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When blackheads seemingly surface overnight, there’s a golden rule to live by: Don’t squeeze your skin. As tempting as it may be, that poking, prodding, and picking can do more harm than good, triggering irritation and harming the skin. Instead, do your skin one better with one of the best blackhead removal tools that safely clear the skin. Blackhead extractors come in all shapes and sizes — there are high-tech devices and pore strips that manually pull out the pore-clogging debris, as well as chemical exfoliants that clear out blackheads with a mix of skin-friendly acids.
Before we get into the details of the best blackhead removal tools, it’s important to understand what blackheads exactly are. “Blackheads are open comedones (AKA pore blockages) that are open to the air,” explains board-certified dermatologist Dr. Angelo Landriscina. “Since they are open to the air, the contents on the surface can become oxidized, leading to their dark color. Closed comedones on the other hand do not undergo oxidation — these are commonly referred to as whiteheads.”
Top Blackhead Removal Tools of 2025
While those with oily and acne-prone skin are the most likely to develop blackheads, all skin types can experience them. “Blackheads are caused when there is a buildup of excess oil (sebum), dead skin cells, and bacteria in the pore,” says Joie Tavernise, celebrity esthetician and founder of JTAV Clinical Skincare. “This can happen due to a number of reasons, including excess oil production, an accumulation of dead skin cells from lack of exfoliation, hormonal changes, predisposition due to genetics, environmental pollutants, and certain cosmetics.”
A majority of skin care professionals, including Dr. Landriscina, recommend using acne spot treatments or acne serums with ingredients like salicylic acid over physical tools to prevent any irritation. That said, there are some tools, like pore vacuums and spatulas, that are safe when used correctly.
Those who decide to go the device route should properly prep their skin to avoid adverse reactions, says Dr. Kiran Mian, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. She suggests steaming your face to soften the skin around the blackheads before going in with a tool. “Once the skin is softened, after about five minutes, you can gently cleanse with a salicylic acid cleanser and lukewarm water. Then you can then go in with your sterilized extractor.”
Over the course of two testing periods spanning 18 months, our editorial team tested over 31 blackhead removal tools for consideration in this piece. Below, discover formulas that passed our testing protocols with flying colors, as well as dermatologist-backed recommendations.
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Editor’s Choice: 3 Best Blackhead Removal Tools
Selecting the best blackhead removal tool will heavily depend on your skin type: Those with dry skin and blackheads will want to steer clear of harsh actives that strip the skin barrier, while oily skin types can benefit from a two-in-one exfoliant that physically and chemically sloughs away pore-clogging residue and debris. Because many blackhead removers do their work with exfoliating acids (like salicylic acid or glycolic acid), sensitivity is also important to keep in mind. Granted, many of us crave the satisfaction of peeling off a pore strip, and there’s options for those types, too. So rather than choosing one best overall product, our editors are highlighting the top three blackhead removal tools for different needs. The below picks reflect our unbiased testing results after two thorough rounds of product reviews.
- Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant: Not only does this facial toner help to erase existing blackheads, but it also prevents future ones from forming when you use it regularly. Beloved for decades by beauty industry insiders, it sloughs away dead skin while stopping buildup in its tracks. Expect smoother, brighter, and softer skin.
- Tweezerman No-Slip Skin Care Tool: We get it: Sometimes you want to physically extract the blackheads yourself. Instead of picking your skin (which risks infection and scarring), cleanse your skin, warm it up with steam to open the pores, then gently sweep this tool’s stainless steel loops over problem areas to push sebaceous filaments up and out of the pores.
- Hero Cosmetics Mighty Patch Face Patch: If you’re looking for an overnight fix, you’ll want to use Hero Cosmetics’ face patches. Our testers were impressed with the staying power of these patches; many alternatives we tried had a tendency to slide off of the skin overnight. For best results, exfoliate your skin before smoothing on the patch. You’ll get the satisfaction of a classic pore strip, and the pack comes with shapes to cover your cheeks and forehead, too.
