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We Tested Over 40 Blackhead Removers—These Are the Top 12 for a Clear Complexion

The best blackhead removal treatments penetrate deep to decongest pores and restore balance

Blackhead Removers

Health

Blackheads are a common skin concern that causes small, dark bumps on the skin. Though they can occur anywhere on the body, they’re most commonly found on the nose, chin, and forehead—also known as the T-zone. While blackheads aren’t inherently harmful, they can be difficult to get rid of and may cause the skin to appear dull or unhealthy.

A number of factors contribute to the formation of blackheads, including excess oil production, dead skin cells, and makeup buildup. And while some people are more prone to blackheads than others, anyone can get them. Luckily, a proactive skincare routine and the right blackhead treatments can help.

After speaking with dermatologists, we tested over four dozen face washes in the Health lab. We assessed the face washes based on ease of use, feel, effectiveness, hydration, and appearance. A pharmacist with board certification in geriatric pharmacotherapy on our Medical Expert Board also reviewed this article for medical and scientific accuracy regarding what to look for in blackhead removers, how they work, and whether blackheads can be safely removed at home.

Our Top Picks

Editor's Take

I’m an editor for Health focusing on skin and body care. However, I developed skin sensitivity later in life, so I've had to be cautious about the skincare products I use. For years, my go-to has been the Cetaphil Extra Gentle Daily Scrub. It’s been a lifesaver in maintaining a clear complexion without aggravating my sensitive skin. 


However, I was excited to hear the positive reviews about La Roche-Posay Ultra-Fine Scrub for Sensitive Skin. Always on the lookout for new, effective blackhead removers, I decided to give it a try. It didn't cause any irritation, and I am grateful to have found another option that suits my skin’s needs.


When selecting a blackhead remover, look at the ingredients. Some ingredients, like alcohol, can strip the skin of its protection and moisture, explains Nadir Qazi, DO, board-certified physician, cosmetic dermatology surgeon, and owner of Qazi Cosmetic Clinic in Irvine, California. Without that protection, the skin is exposed to bacteria, which causes the sebaceous gland to replace the protection by producing more oil than was lost, leading to clogged pores.


-Lauren Paige Richeson, Editor

Ingredients to Look for in Blackhead Removers

The best blackhead removal products contain active ingredients that target blackheads and the factors contributing to their formation. These ingredients work differently to exfoliate the skin, unclog pores, absorb excess oils, and clarify the complexion. Some of the most common ingredients used in blackhead products include:

  • Salicylic acid: A type of beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that helps exfoliate the skin, unclog pores, and reduce inflammation.
  • Benzoyl peroxide: A powerful acne-fighting ingredient that helps kill bacteria and unclog pores.
  • Sulfur: A natural antiseptic agent that helps dry out excess oil and calm inflammation.
  • Charcoal: A natural detoxifier that helps draw out impurities and absorb excess oils
  • Glycolic acid: An alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that binds to dead skin cells and helps break them down, resulting in brighter, smoother skin.
  • Retinoids: Vitamin A derivatives that help improve cell turnover and reduce the stickiness of sebum, which can help prevent clogged pores. Retinoids are available by prescription only.

Why We Like It

In our testing, we found Fenty Skin's Cherry Dub Superfine Daily Cleansing Face Scrub to be the best face scrub for blackhead removal. True to its description, it resembles cherry jam in appearance and texture with an evenly dispensed, visually appealing, bright purple-red hue. The scrub has a delightful, thick, and slightly gritty texture, akin to old-fashioned jelly with seeds, effectively adhering to the skin for a thorough exfoliation experience. It transforms from a sticky jam-like texture to a creamy consistency, leaving the skin smooth and refreshed without any discomfort.

The subtle cherry scent adds to the experience without being overpowering. The product is easy to distribute and washes off effortlessly, leaving the skin baby-soft and thoroughly cleansed. Despite initial hesitations about physical exfoliants, this scrub left our skin looking and feeling rejuvenated, making it a recommended addition to skincare routines for a healthy, polished glow.

