Dermatologists favor skin care treatments over squeezing blackheads
Experts told NBC Select that picking at blackheads can worsen acne, while ingredients such as salicylic acid and retinoids may help clear pores.
By Tom Brennan · Health & Medicine Correspondent
3 min read
Dermatologists are urging people with blackheads to rely on acne treatments rather than squeezing, picking or using extraction tools at home, according to NBC Select. The guidance matters for people with acne-prone skin because the dark clogged pores that often appear on the nose, chin and forehead can become worse when irritated, experts told the outlet.
NBC Select reported that board-certified dermatologists recommended over-the-counter products with pore-clearing ingredients, including retinoids, salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide. The outlet said those ingredients shaped its list of recommended blackhead treatments for 2026.
What experts say works
Dr. Deborah Spey, a board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group in New Jersey, told NBC Select that salicylic acid can help reduce blackheads and blemishes. Spey cited La Roche Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser as one option because it contains salicylic acid and lipohydroxy acid, another salicylic acid derivative used as an exfoliant.
Dr. Karen Burke, a board-certified dermatologist and faculty member in the Department of Dermatology at Mt. Sinai Icahn School of Medicine, told NBC Select that Differin Acne Treatment Gel can help treat existing blackheads and reduce new pimples. Burke said the over-the-counter retinoid helps regulate skin cell turnover, which can keep pores from becoming clogged.
NBC Select reported that Differin contains 0.1% adapalene, an ingredient its experts recommend for acne treatment. The outlet also noted that retinoid products may irritate some users.
Products highlighted by NBC Select
NBC Select named several products across cleanser, strip, serum, exfoliant, toner and stick categories. The outlet said each included ingredients or formats tied to dermatologist guidance or brand claims about clearing pores and reducing blackheads.
- La Roche Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser: NBC Select said the gel cleanser is designed for oily and acne-prone skin and contains salicylic acid, glycerin and lipohydroxy acid.
- Mighty Patch Nose: NBC Select said the hydrocolloid nose strip can be worn for six to eight hours, and the brand says it removes easily without pain or residue.
- Peace Out AHA Pore & Blackhead Exfoliator Multitasking Treatment Stick: NBC Select said the roll-on stick contains kaolin clay, glycerin, lactic acid, niacinamide and salicylic acid, and the brand says it exfoliates and helps minimize blackheads’ appearance.
- Neutrogena Stubborn Blackheads Daily Acne Facial Serum: NBC Select said the fragrance-free serum is intended as a spot treatment and includes glycolic acid, mandelic acid, polyhydroxy acid and salicylic acid.
- Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant for Clear Skin: NBC Select said experts in its exfoliating guide described the product as helpful for pores, texture and the skin barrier, while reviewers said it helped with blackheads and other acne.
- Mele Refresh Even Tone Facial Tonic: Spey told NBC Select that its lactic acid can help dissolve blackheads and reduce the appearance of enlarged pores, hyperpigmentation and age spots.
What to avoid at home
NBC Select reported that dermatologists do not advise using blackhead extractors at home. Experts also warned that popping or picking at blackheads can make the problem worse.
The outlet’s overall guidance points toward consistent use of acne-focused skin care instead of forceful removal. NBC Select also cautioned that some treatments can be drying or irritating, depending on the formula and the user’s skin.
This story draws on original reporting from NBC News.