The 12 Best Blackhead Removers of 2024, According to Dermatologists & Byrdie Editors

Best Overall

Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel

$20 at Amazon $20 at Sephora $153 at Dermstore

Benefits: Clears congestion, fights dullness, smoothes | Skin Type: Combination, oily, dry | Size: 30 treatments | Cruelty-Free: Yes

These incredibly popular peel pads are soaked in a dual AHA and BHA exfoliating solution to dissolve dead surface cells and improve the look of skin tone, clarity, and texture. Also included is salicylic acid, which can dissolve oil within a pore, lessening the severity of acne and blackheads. Dermatologist and founder Dr. Dennis Gross told Byrdie that these peel pads are an “effective and easy treatment to target congestion and uneven skin tone without sensitizing the skin, thanks to the unique two-step peel process.” 

With thousands of positive reviews on Sephora, the Alpha Beta Universal Daily is a pretty safe bet for improving blackheads. Associate editorial director Shannon Bauer also adores it, saying “These exfoliating acid pads are gentle enough for daily use but I get great results using them just a few times per week. The two-step system leaves no stinging feeling or redness yet smooths texture and clears pores. I reach for these when I want a ’your skin looks amazing’ day because the two-minute treatments make my skin so glowy and radiant.”

Best Budget

The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% + HA

$10 at Sephora $10 at Ulta $10 at Target

Benefits: Evens skin tone, clears congestion | Skin Type: Dry, combo, oily | Size: 1 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

“Lactic Acid 10% + HA 2% is an exfoliating formula for those who are experienced users of direct acids,” says Prudvi Mohan Kaka, the chief scientific officer at Deciem. “Lactic acid is a type of alpha-hydroxy acid, which are comedolytic and keratolytic in nature. This means that they function to promote exfoliation by loosening the topmost layer of dead skin, helping to even out skin tone and reducing textural irregularities,” he adds. 

There’s also the added benefit of hyaluronic acid, a humectant that increases skin moisture, resulting in a plumper, more supple complexion. We appreciate that the texture is lightweight and it effectively exfoliates the skin, though beware that it can sting a bit when first applied, especially if you have sensitive skin.

Best Drugstore

La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo

$23 at Ulta $36 at Target View on Laroche-posay.us

Benefits: Reduces breakouts, evens skin tone, refines pores | Skin Type: All | Size: 0.6 oz | Cruelty-Free: No

This French pharmacy pick is recommended by dermatologist Dr. Jo-Ann See, MD due to its simple but proven formulation. “Benzoyl peroxide is very helpful when it comes to regulating sebum flow and clearing the pores long term, especially paired with an exfoliating acid,” she says. “You can use this lotion all over the face, but I prefer it as a targeted treatment in congested areas.” In addition to how accessible and effective it is, we also appreciate that it’s suitable for all skin types, even sensitive ones.

Best Brightening

Glossier Solution

$35 at Amazon $30 at Sephora $30 at Glossier.com

Benefits: Fades discoloration, smooths, clears congestion | Skin Type: Combination, oily | Size: 4.4 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

This hard-working liquid exfoliator from Glossier contains a cocktail of exfoliating acids, plus niacinamide, glycerin, and aloe vera to help fade discoloration, soothe, and calm the skin. Dermatologist Shyamalar Gunatheesan, MD tells us that this solution is a great alternative to physical scrubs, but the 10 percent concentration of three acid groups "might be a bit too intense to use regularly," so be sure to start slow and build up use. We appreciate that it includes glycolic acid which helps to improve the appearance of dark spots and help to create an overall brighter complexion. If you're looking for a mess-free product to swipe on quickly and easily layer in your skincare routine, this one is a great place to start.

Best Acne Treatment

Differin Adapalene Gel 0.1%

$15 at Amazon $15 at Ulta $15 at Target

Benefits: Evens skin tone, reduces acne and blackheads | Skin Type: Combination, oily | Size: 0.5 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Gunatheesan tells Byrdie that this treatment from Differin contains adapalene, a “type of retinoid that comes in 0.1% or 0.3% concentration and works to improve skin clarity, luminosity, and reduce pores.” She further explains that adapalene has a more stable chemical structure than other retinoids (like tretinoin) and does not degrade when used alongside other acne treatments like benzoyl peroxide. So if you’re dealing with serious acne, you can use it in conjunction with other active ingredients to reduce breakouts and refine your pores. We also appreciate this formula on its own can help to improve various forms of acne, like whiteheads and raised blemishes, in addition to blackheads.

Best Mask

Peter Thomas Roth Pumpkin Enzyme Mask

$60 at Amazon $60 at Sephora $60 at Ulta

Benefits: Smooths and refines | Skin Type: Dry, oily, combo, balanced | Size: 5 oz | Cruelty-Free: No

Reminiscent of the scent of real pumpkin pie, this popular and deliciously-smelling face mask utilizes the power of pumpkin enzymes (as well as physical exfoliants and AHAs) to remove dead cells and smooth the skin’s surface. This triple exfoliating threat buffs away dry patches and helps to improve the tone and texture of the skin, and we appreciate that just a little bit of the formula goes a long way.