Editor’s Choice
Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
Product type: Liquid exfoliant
Pros: This can help clear various types of acne, not just blackheads
Cons: The bottle is prone to leaking
One of the best ways to beat blackheads is with regular use of an exfoliating toner. Rather than roughing up your skin, these formulas help dissolve the dead skin cells that trigger blackheads — use it daily, and not only will it clear existing spots, but it will help to prevent future ones from surfacing, too.
This Paula’s Choice exfoliating liquid has attained a cult-like following for the way it smooths out texture, fades dark spots, and remedies blackheads. TikTok and Sephora shoppers wax poetic about how it dramatically changes skin for the better, but they aren’t the only ones who love it. Dr. Mian is also a huge fan. She says that this face exfoliator is an excellent salicylic acid exfoliator that gradually transforms acne-prone, combination, and even dry skin. Make sure not to use it too often to avoid irritating your skin: Patting it onto your face once a week after cleansing is sufficient to reap the benefits.
Editor testing and review notes: “This is the best salicylic acid serum for blackheads I’ve ever tried — hands down. I love incorporating it into my skin care routine two or three times a week to soften my skin and clear out my pores. I have combination skin that errs more dry than oily, and I find that Paula’s Choice BHA toner does an excellent job in removing dullness and dry spots on my cheeks while erasing blackheads on my nose. I’ll typically use it during the evening and follow up with a hydrating face serum; this combination fully rehabs and rebalances my complexion.” — WWD Shop contributing editor Claire Sullivan
Price upon publish date of this article: $35
Editor’s Choice
Hero Cosmetics Mighty Patch Face Patch
Product type: Pimple patches
Pros: The extra-large patches cover all areas of the face
Cons: There’s only one set of patches in the box
Blackheads can appear all over your face — not just on your nose. Unfortunately, most pore strips are only designed for the nose. Mighty Patch Face Patch isn’t like most pore strips, though. Inside the pack you’ll find five de-gunking hydrocolloid patches: One for your forehead, nose, and chin, and two for your cheeks. Gingerly stick them to their designated areas before heading to bed. They’ll draw out blackheads and other pimple residue come morning.
Editor testing and review notes: “Hero Cosmetics makes some of the best pimple patches on the market, and these blackhead remover patches follow suit. Unlike similar options, these have a strong hold on the skin once you adhere them, meaning you can easily go about your chores or doze off for a long night sleep without worrying about them sliding off your skin. I’m always impressed at how quickly they clear my pores, particularly if I use an exfoliating serum before sticking one on.” — Sullivan
Price upon publish date of this article: $17.98
Editor’s Choice
Tweezerman No-Slip Skin Care Tool
Product type: Facial tool
Pros: The textured handle provides a no-slip grip
Cons: This isn’t the best at dislodging small blackheads
If you came to this page looking for a physical tool, Tweezerman’s is your best bet. You’ll be tempted to use it casually on dry skin, but for best results — and to avoid damage to your complexion — you need to thoroughly prep the skin with a deep cleanse and a steam. (No steamer? No problem, just plan on using the tool after a warm shower, which will also help to open the pores). In a pinch, Tavernise also suggests pressing a warm compress to the area before. Then apply as little pressure as possible as you slowly glide the blackhead clearing tool over problem areas to dislodge those sebaceous filaments.
This top blackhead removal tool has two loops on either end — the larger for whiteheads and the smaller for blackheads. Make sure to sanitize the tool as well as your skin after use.
Editor testing and review notes: “As someone prone to discoloration and scarring, I’ve learned that picking at my skin typically only worsens a breakout. This Tweezerman tool is a gentler alternative that I love to keep in my rotation for emergencies, particularly when I notice an uptick in blackheads in hard-to-reach areas, like around my nostrils. With a little skin prep, it’s uncomplicated and effective to use. And you really can’t beat the satisfaction of seeing the blackhead release from the pores.” — Sullivan
Price upon publish date of this article: $11.99
Shani Darden Triple Acid Signature Peel
Product type: Facial mask
Pros: Removes visible blackheads after one use
Cons: May irritate very sensitive skin types
Created by one of Hollywood’s most in-demand estheticians, Shani Darden, two WWD Shop editors swear by this at-home chemical peel as a blackhead remover. The two-step facial starts with an exfoliating gel treatment you paint onto your skin with an included brush. Wait one minute, then follow up with the Kaolin clay mask that neutralizes the gel’s acids and draws debris and dead skin out of the pores. The two-part process masterfully combines some of the best exfoliating ingredients for all skin types and skin concerns. Glycolic acid and two types of clay help to target breakouts and blackheads, lactic acid sloughs skin without dehydrating dry skin types, and mandelic acid boosts overall skin brightness.