It’s Worth Noting

While effective in providing gentle exfoliation, individuals with sensitive skin may find these particles slightly abrasive. It's important to be cautious and not apply excessive pressure during use to avoid any potential irritation or discomfort. For those with very sensitive or easily irritated skin, an alternative, more gentle exfoliation method might be better.

Product Details:

  • Skin Type: All
  • Key Ingredients: Barbados Cherry, Superfine Sugar, Silica Exfoliants, Cranberry, Pomegranate, Papaya, Pineapple Enzymes, Caffeine
  • Size: 3.4 oz

Why We Like It

Known for being a trusted brand, the Cetaphil Extra Gentle Daily Scrub stood out as the best budget-friendly choice for individuals in search of an effective yet affordable option that promotes a brighter, even-toned complexion while being kind to the skin.

The texture is mildly gritty but not overly thick, resembling a typical face wash. It thins out upon application, maintaining a pleasing lather that feels gentle and not too abrasive. This scrub has a subtle and fresh scent reminiscent of baby lotion, which doesn't linger after washing. It effectively cleanses and removes dirt without causing any discomfort or excessive dryness. Applying a nickel-sized amount was sufficient for the entire face, and the scrub distributed easily without feeling thick. After use, our skin felt clean and refreshed, exhibiting a smoother and softer texture, especially on the cheeks and chin. It provided a subtle glow, reduced redness, and helped control oiliness, making it ideal for those seeking a low-maintenance, gentle skincare solution.

It’s Worth Noting

The scrub's mild and gentle nature, while suitable for regular use and sensitive skin, may not be sufficient for individuals looking for a deeper exfoliating experience.

Product Details:

  • Skin Type: Combination to oily, sensitive skin
  • Key Ingredients: Hydrating Glycerin, Vitamins B5 and E
  • Size: 6.4 oz

Why We Like It

Oil production is necessary for healthy skin, but when it's out of balance, it can lead to clogged pores and breakouts. The Lush Happy Skin Enzymic Facial Exfoliator proves to be an excellent choice for oily skin, delivering a smooth, velvety, and moisturized feel.

The scrub has a creamy texture with small sand-like particles that feel gentle on the skin and provide a refreshing sensation during and after use. Though the product has a faint nutty scent reminiscent of peanut butter, it lingers for a short duration after application. Despite this, the scrub worked wonders for our skin, offering a gentle yet effective exfoliation experience that was suitable for all areas of the face. Applying a nickel-sized amount was just right, and the lack of lather wasn't a concern, given its grainy scrub consistency. The texture left our skin feeling slightly tighter in a positive way, imparting a beautiful glow and a silky smooth finish without any dryness or discomfort.

Even with daily use, it didn't cause irritation or flaking, leaving our skin noticeably smoother and softer. It felt invigorating and gave our skin a healthy glow, especially when used before bed. Despite the mild fragrance, we loved the overall effect on our skin.

It’s Worth Noting

Although subtle, the scent lingers for a short period after use, which could be a downside for those sensitive to fragrances or seeking a product with no lingering scent.

Product Details:

  • Skin Type: Combination or oily
  • Key Ingredients: Safflower Petal Infusion, Bamboo Stem Extract, Tagua Nut Powder, Glycerine
  • Size: 3.5 oz

Why We Like It

The Tatcha Rice Polish Foaming Enzyme Powder stands out as the best choice for dry skin due to its incredibly fine exfoliant texture. It provides a radiant and glowing complexion, effectively lightening dark spots from acne and leaving the skin softer and smoother.

It's reminiscent of sugar or fine sand found on a pristine beach, and when mixed with a few drops of water, the exfoliating particles dissolve seamlessly, making it a hybrid between a scrub and a cleanser. It's remarkably gentle, making it suitable for daily use, even for those with sensitive skin. The fine exfoliant particles ensure a gentle and effective exfoliation without causing any discomfort or feeling like it's tearing at the skin.

