This Is How to Get Rid of Blackheads, Once and for All (2024)

If you have pores—and all of us do—then you’re very likely to have had blackheads at some point in your life. "Blackheads are enlarged pores that are filled with oil and dead skin cells that didn't slough away from the surface," explains Nancy Samolitis, MD, a dermatologist in Los Angeles and owner and cofounder of Facile Dermatology + Boutique. Although you may think that the black in a blackhead is dirt, that’s a common misconception. Your skin isn't dirty. "The black color is actually a result of the clog getting oxidized by the air," says Brian Ginsberg, MD, board certified dermatologist at Chelsea Skin & Laser and clinical assistant professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital.

Your genes and age play a role in how likely you are to get blackheads. “Some people are genetically prone to having larger pores or increased oil production, and both of these are contributing factors for blackheads," says Samolitis. Then, "as we age and the skin loses its elasticity, pores can enlarge and develop blackheads. This can occur on the face or anywhere on the body." So, tiny dark pores on your chest and back just might be blackheads, too. (Although you may also have clogged pores, whiteheads, or acne. When the clogged pore isn't open to the air and hasn't oxidized it'll look more like a small white bump," Samolitis says.)

What’s the best way to get rid of blackheads at home?

"The most effective approach is to fix what’s causing the blackheads, namely dead skin and oil," explains Morgan Rabach, MD, board certified dermatologist and cofounder of LM Medical in New York. "Use active ingredients—ideally retinol—to decrease oil production, slough away dead skin cells, and regulate the growth of skin cells."

Rabach also recommends other exfoliating methods, including exfoliants or peels: "These will slowly remove and then also prevent more blackheads from forming. Look for one containing salicylic acid to dissolve the oil and dead skin cells," she says. "Then also use a retinol to normalize skin cell turnover, which prevents clogging in the first place." You can also do extractions, but note:

To instantly remove blackheads from your face, grab some Q-Tips...

"With blackheads, since the pore is already open, you don't need to use a needle or tool to pierce the skin. Instead, apply gentle pressure around the blackhead to squeeze it out. I prefer using two Q-tips to perform the extractions because they won't damage the skin like squeezing with fingernails or even a comedone extractor can," Samolitis says. They're also clean and won't introduce more oil or grime.

Remember, however, that although squeezing out blackheads is satisfying, it doesn’t change the reason behind their formation, so they will keep coming back if extractions are the only method you use," Rabach says. Continue to incorporate a retinol, exfoliating serum, or weekly peel into your routine.

And to get rid of blackheads on your body, try this

"The skin on your body is thicker than the skin on your face, so it can handle a higher percentage of active ingredients like retinols, salicylic acids, and alpha and beta hydroxy acids to remove the blackheads," says Rabach. You can also ramp up how frequently you exfoliate and apply higher-strength chemical peels.

Know that if products aren't cutting it, a dermatologist can help. "Some blackheads on the back and body can be quite large, causing the pore to be irreversibly damaged," Samolitis says. "Even if you do extract the blackhead, the pore is so large that it will soon fill back up. A dermatologist can do a small surgical excision to close and heal the skin."

Do DIY recipes like toothpaste work?

Forget what you've heard about potentially using toothpaste to dry up your blackheads. On this DIY beauty hack, Samolitis is crystal-clear: "Toothpaste does not work for blackheads." As mentioned above, gentle exfoliants like a serum or peel with salicylic acid is best. Then, if the blackheads truly won't go away, progress to a dermatologist.

Will my blackheads ever permanently go away?

If it seems like you're constantly fighting a losing battle against blackheads, it might not just be your imagination. "Some people are genetically prone to developing blackheads—and they can always come back again," says Samolitis. "Regular use of salicylic acid and retinol can keep them at bay, but often won't clear them completely. Besides talking to your doctor about excisions, you can ask about an oral retinoid like Accutane. This prescription is usually prescribed for severe, cystic acne, however it will shrink oil glands permanently and potentially 'cure' blackheads. Still, this is not recommended for someone with a mild case."

But, overall, if you're following a proper blackhead-tackling skincare regimen, you can start to see long-term relief. "Blackheads can improve dramatically with retinols, salicylic acid, and regular exfoliation," assures Rabach.

What to consider

There are a few things to keep in mind when shopping for a serum, cleanser, or mask that can help with blackheads. The first is price. Depending on your budget, you might want to stick with drugstore finds that can be just as potent as more expensive products. Check out the active ingredients and their percentages; if you struggle with chronic blackheads, you might want to choose a product that has a high concentration of key ingredients like salicylic acid or retinol. Be sure to apply moisturizer to counteract their drying effects.

How we chose

The products listed below are chosen based on the advice given by Dr. Rabach, Dr. Samolitis, and Dr. Ginsberg. They contain the recommended ingredients to help fight blackheads. They are also chosen by editor reviews and first-hand experience.

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