7 Editor-Approved Cleansers for Blackheads

We all know the pains of blackheads popping up on our noses and cheeks. Blackheads are exceedingly common—and irksome. How do you get rid of them?

Not by squeezing them out, that’s for sure. Getting rid of blackheads — for good — is a process that requires the right products (hello, salicylic acid), a regular skincare routine, and sometimes even the help of pros. Ahead, we’ve got the most effective cleansers for the pesky problem.

First things first, what exactly are blackheads?

Before you go about trying to get rid of blackheads, it helps to first understand what they actually are. Blackheads honestly have nothing to do with trapped dirt or the cleanliness of the skin; they are just pores plugged with dead skin cells and sebum. These dead skin cells react with oxygen in the air and turn black, which forms a blackhead.

So, how can I get rid of them?

Stick to a skincare regime that works for you, and remember to regularly exfoliate with products that include acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid, glycolic acid, witch hazel, clay, and charcoal. This will slough off dead skin and clear your pores of all the gunk.

You can also invest in a facial cleansing device since cleansing with a mechanical face brush can help fight against blackheads—not only because it’s a charged-up way to exfoliate, but also because the deep cleanse allows active ingredients to better penetrate into your skin.