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12 Best Blackhead Removal Tools and How to Use Them
without Damaging Your Skin
If y ou 'r e go nn a do i t, h er e' s th e sa fe st w ay .
b y S I E N A G A G L I A N O D E C 3 1 , 2 0 2 1
S
o you want smooth, poreless skin sans blackheads, eh? Maybe you've been
searchin' the web for the best blackhead removal tools to clear out those clogged
pores because they never seem to disappear. Or frankly, you're just so f*cking
over acne, you're willing to try anything—even if that means poking and prodding until
your skin is inamed and red. Which, like, I feel you, and that's why I hate to be the one
to tell you this, but there's no such thing as a poreless face. All skin has texture, and
KHADIJA HORTON
to some extent, everyone has blackheads—oh, and picking at them can make the sitch
worse!
Yep, feel free to take a minute. It's A LOT. But there's nothing wrong with acne, texture,
or pores, and they happen to be a totally natural part of life. That said, it's completely
understandable why you may want to clear up your skin—starting with those pesky
black dots on your face. So that's why when a ton of blackhead removal tools—like pore
vacuums and the latest fad, the ultrasonic skin scrubber—went viral on social media, I
wasn't surprised (I too have tried some pretty weird sh*t to clear my skin). But because
I've learned from my past of overdoing it on the DIY acne treatments, I was skeptical, to
say the least.
Ultimately, I questioned the effectiveness of these blackhead removal tools, and most
importantly, their safety. And because I wanted answers and my blackheads gone FAST, I
went straight to the peeps that know best: dermatologists. Below, a few skin experts
sound off on everything you need to know about blackhead removal tools and the best
ones.
Do blackhead removal tools really work?
Quick refresh: A blackhead is a form of acne that develops when pores ll up with
oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria, explains Dr. Rachel Maiman, board-certied
dermatologist at Marmur Medical. "When exposed to air, keratin—the primary protein of
which your skin cells are made—becomes oxidized, turning it black," she says, hence
why it's called a blackhead. (Think: a dark wax "plug" clogging your pore.)
As to whether blackhead removal tools work, it depends on the desired outcome you're
looking for, and what tool you're referring to (considering there are so many).
"Blackhead removal tools are quite variable in their efficacy," says Dr. Maiman. To some
degree, yes, most of the at-home tools will work...slightly. But other than clearing a bit of
gunk out of the opening of your pores (and OFC, it being a little satisfying) or extracting
a singular blackhead that's been around for a while, as Dr. Maiman explains, these tools
are a short-term x and not a long-term solution. Despite your best efforts, the
pores will eventually ll back up again. Sorry! No quick xes here!
But don't fret and lose alllll hope. In fact, if you *really* want to clear out those suckers,
the key is to do so over time and with ingredients that work. Chemical exfoliants and
retinoids are the best way to treat blackheads, hands down. Remember it, think about
it, say it, and don't forget it—because if you want a long-term solution, I'd add one to
your skincare routine ASAP.
Are blackhead removal tools safe?
Whenever a breakout appears to be ripe for the picking, well, we pick (and pick and
pick) until (a) it's gone, or (b) we're left with a bigger mess, or even worse, an acne scar.
Which, awesome if it disappears, but if left to our own acne removal devices, it can easily
end up being the latter—no fun. As always, "any form of manipulation to the skin
should be done by professionals who are trained to address potential
complications," says Dr. Maiman. It is also important to note that those with dark
melanin-rich skin should use particular caution, as the skin is more prone to
hyperpigmentation, she explains.
There is some good news, though: Dr. Mona Gohara, board-certied dermatologist and
associate clinical professor at Yale, explains that if done correctly and with caution,
blackhead removal tools can be a very effective way to clear some of those pesky,
stubborn blackheads that don't seem to go away (i.e., the dark, more obvious ones
that have been on your face for days, weeks, or even months). Beforehand, "ensure that
you consult your dermatologist to conrm that this is the right approach for you," says
Gohara.
