevent the formation of acne and blackheads by inhibiting sebum production, decongesting clogged pores, and reducing acne-causing bacteria, amongst other things. Lightweight and watery, the Salicylic and Glycolic acid blend sinks in within seconds.
Medik8
Pore Cleanse Gel Intense 150ml
This Medik8 cleanser does exactly what it says on the tin—it decongests clogged pores and buffs away impurities. The AHA/BHA formula breaks down daily build-up and debris, as well as removes excess sebum, to keep blackheads at bay.
La Roche-Posay
Effaclar A.z. Gel Moisturiser for Breakouts & Ageing
If you like lazy skincare, this is the anti-blackhead product for you. This moisturiser uses azelaic acid, salicylic acid, and hyaluronic acid to gently exfoliate, decongest, smooth the skin, and reduce fine lines. It can be slightly drying, so I recommend for oily skin types that want a multi-tasking heavy hitter to manage blackheads.
Cerave
Blemish Control Face Cleanser
Formulated with 2% salicylic acid and niacinamide, it directly targets blackheads by buffing away dead skin cells, reducing the appearance of imperfections, and diminishing excess sebum that can exacerbate blackheads.
Beauty of Joseon
Apricot Blossom Peeling Gel
This affordable K-beauty peeling gel uses physical and chemical exfoliants to detoxify the skin, including 8% plant-derived cellulose and a blend of AHAs. With the addition of brightening rice and apricot blossom waters, it also boosts radiance and evens skin texture.
Cosrx
BHA Blackhead Power Liquid
This exfoliating solution is infused with 4% natural BHA, working to reduce blackhead formation and decongest pores. Clinically proven to reduce blackheads, White Willow Bark and Niacinamide brighten and clarify to refresh the complexion with minimal effort.
Paula’s Choice
Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Exfoliating Toner
One of the most well-known liquid exfoliants, the Paula’s Choice BHA formula is clinically proven to reduce visible blackheads by removing dead skin cells to reveal a smoother and clearer complexion—all without damaging the skin.