The product has a very faint, almost untraceable clean scent, which is a great advantage, especially for those sensitive to strong fragrances in cleansers. The gentle nature of this scrub-cleanser mixture ensures that it doesn't leave the skin feeling parched or overly stripped after use, a common concern with some other scrubs.

Applying and using this product is easy once you get used to the powder-to-scrub process. It doesn't require a lot of product; a small amount, around half a teaspoon, is sufficient. It lathers effortlessly, transforming into a foamy cleanser-like texture that leaves the skin feeling clean and smooth without any dryness. It's a perfect product for gentle yet effective exfoliation, suitable for dry skin types seeking a gentle yet revitalizing scrub.

It’s Worth Noting

It might take a bit of time to get accustomed to the process of turning the powder into a scrub and finding the right water-to-powder ratio for an optimal texture.

Product Details:

  • Skin Type: All skin types
  • Key Ingredients: Japanese Rice Bran, Rice, Green Tea, and Algae
  • Size: 2.1 oz
A closed box of Tatcha The Rice Polish Classic Foaming Enzyme Powder on a white background

Health

Why We Like It

The Skinceuticals Micro-Exfoliating Scrub is the ideal choice for those with combination skin seeking an effective blackhead remover, providing noticeable improvements in skin texture and pore size. The solution itself has a gel-like formula, and the exfoliating particles are incredibly fine, almost like microscopic sand particles, making them invisible to the naked eye. While they may feel slightly chalky, they provide the texture expected of a scrub without being rough on the skin.

It effectively penetrates crevices to clean out pores without causing any discomfort or harsh sensations on the skin. The exfoliating particles break down as you rub, allowing for a thorough but gentle scrubbing experience. Using this scrub is a breeze, especially due to its gel formula, which makes spreading it across the skin effortless. Just a pea-sized amount is sufficient for the face, making it economical to use. Although it doesn't lather much, the gel glides smoothly across the face, leaving a soft complexion after each use.

The scrub leaves the skin feeling fresh and helps minimize the size of pores, especially when focusing on areas like the nose. Remarkably, it effectively addresses oiliness without causing dryness. After using it regularly, we noticed improved skin texture, softer skin, and better absorption of our other skincare products. The Skinceuticals Micro-Exfoliating Scrub has proven to be a valuable addition to our skincare routine and we consider it a dermatologist-recommended gem that we will continue to rely on.

It’s Worth Noting

It may feel slightly chalky due to the fine exfoliating particles, which could be a minor inconvenience for those who prefer a smoother texture during exfoliation.

Product Details:

  • Skin Type: All skin types
  • Key Ingredients: Hydrated Silica, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Glycerin
  • Size: 5 oz 

Why We Like It

The Repechage Honey & Almond Facial Scrub is gentle yet effective and doesn't require a significant time commitment, making it a fantastic option for those looking for natural ingredients. This scrub leaves the skin feeling thoroughly cleansed and hydrated, effectively scrubbing away impurities without harshness.

Despite its grainy appearance, the scrub is surprisingly gentle, resembling a smooth oatmeal paste with a slightly sticky consistency, and it's remarkably creamy and not overly gritty. It maintains its thick texture, ensuring it stays in place on your hands during application. The scent, resembling honey and oats, is pleasant without being overpowering and fades quickly after use. We used the product 2-3 times a week as recommended but found it gentle enough for daily use, especially when mixed with a bit of water for easy spreading. Surprisingly, a small amount of product goes a long way, covering the entire face adequately.

Our skin felt thoroughly clean and refreshed after use, without any tightness or dryness. It didn't cause flaking, which is a plus for those with dry or sensitive skin types. It provided a noticeable glow and a more even skin texture, promoting a healthy look.

 It’s Worth Noting

Its thick consistency can make it a bit challenging to spread on the skin, especially if the skin isn't damp.