Editor testing and review notes: “You should see my skin after I’ve used this face mask: It’s positively glowing. You can feel it working when you apply the first step, then after one minute, a little more intense tingling as you massage on the Kaolin clay mask. I’ll let that sit for 10 minutes, then rinse it off with warm water. My skin always gets a nice flush after I use this mask (not so red that I’m worried about irritation), so I’ll usually follow up with a cooling serum or ice roller for a full at-home spa experience. But the best part is when I wake up the following morning — my pores look tighter, there’s nary a blackhead in sight, and my skin feels and looks impossibly smooth.” — Sullivan
Price upon publish date of this article: $125
Dermaflash Dermapore Ultrasonic Pore Extractor and Skin Care Infuser
Product type: Facial tool
Pros: Multi-tasking design also helps skincare absorb better with the infuse mode
Cons: Not the best at removing deep set blackheads
Tavernise raves about the Dermaflash Pore Extractor because its sensitive skin-friendly two-in-one design clears out pores with minimal pressure and helps serums perform better.
“This esthetician-recommended innovative tool cleans and unclogs pores, and can also be used with your favorite serum to penetrate more deeply,” she says. “Boosted ultrasonic speed and ionic technology easily and painlessly extract dirt, oil, and blackheads, making pores look smaller instantly.”
For removing blackheads, spritz the included Prep Mist all over your face and switch on the extract mode. Then, hold the skin taut and glide the tool along congested areas. Debris will build up on the spatula as blackheads become unlodged. Before switching to the infuse mode, wipe off the tip and apply a hydrating or brightening serum. Slowly swipe the flat edge of the tool all over your face to enhance absorption.
Editor testing and review notes: “I’m usually partial to chemical blackhead removers versus tool, but this one is a great gentle option for folks who want to manually clear out their skin. It has a subtle vibration to it that helps degunk my pores without turning my skin red after use, and the design is ultra-easy to clean between uses.” — Sullivan
Price upon publish date of this article: $109
Differin Acne Treatment Gel
Product type: Retinol gel
Pros: Also smooths and brightens skin tone
Cons: Not safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women; may cause sensitivity
Retinol products are unsung heroes when it comes to removing blackheads. And the gold standard drugstore option for treating clogged pores is, without a doubt, Differin. The blackhead clearing tool targets two main causes of breakouts: clogged pores and inflammation. In addition to that, it also helps to speed up skin cell turnover to reveal a smoother, brighter, and more radiant complexion over time. Those with sensitive skin should start with a pea-size amount once a week, working up to use every other day.
Editor testing and review notes: “When I’m stressed out, my skin follows suit with sporadic breakouts that can last for weeks at a time. Differin is one of the few acne spot treatments that I know I can rely on to lessen the look of pimples and blackheads — although you can dab it directly on a zit, I find that the best results come when I apply a thin layer on my complexion before night cream. My skin is prone to redness, but this formula doesn’t irritate it.” — Sullivan
Price upon publish date of this article: $14.97
Caudalie Instant Detox Masque
Product type: Face mask
Pros: Clears pores in 10 minutes
Cons: May need to be used in tandem with other acne treatments for deep blackheads
French pharmacy favorite Caudalie creates one of our editors’ top picks for the best blackhead removal mask. This is one of those beauty products that you can both feel and see working: About halfway into your 10 minute session, the formula will dry on the skin, creating a sensation where you can almost feel the mask pulling gunk out of your pores. The key ingredient behind that? Pink clay (composed of the kaolin and bentonite varieties) to absorb excess oils. Caffeine helps to boost circulation for a temporary glow, too.