So, if you choose to use them—after acknowledging the risks and with caution—there
are a few important tips you should keep in mind to make sure you're using 'em correctly
and as safely as possible:
Clean hands, skin, and a properly sanitized tool are a must. Remember to clean
tools and devices before and after each use. (For stainless steel tools, rubbing
⬥
alcohol will do the trick.)
Steam your face beforehand. Dr. Maiman suggests gently steaming the skin to
loosen debris for a better extraction and less trauma. This can be done with a
warm, damp towel, a warm shower beforehand, or if you really wanna get
~fancy~, a facial steamer.
Go light on the pressure. Less pressure means less trauma; less trauma means
less damage to your skin.
If it's not budging, STOP! And above all, if the blackhead is not easily
releasing, that's your sign to call it a day and leave it up to the pros. If you
continue extraction at this point, you can easily damage your skin or cause
scarring.
The best blackhead removal tools:
So if you're ready to take those pesky black dots on, these are the 12 best blackhead
removal tools—from comedone extractors to ultrasonic skin spatulas—that'll help you
remove gunk from your pores.
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⬥
⬥
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1
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Utopia Care Professional Comedone Remover
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According to Dr. Maiman,the "gold standard" of blackhead removal toolsis a
stainless steel comedone extractor. The best part? They are safe to use on sensitive skin
and will only cost you a few bucks. Place the blackhead in the middle of the extractor
"loop" and gently push on the skin while slowly dragging the tool across the area. If the
blackhead releases with ease, there ya go! If not, that's your indication to let it be and
seek a pro.
2
B E S T C O M E D O N E E X T R A C T O R W I T H E X F O L I A T I O N
Tweezerman Clear Complexion Facial Tool
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A similar comedone extractor as above is this cute lil' pink tool by Tweezerman. The key
difference between this and the rst is that instead of two "loops," there is a beveled at
tip for exfoliation. Beforehand, use the exfoliation end to gently scrape away visible dry
skin from areas prone to blackheads, using an up and down stroking motion. Once done,
use the comedone extractor side, following the previous directions on thosepesky guys!
3
B E S T C O M E D O N E E X T R A C T O R T W E E Z E R S
Fixbody Blackhead and Splinter Remover Tools
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$ 8 A T A M A Z O N
Another variation of the comedone extractor is this tweezer and pointed tip tool duo.
Before extracting, Dr.Maiman explains that the sharp tip is used to "gently puncture the
pore to dislodge the contents and make for easier extraction." Remember to do so
with caution and gentlypoke only the blackhead itself(!!) If the blackhead is almost
out, yet is being a little fussy, the rounded tweezers will help to pull it out the rest of the
way.
4
B E S T B L A C K H E A D R E M O V A L T O O L K I T
JPNK Blackhead Extractor Removal Kit
NOW 33% OFF
$ 1 0 A T A M A Z O N
If you're unsure which comedone extractor to go with, this set comes with six different
tools that'll take the guesswork out. Each tool is equipped with astainless steel non-
slip gripto ensure that you've got a good hold during extractions. Remember to clean
each tool thoroughly with alcohol before placing them back into the included leather
case (!!)
5
B E S T P O R E V A C U U M B L A C K H E A D R E M O V A L T O O L
PMD Personal Microderm PRO
$ 1 9 9 A T D E R M S T O R E
If you haven't seen a pore vacuum on TikTok recently, WYD?! The viral blackhead
removal tool uses a "vacuum suction" to do just that—suction gunk out of your pores.
Place it on an area of your skin with congested pores and begin on the lowest setting,
explains Dr. Maiman.Before you invest in one, check out our pore vacuum facial
reviewfor everything you need to know about 'em and if they really work.
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6
B E S T S K I N S P A T U L A B L A C K H E A D R E M O V A L T O O L
Dermaflash Dermapore Ultrasonic Pore Extractor & Serum Infuser
$ 9 9 A T S E P H O R A
Ahhh, another viral blackhead removal tool—andarguably the latest—is the ultrasonic
skin spatula. Dr. Maiman explains that this is a water-based exfoliation device,so the
skin must begin and staywet throughout the process. "Using gentle pressure, push the
device along the skin in an upward and/or outwardmotion. The slower you go, the
deeper and more effective the ultrasonic waves will be," she says. Bonus: this blackhead
removal tool by Dermaash also infuses serum into your skin...a two-for-one deal!