Product Details:

  • Skin Type: All skin types
  • Key Ingredients: Honey, Almond Meal, Oatmeal, St. John's Wort
  • Size: 5 oz
An opened Repechage Honey & Almond Facial Scrub shipping box on a wooden floor

Health

Why We Like It

We found the PanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash with Benzoyl Peroxide to be an outstanding choice for acne-prone skin seeking a potent, medicinal face wash to combat acne and breakouts.

The texture of the cleanser is a thick gel with a creamy feel. While it felt a tad sticky on the skin, it was gentle and not overly harsh. Making sure our face was well dampened helped in spreading it easily, even though it didn't produce a lather.

One notable advantage was the absence of any scent, making it gentle on the skin and avoiding potential irritation. Surprisingly, a single application effortlessly removed a full face of foundation, breaking it down rapidly without leaving any residue, eliminating the need for a second cleanse and streamlining our makeup removal routine.

While consistent daily use might risk moisture loss due to the Benzoyl Peroxide content, using it for the first time felt comfortable and didn't dry out the skin. Our skin felt thoroughly cleansed and makeup-free. It left our skin prepped and ready for the next steps in our skincare routine.

It’s Worth Noting

It’s strong stuff: you’ll need to go slow to make sure you don’t dry out or irritate your skin, and it may be too potent for some.

Product Details:

  • Skin Type: Acne-prone skin, oily skin
  • Key Ingredients: 10% Benzoyl peroxide
  • Size: 5. 5 oz
PanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash displayed on tan and gray background

Health

Why We Like It

We found the La Roche-Posay Ultra-Fine Scrub for Sensitive Skin to be a standout choice for those seeking gentle blackhead removal with sensitive skin. The scrub features varying sizes of scrubbing beads within a gel-like wash. Compared to other scrubs, this one is notably gentle on the skin, providing a smooth exfoliating experience without irritation.

We appreciated how it felt on our skin—it was gentle enough for daily use, a rarity in scrubs. While some graininess persisted during application, it effectively smoothed our skin, leaving it hydrated without any dryness. We found using a nickel to quarter-sized amount ensured even coverage.

The post-scrub feeling was excellent—smooth, hydrated, and refreshed skin. It provided immediate softness, though continued use is necessary for longer-term effects. While it imparted a subtle glow after use, the lasting impression was in how it made our skin noticeably softer. It's a valuable addition to a skincare routine, providing a thorough yet gentle cleansing experience.

It’s Worth Noting

The scrub does have a strong "fresh" scent which doesn't last long on the skin but might be a bit overwhelming for those who are sensitive to fragrances or prefer unscented products.

Product Details:

  • Skin Type: Sensitive, combination, oily
  • Key Ingredients: Ultra-fine pumice particles, Antioxidant thermal spring water
  • Size: 1.69 oz

Why We Like It

The Kate Somerville ExfoliKate Intensive Pore Exfoliating Treatment with Prebiotics is a great pick for those looking for a spa-like facial scrub. Its luxurious texture and vibrant green hue make it reminiscent of a high-quality mud mask, enhanced with fine exfoliant beads that offer gentle yet effective exfoliation.

The creamy texture and soothing herbal tea-like scent elevate the skincare experience.

It has a slightly intense tingling sensation when left on the skin, but limiting usage to twice a week ensures optimal results without irritation. The scrub maintains its grainy texture, seamlessly gliding on the skin despite its thickness, requiring only a small amount for full coverage. Post-use, the skin feels exceptionally soft, moisturized, and notably smoother, without any dryness or flaking. The treatment evens out skin tone, leaving a radiant, hydrated complexion, showcasing a slight glow over time. This facial scrub impressed with its effectiveness and delightful details, making it a favored choice for rejuvenating and brightening the skin.

It’s Worth Noting

Its relatively high price point compared to other exfoliating treatments available in the market might deter budget-conscious consumers or those looking for more affordable options.