Editor testing and review notes: “This is one of my favorite facial masks to apply when my skin needs a quick refresh before an event or special occasion. The formula lightly resurfaces the skin while going deep into my pores to remove any pesky blackheads that are visible on my nose. Best of all, it doesn’t leave my skin feeling smooth and refreshed, not red and inflamed.” — Sullivan
Price upon publish date of this article: $42
Best Blackhead Remover for Nose
Bioré The Original Deep Cleansing Pore Strips
Product type: Pore strips
Pros: The pack comes with 14 treatments
Cons: They’re only designed to be remove nose blackheads
If you’ve been tempted to try out pore strips after watching a satisfying pore strip removal videos on TikTok, Dr. Landriscina encourages you to pick up these from Bioré. “They use patented C-bond technology which preferentially binds to blackheads and sebaceous filaments when exposed to water,” he says. “When used correctly, they’re able to remove blackheads without damaging surrounding skin.”
The strips will only work on damp skin, so after thoroughly cleansing your face re-wet your nose. Press the strip onto your nose and wait 10 to 15 minutes for it to dry before carefully peeling it off. Then, prepare to be amazed (and maybe a little disgusted) by all of the gunk that comes out.
What testers say: “I have suffered with enlarged pores and blackheads, especially on my nose area, ever since having my son, who is now 5. I have tried multiple products but have not gotten the results I receive from Bioré. They are very easy to apply and peel off! They do not hurt when you peel it off or leave my sensitive skin red/irritated. I could see all it pulled out on the pad and it was very satisfying! Finally a bump free nose!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $8.99
Best Blackhead Remover Vacuum
Beautybio Glofacial Pore Cleansing Tool
Product type: Facial tool
Pros: It replicates the effects of a highly sought-after professional treatment
Cons: It won’t operate correctly if it doesn’t stay upright
This Glofacial Pore Cleansing Tool from Beautybio is the closest thing to an at-home Hydrafacial. The device siphons out dirt, oil, grime, makeup, and blackheads (which you can see in the chamber after you’re done), while simultaneously infusing the skin with a salicylic acid and hyaluronic acid concentrate. Why these two ingredients, you ask? Salicylic acid unclogs pores and gently exfoliates to prevent future breakouts, and hyaluronic acid plumps the skin and helps it retain moisture, enhancing the all-over glow post-treatment.
Before turning it on, fill the left chamber with a mixture of water and the included concentrate, then slowly swipe it along your face and areas of congestion.
Editor testing and review notes: “I’ve tested out this Beautybio facial kit during the holiday season when I wanted a radiant skin look, quick: I’ve had professional Hydrafcials before and always love the glowing, clean-feeling results post-facial. This set makes it easy to DIY a similar treatment at home with its solution and dual-chambered device. It can be hard to use around narrow contours of the face (near the nose), but it’s genius for clearing out pores on the forehead, chin, and cheeks.” — Sullivan
Price upon publish date of this article: $149.25
best blackhead remover mask
Peace Out AHA Pore & Blackhead Exfoliator Multitasking Treatment Stick
Product type: Exfoliating mask
Pros: Stick format is travel friendly and allows for a mess-free application
Cons: May be too harsh for dry and sensitive skin
Dr. Mian emphasizes the importance of removing blackheads gently to prevent damaging the skin barrier. She recommends using products with chemical exfoliants, particularly salicylic acid.
“Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid that is a small enough molecule to go into your pores and clean them out in a way that does not trigger inflammation,” she says.
This handy stick from Peace Out contains salicylic acid — along with a blend of AHAs, kaolin clay, and mushroom extract — to expel deep blackheads. Swipe the fast-acting scrubby mask along problem areas, like the T-zone, and leave it on for 10 minutes before rinsing. The cleansing, exfoliating, and nourishing formula refines the look of pores, mattifies skin, and helps prevent future breakouts.