“I’ve been using this mask for at least five years, and it’s one of the very few products that I refuse to be without in my skincare rotation,” says commerce writer Alyssa Kaplan. “I've dealt with enlarged pores on my nose for as long as I can remember, but when I’m diligent about using this mask weekly, they appear less noticeable. I also find that using it consistently helps me to maintain incredibly smooth, soft skin.”

Best Liquid Exfoliator

Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant

$35 at Amazon $35 at Sephora $32 at Dermstore

Benefits: Clarifies, reduces breakouts and blackheads | Skin Type: Combination, oily, dry, balanced | Size: 1, 4 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

You’d be hard-pressed to find a liquid exfoliant with more of a fan club than Paula’s Choice 2% BHA. With promises to sweep away dead skin cells, unclog pores, and visibly smooth wrinkles, the minimalist formula is simple and highly effective. See says that the concentration of salicylic acid is “just right,” and the fact that it doesn't have many other potential irritants means it’s an excellent choice for sensitive or reactive skin.

“I gravitate towards products that are easy to layer in my skincare routine, and this is one of my favorites,” says Kaplan. “I apply the thin, fluid formula to my skin directly after cleansing and before moisturizing, and it applies beautifully. I’ve noticed that when I use it daily, it helps to control my excess oil product and keep my complexion looking radiant.”

Best Clay Mask

Fresh Umbrian Clay Facial Mask

$9 at Amazon $27 at Sephora View on Ulta

Benefits: Refines, reduces appearance of pore size | Skin Type: Combination, oily | Size: 3.3 oz | Cruelty-Free: No

This Umbrian clay mask promises to minimize pores and shine without stripping or dulling the skin. However, Gunatheesan says that it’s best to view this one as a quick fix rather than a long-term skin solution. Why? Because the ingredient profile isn’t really able to permanently clear out the pores. “This is more of a temporary indulgence, and I don’t particularly see a don’t see a long-term benefit,” she explains. “The initial sebum removal might result in rebound sebum overproduction, so just be sure to follow up with lightweight moisture.” If you’re looking for a product to help reduce the appearance of your pores prior to a special event, this is a great option for that.

Best Cleanser

Murad Acne Control Clarifying Cleanser

$36 at Amazon $36 at Sephora $36 at Ulta

Benefits: Cleanses, refines, reduces shine | Skin Type: All | Size: 6.8 oz | Cruelty-Free: No

Cleansing your skin of excess oil and debris is essential in order to maintain a clear complexion. This powerful cleanser is formulated with 1.5% salicylic acid to gently exfoliate and treat breakouts, as well as green tea extract to soothe inflamed skin. Though it’s suitable for all skin types, it can be slightly drying, so we think it’s ideal for those who are prone to excess oil.

“I’ve been using this cleanser for years both on my face and chest to treat and prevent breakouts, and I’ve found it to be extremely effective,” says Kaplan. “It feels nice and cooling on the skin, and it helps to control my greasy T-zone and keep my pores looking minimal.”

Best Cleanser, Runner-Up

Bioderma Sensibio Foaming Gel

$18 at Amazon $17 at Dermstore View on Bioderma.us

Benefits: Cleanses without stripping | Skin Type: Dry, combination | Size: 16.7 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

If you’re looking for a cleanser that’s going to tackle congestion but perhaps doesn’t contain potent active ingredients, like exfoliating acids, See also loves this simple option from Bioderma. “It’s best to avoid moisturizing cleansers that have high levels of paraffin, mineral oil, or fragrant ’natural’ oils because they can block pores, which can lead to acne,” she says. “This product is suitable for congested skin, plus it’s quite conditioning.” Also nice: It uses micelle technology, so it removes makeup, dirt, and oil efficiently. We also appreciate that it’s free from synthetic fragrances.

Best for Sensitive Skin

Rationale #5 The Milk Concentrate

View on Rationale.com

Benefits: Resurfaces, prevents acne-causing bacteria | Skin Type: Dry, sensitive | Size: 1 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

If your skin is sensitive, Gunatheesan recommends this conditioning milk concentrate to exfoliate and resurface sans irritation. “This is perfect for sensitive skin that cannot handle any acids,” she says. “It contains piroctone olamine, which prevents replication of bacteria on the skin’s surface to combat acne, blackheads, and congestion.”

Piroctone olamine is a compound often used in cosmetic products as an antifungal treatment and has been found to help balance the skin microbiome and reduce the incidence of acne-causing bacteria on the skin. Consider this an excellent alternative if you can’t tolerate super potent exfoliants. 

Best for Blemish-Prone Skin

ROSE Ingleton MD Blemish Control Booster Serum

$70 at Rosemdskin.com

Benefits: Clarifies, reduces breakouts and blackheads, fades discoloration | Skin Type: Combination, oily | Size: 1 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

This dermatologist-developed formula contains ingredients that help to prevent new blemishes, like a concentration of AHAs (also great for dissolving excess oil), in addition to antioxidants that help fade discoloration from old spots. It also contains niacinamide to target inflammation and soothe skin. Botanical extracts like green tea, turmeric, and neem extract also bring down inflammation and help soothe redness associated with active blemishes. If you’re looking to target blackheads as well as other types of blemishes, we recommend giving this serum a go.