7
B E S T G E N T L E B L A C K H E A D E X F O L I A T I O N T O O L
Dehiya Beauty Mihakka Exfoliation Tool
$ 1 8 A T
D E H I Y A B E A U T Y . C O M
If you're not ready to go all out on the high-tech gadget tools or wanna leave the
comedone extractors to the pros, consider purchasing thistraditional Moroccan
exfoliating tool. It may not remove individual blackheads, but it will gently exfoliate the
skin to loosen up debris in the pores and leave your skin feeling oh-so-smooth. Pair it
with your favoritecleansing balmfor the ultimate experience. FYI, I'm personally
obsessed with this!
8
B E S T P U L S A T I N G B L A C K H E A D E X F O L I A T I O N T O O L
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Foreo LUNA Mini 3
$ 1 5 9 A T S E P H O R A
On the other hand, if you err on the side of caution but still want a high-tech modern
tool, the Foreo Luna Mini 3 is a gentle, pulsating exfoliator that works to remove dead
skin and oil, you know,everything that makes up a blackhead. Because of how gentle
the device is, you can use it up to two times per day. Pro tip: Use a salicylic acid cleanser
with it for a long-term blackhead treatment.
9
B E S T P O R E B L A C K H E A D R E M O V A L S T R I P S
TonyMoly Egg Pore Nose Pack
$ 7 A T R E V O L V E
I'll give it to ya, pore strips are satisfying as hell. But in the much-debated pore strip
world, there's always that question:Do pore strips really work?!Well, don't you worry,
we broke down everything you need to know about pore strips and how to use 'em, so
check that out for an in-depth tutorial. These strips are rich in charcoal andacetic acid
from eggshells. If you don't know what acetic acid does, DW, you're not alone. Acetic
acid helps to clear topical bacteria. Which, as we learned earlier, is the main component
of those fun little blackheads of yours.
10
B E S T L I G H T T H E R A P Y B L A C K H E A D R E M O V A L T O O L
Foreo Espada Blue Light Acne Treatment
$ 1 4 9 A T D E R M S T O R E
If you want agentler, non-invasive blackhead removing tool, consider a bluelight
therapy acne treatment. Blue light has an antimicrobial effect when targeted at the skin
—this means it will kill acne-causing bacteria that get clogged in your pores. Don't
expect results overnight though, this treatment is denitely one you'll see working
overtime. Remember, protect your eyes while using it!!
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11
B E S T B L A C K H E A D E X F O L I A T I N G S T I C K
TonyMoly Tako Blackhead Scrub Stick
$ 1 3 A T R E V O L V E
This cute bb isn't exactly a blackhead removal tool, per se, but it is effective at
removingblackheads! Cellulose beads and black mud balm work together to remove
excess sebum and gently exfoliate the pores. If you have sensitive skin, be wary of
exfoliation products because they can dry out and irritateyour skin with too much use.
Stick to three to four times per week with this adorable little guy.
12
B E S T F A C I A L S T E A M E R F O R B L A C K H E A D R E M O V A L
Vanity Planet Senia Hot & Cold Smart Facial Steamer
Snail Slime Is the Key to Moisturized
Skin (Srsly)
28 Black-Owned Skincare Brands You
Need To Try
M O R E F R O M
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t r e a t m e n t s a n d p r o d u c t s
$ 8 5 A T N O R D S T R O M
If you really wanna get fancy-schmancy, instead of a warm towel or shower, you could
invest in a facial steamer. This, as we mentioned before,is a good idea to do beforehand
in order toloosen debris for a better extraction and less trauma. This one by Vanity
Planet is my fave, considering it has a hot AND cold setting. But if you want even more
options and all ofyour facial steamer questions answered, don't you worry,we have a
guide for that too.
SIENA GAGLIANO
As one of Cosmo’s Digital Associate Editors, Siena contributes across all beats on the digital site with a special love for beauty and fashion.
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