What testers say: “I’ve tried everything for the blackheads on my nose down to mixing raw apple cider vinegar with Moroccan clay powder as a mask (works well btw) so I went out on a limb trying this one. It’s much easier and quicker, and it’s perfect for travel. I have shallow but wide pores on my nose, a prime spot for unsatisfying blackheads. This not only cleaned them out but my pores look smaller after.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $24
Best Dermatologist-Recommended Blackhead Remover
Neutrogena Stubborn Texture Daily Acne Facial Cleanser
Product type: Face cleanser
Pros: The dermatologist-recommended cleanser can be used daily
Cons: It can potentially cause irritation when used in tandem with other acne products
“I like salicylic acid cleansers as a blackhead remedy since they tend to be less irritating than leave-on exfoliants,” says Dr. Landriscina. “A favorite of mine is Neutrogena’s Stubborn Texture Cleanser.”
Specially formulated to even out rough texture and diminish acne, this face wash for oily skin combines a gentle yet powerful mix of 1 percent salicylic acid with 2 percent glycolic acid and polyhydroxy acid. Washing with this can reduce persistent blemishes and leave acne-prone skin soft and clear.
What testers say: “I use it a few times a week and I have very oily skin. My mom uses it like once a week. It has helped both of us a lot. Definitely, you need to use a moisturizer if you are going to use this. We have also found it useful on our body acne.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $12.97
- Pore strips: Similar to pimple patches, adhesive pore strips stick to the skin and manually pull out superficial blackheads (ones that are close to the surface) and other debris from pores. They’re typically made for the nose and chin areas, and all skin types can use them. “While it may be satisfying to see congestion on the pore strip after you pull it off, it is not a long-term solution to clearing blackheads,” says Tavernise. For best results, use these as one step in your acne-fighting arsenal, as leave-on serums like retinol products will deliver long-term results versus this band-aid fix. Note that some pore strips may cause minor irritation and redness once removed, although that typically subsides quickly.
- Exfoliating face masks: Exfoliating face masks utilize chemical exfoliation and/or a mix of physical exfoliation to unclog pores and remove all traces of blackheads. “Exfoliating masks remove dead skin cells and aid in cell turnover, so they are great for those with dull skin and can help to brighten and revive the complexion,” says Tavernise. All skin types can benefit from using a face mask or sheet mask weekly, although it’s important to find ones that are suited for your specific skin type, because those made for oily and acne-prone skin can be too intense for dry and sensitive skin. If you have dry or sensitive skin, it’s best to avoid masks formulated with BHAs (like salicylic acid).
- Exfoliating cleansers: Blackhead removal isn’t the easiest task, especially for those with sensitive, reactive skin. If you fall into that category, Dr. Landriscina recommends exfoliating cleansers formulated with salicylic acid because they tend to be less irritating than leave-on exfoliants. These types of blackhead removers are generally gentle enough to use daily, although it’s important to restore the moisture barrier with a face cream after use to prevent dryness.
- Facial tools: There’s a lot of debate amongst professionals about at-home extracting tools. For the most part, our experts strongly advised against using most tools (especially tweezers) to pull out blackheads. If you’re set on using a facial tool, Tavernise suggests pore vacuums, which suck out gunk from deep inside pores. Keep in mind that these types of tools are only suitable for certain skin types. “Those with oily skin or combination skin with congestion in the T-zone and those with acne-prone skin can benefit from using a pore vacuum,” she says. “Those with aging or mature skin, as well as those with sensitive skin should avoid using this tool.” If you opt for a pore vacuum, Dr. Mian urges you to use it sparingly because “excess pulling on the skin will lead to sagging or drooping over time.”
How to Use Blackhead Remover Tools and Extractors Safely
If you decide to use a blackhead extracting tool over a facial exfoliator, you’ll need to use extra caution, as improper technique and unhygienic tools can worsen blackheads and seriously harm the skin. Follow the below steps to ensure you have the safest at-home extracting experience.
- Cleanse the skin: There’s quite a bit of prep work that goes into safely and efficiently removing blackheads. Before even picking up the tool, Tavernise recommends thoroughly cleansing your skin then applying a warm compress to the area that needs to be extracted. This loosens what’s inside your pores and draws excess oil to the skin’s surface. Immediately prior to extracting, be sure to also wash your hands and sanitize the tool with rubbing alcohol.
- Use your preferred blackhead extractor: Follow the below tips for different types of tools.