Product Details:

  • Skin Type: Oily, Combination, Normal
  • Key Ingredients: Papaya, Pineapple, and Pumpkin Enzymes, Lactic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Silica, Aloe Vera, Honey, Vitamin E
  • Size: 0.5, 1.7, 2, 5 oz
Closeup of Kate Somerville ExfoliKate Intensive Exfoliating Treatment dollop on finger

Health

Why We Like It

Salicylic acid offers the benefit of gentle exfoliation and deep pore penetration, effectively unclogging pores, reducing acne, and promoting smoother, clearer skin. Skinfix Azelaic Acid BHA/AHA is a gentle cleanser with salicylic acid to effectively decongest pores by clearing excess oil and surface debris.

The face wash comes in a convenient squeeze tube with a flip lid. Though the thin and liquid texture wasn't appealing initially, once we added water and worked it into our skin, we discovered it was gentle and easy to spread, offering a nice slip. The fragrance was subtle and didn't cause any irritation to our skin. The face wash worked really well, leaving our skin feeling cleaner without the need for extra effort. Despite our initial concerns about its color and texture, the results pleasantly surprised us.

Even with the BHA content, we were worried about it being too stripping or drying, but it actually proved otherwise. Though we didn't experience intense hydration or moisturization after use, we understood that's something we typically achieve through our regular skincare routine. As for visible changes, we didn't notice any, but our skin felt clean

It’s Worth Noting

The combination of azelaic acid, BHA, and AHA could potentially cause irritation or adverse reactions in those with hypersensitive skin types.

Product Details:

  • Active Ingredients: 10% Benzoyl peroxide 
  • Skin Type: Oily, Combo, Normal 
  • Size: 5 oz.
Skinfix Acne+ 2% BHA Cleanser displayed on a blue and tan background

Health

Why We Like It

For those who appreciate lightweight, foaming cleansers, we strongly suggest giving the one from Kopari Beauty a try. The consistency of the face wash was light, soft, and fluffy, giving us a delightful foam feeling on our face. It felt very gentle and soothing, not sticky, thick, or watery, which we loved, thanks to the foamy texture. It lathered well, with the foam spreading easily and evenly across every area of our face. The smell was fantastic, like a tropical paradise, enhancing the soothing experience during application.

This face wash did an incredible job of cleansing our skin. With just one take, it removed all the mascara and lotion from our initial morning routine, and we didn't need a second cleanse. The cleanser washed off effortlessly due to its light consistency, leaving no film or excess to deal with. Our skin didn't feel over-stripped or tight after using the cleanser. It was adequately cleansed, leaving our face feeling hydrated and smooth. Our skin looked brighter and less clogged after washing, and it felt cool, soft, and more open.

The foam and tropical scent won us over, and we appreciated the sufficient bottle size, especially since only one pump was needed for a face wash. We were also pleased with its beneficial properties, like Vitamin C and other superfoods. Although the bottle label mentioned "Body Wash" rather than a face cleanser, it still felt good on our face, so we were a bit skeptical but pleasantly surprised.

It’s Worth Noting

The tropical fragrance could be slightly off-putting for some.

Product Details:

  • Active Ingredients: lychee extract, vitamin B5, allantoin
  • Skin Type: dry, combination
  • Size: 5 oz
Kopari Lychee Clean Vitamin C Foaming Face Cleanser displayed against gray and tan background

Health

Why We Like It

Exfoliating face washes are great for sloughing away dead skin to reveal a brighter, smoother appearance, but they can also be too harsh—which is why we like this gentler alternative by Skinceuticals. This purifying cleanser is known for its effectiveness in cleansing and exfoliating the skin. Its combination of alpha hydroxy acids (AHA), such as glycolic and lactic acids, offers a potent exfoliation that helps to remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and improve overall skin texture, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a rejuvenating exfoliator in their skincare routine.

The consistency of the cleanser was thin and gel-like, and it foamed easily when water was applied to the skin. We found it to be very gentle and pleasant to use. The product lathered well, but we noticed that it required a good amount of water to keep the foam going. The scent was clean and not overly fragranced, almost like the smell of water.

The water-based formula worked exceptionally well for us, providing both hydration and cleansing without feeling heavy on our skin. While it didn't significantly reduce blackheads or brighten our skin, it drew out excess oiliness and left our skin feeling soft and refreshed.

It’s Worth Noting

It may not be the best choice for someone seeking brightening or pore reduction benefits.

Product Details:

  • Active Ingredients: glycerin and glycolic acid
  • Skin Type: dry, oily, combo, normal
  • Size: 6.8 oz
SkinCeuticals Purifying Cleanser With Glycolic Acid displayed on colorful surface

Health

Our Testing Process

To find the best blackhead removal products on the market we gathered a selection of over 40 face scrubs and face wash products to test in the Health lab. We carefully selected a variety to cater to different skin types, whether it’s fighting acne or dry skin, common skin conditions, and ingredient preferences. These face products underwent a comprehensive evaluation, covering cleaning efficacy, ease of use, and post-use skin sensations.

Throughout the testing phase, we assessed each product, considering its feel, effectiveness, and ability to keep the skin hydrated while also taking note of the final appearance. Our evaluations also factored in the overall value of each product. We chose budget-friendly and luxury cleansers, aiming to give you plenty of spending options so you could splurge or save.

The Experts

We consulted with dermatologists to get their professional opinions on what ingredients and formulas are most effective for blackhead removal. We looked for formulas that target blackhead formation, such as those containing powerful acne-fighters like salicylic acid and charcoal. We considered scrubs and masks with exfoliating ingredients that help unclog pores, detoxify the skin, and brighten the complexion.

  • Deanne Mraz Robinson, MD, FAAD, board-certified dermatologist, chief medical officer at Ideal Image, and co-founder of Modern Dermatology in Connecticut

  • Nadir Qazi, DO, board-certified physician, cosmetic dermatology surgeon, and owner of Qazi Cosmetic Clinic Irvine, California

What to Know About Blackhead Removers

Gentle cleansing, exfoliation, and regular use of blackhead removal products can help prevent and reduce the appearance of blackheads. Dr. Robinson advises against using most tools and extractors, such as powered suction devices, as they can cause inflammation and broken blood vessels—essentially causing more damage than good. According to Dr. Robinson, removal is helpful but won't prevent blackhead formation. "The blackhead will likely return without a regular skincare routine targeting sebum, bacteria, and the build-up of dead skin cells."

Still, at-home blackhead removal treatments can be effective, but it's important to use them as directed, as some ingredients can be harsh on the skin. Be sure to read the instructions carefully and start with once or twice a week to see how your skin reacts. If you experience any irritation, discontinue use.

Key Features

When looking for a blackhead remover, consider the following features:

  • Ingredients: The most effective blackhead removal products contain ingredients like salicylic acid, charcoal, sulfur, alpha hydroxy acids, and retinoids.
  • Exfoliation: Scrubs and masks with exfoliating ingredients help slough away dead skin cells, dirt, and oil that can clog pores and lead to blackheads. It's important to use gentle exfoliators to avoid irritating the skin.
  • Skin Type: Most blackhead removal products are suitable for all skin types, but some may be more suitable for specific skin types—such as acne-prone or sensitive skin. Be sure to read the product label to see if a product is right for you.
  • Size: Blackhead removal products come in various sizes, from small tubes to large jars. Choose the size that best suits your needs.
  • Frequency of Use: Some blackhead removal products, such as gentle cleansers, can be used daily as part of your skincare routine. Others, such as ultrasonic devices, should only be used a few times weekly.

Who We Are

Lauren Paige Richeson is an editor at Health, where she plays a crucial role in curating and presenting health-related content. With a strong background in health journalism and a passion for wellness, she engages readers by informing them about important health issues and empowering them to make better lifestyle choices. Through meticulous research and a keen editorial eye, Lauren ensures that the information published is both accurate and accessible.

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