- For pore vacuums: Starting with the lowest suction setting, glide the device along the affected area. Don’t go over a section more than once to avoid skin irritation or breaking the surface of the skin.
- For pore spatulas: Dampen your face before turning on the device. Most pore spatulas will only work if the skin is moist. Hold skin taut and glide the tool along congested areas. The vibrating motions unclogs blackheads and debris and deposits them on the edge of the spatula. Wipe clean once done.
- For dual-ended extractors: “Typically, blackhead extractor tools have two ends with one small loop and one larger loop. Choose which end you are going to use based on the size of the blackhead that you are extracting,” explains Tavernise. “Next, position the loop of the tool over the blackhead and gently apply even pressure, making sure that the loop completely surrounds the blackhead. While applying gentle pressure, roll the tool slightly from side to side to work the blackhead up and out of the skin.”
- Sanitize: After using your blackhead extracting tool of choice, clean it with a paper towel soaked in rubbing alcohol. Tavernise recommends following this quick post-extracting skin routine to ward off irritation: “Cleanse your skin and use a gentle toner to remove any bacteria and soothe your skin. Finish by applying a calming or hydrating non-comedogenic serum and moisturizer.”
How We Chose the Best Blackhead Removal Tools
Since 1910, WWD — often referred to as “the fashion bible” — has been the leading industry voice of authority for senior executives in the global women’s and men’s fashion, retail and beauty communities, while also informing the consumer media that cover the market. Today, WWD’s breaking news and trend coverage continues to be a trustworthy resource for both fashion insiders and consumers alike. Our shopping editors continue to uphold WWD’s editorial standards and values with quality, expert-backed product selections.
In order to curate a list of safe and effective blackhead removal tools, we conducted extensive market research on the top-rated products and bestsellers across retailers like Sephora, Ulta, and Amazon, and carefully read through hundreds of customer reviews. Additionally, we interviewed experts to learn more about blackheads and discover what types of tools and formulations are suitable for at-home use. Then, we set out to test the products ourselves. A panel of WWD Shop beauty testers evaluated a total of 31 blackhead removal tools that range from face masks to physical skin care tools to pimple patches. Each item was evaluated on a set list of criteria that includes ease of use, how it performs on different skin types, and how effective it was at removing blackheads. Our curated list of top blackhead removers is a combination of expert recommendations, highly-rated devices, and items we personally tested. Learn more about us here.
Meet the Experts
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Dr. Angelo Landriscina is a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. He shares his extensive skin knowledge on TikTok and Instagram where his penchant for mixing sound, evidence-based skincare advice with irreverent humor has garnered him the nickname “skinfather” among his over 700,000 followers online.
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Joie Tavernise is a New York-based celebrity esthetician with over 20 years of experience. She is the founder of JTAV Clinical Skincare, a skincare line and studio located on Manhattan’s Upper East Side. Her philosophy emphasizes a “less-is-more” approach, combining non-invasive procedures with overlooked traditional techniques. With a focus on skin health as the foundation of beauty, all services begin with a meticulous extraction.
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Dr. Kiran Mian is a board-certified dermatologist at Hudson Dermatology & Laser Surgery in New York City. She specializes in all things hair, skin, and nails. With a passion for total body wellness and science over trends, she expertly manages medical skin conditions with a holistic approach to educate her patients and improve their overall quality of life.
Meet the Authors
Mary Honkus is a freelance beauty writer with over five years of experience researching, testing, and writing about skincare, makeup, and hair care. She has held on-staff positions at InStyle, People, and Real Simple, and her bylines can be found in numerous other publications including Cosmopolitan and Us Weekly. She currently resides in New York City, where she frequently tests skin care products and tools for acne-prone skin types.
Claire Sullivan is the Senior Beauty and Lifestyle Commerce Editor for Footwear News and WWD, where she writes and edits beauty, fashion and lifestyle stories. She has over eight years of experience as a writer and editor for national media outlets including Martha Stewart Living, Martha Stewart Weddings, InStyle, and Byrdie. She keeps her finger on the pulse of all things related to beauty and wellness, as well as the latest shopping trends and clothing brands. Sullivan contributed to the May 2025 update to this article on top blackhead removers after an additional round of product testing.