The Best and Easiest Ways To Get Rid of Blackheads and Whiteheads - Plus, Products To Consider! | Daily Vanity Singapore (2025)

Blackheads and whiteheads, those unwelcome guests on your nose, can be a real nuisance. Though they’re a common skin concern, their stubborn presence often leaves us feeling frustrated and self-conscious.

These tiny blemishes, caused by clogged pores, can seemingly appear out of nowhere, affecting individuals of all ages and skin types.

Thankfully, there are effective ways to remove and prevent them. Read on for more details.

What Are Blackheads and Whiteheads?

Blackheads and whiteheads are common skin blemishes caused by clogged pores. Blackheads, or open comedones, appear as small, dark spots on the skin’s surface due to oxidation.

Whiteheads, or closed comedones, are similar but covered by a thin layer of skin, maintaining a white or flesh-coloured appearance.

What Causes Blackheads or Whiteheads?

Blackheads and whiteheads are caused when sebaceous glands/hair follicles become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria.

Blackheads form when the clog is exposed to air and turns black, while whiteheads remain white or flesh-coloured when the pore is closed.

Various factors, such as hormonal changes, genetics, medications, and skincare products, can contribute to the development of these blemishes. Environmental factors, such as pollution and humidity, can also worsen their appearance.

Although blackheads and whiteheads are not harmful on their own, they can cause inflammation and more severe acne if not properly treated. Additionally, they can have a negative impact on self-esteem.

Establishing a good skincare routine and seeking appropriate treatment can help prevent and manage these skin issues effectively.

Effective Blackheads and Whiteheads Removal Tips

While it’s tempting to squeeze those pesky spots, resist the urge! This can worsen inflammation and lead to scarring. Here are a few safe and effective removal strategies:

Keep Your Skin Clean

Regular cleansing is essential to remove dirt, oil, and dead skin cells that can clog pores and lead to blackheads and whiteheads. Use a gentle cleanser suitable for your skin type, and avoid harsh scrubbing, which can irritate the skin and exacerbate the problem.

Exfoliate Regularly

Exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells and prevent pores from becoming blocked. Opt for a gentle exfoliant containing ingredients like salicylic acid or glycolic acid, which can penetrate the pores and dissolve excess oil and debris.

Use Topical Treatments

Over-the-counter topical treatments containing ingredients like benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or retinoids can help unclog pores and reduce the appearance of blackheads and whiteheads. Apply them as directed, and be patient as results may take time to appear.

Try Blackhead Extractors

Comedone extractors are small tools designed to safely remove blackheads and whiteheads without causing damage to the skin. Use them after cleansing and steaming your face to soften the skin and open up pores.

Gently press the extractor around the affected area to remove the buildup.

Consider Professional Treatments

If blackheads and whiteheads persist despite your best efforts, consider seeking professional help.

Dermatologists can offer treatments such as chemical peels, microdermabrasion, or extractions to effectively remove stubborn comedones and improve the overall appearance of your skin.

How To Not Get Blackheads and Whiteheads: Prevention Tips

1. Keep Your Hands Off: Touching your face can transfer bacteria and oils from your hands to your skin, exacerbating blackheads and whiteheads. Avoid picking, squeezing, or popping them, as this can lead to inflammation, scarring, and further breakouts.
2. Choose Non-Comedogenic Products: Opt for skincare and makeup products labelled as non-comedogenic, meaning they are formulated to not clog pores. Look for lightweight, oil-free formulas that won’t exacerbate existing comedones.
3. Moisturise Regularly: While it may seem counterintuitive, moisturising is essential, even if you have oily or acne-prone skin. Choose a non-comedogenic, oil-free moisturiser to keep your skin hydrated without clogging pores.
4. Protect Your Skin from the Sun: Sun exposure can worsen existing blackheads and whiteheads and increase the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher daily, even on cloudy days, and reapply every two hours when outdoors.

Skincare Products To Effectively Prevent Blackheads and Whiteheads

Dealing with blackheads and whiteheads can be frustrating, but with the right approach, you can effectively remove them and prevent future breakouts. With the use of proper skincare products, you can prevent blackheads and whiteheads.

Here are some recommended products to help you tackle these issues effectively.

Mario Badescu Silver Powder

The Silver Powder boasts an incredible formula that effectively unclogs pores, minimises blackheads, and enhances the overall health of your complexion.

Its powerful combination of titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, natural astringents, effectively clears and tightens your pores. Mix this powder with water to create a paste that will eliminate stubborn blackheads in just 10 minutes.

After cleansing, your skin will feel noticeably smoother and refined, with no visible signs of blackheads.

Get this for S$26 from Sephora.

Sephora Collection Blackhead Peel-Off Mask – Unclog & Purify

Apply this blackhead peel-off mask to your T-zone, the area around your forehead, nose, and chin, to tackle those pesky blackheads. It’s made mostly from natural stuff and doesn’t have any scent. This mask works by shrinking your pores and reducing the number of blackheads you see.

Even after just one use, it makes your skin feel smoother and look better. You leave it on for 20 minutes, then peel it off easily. If you want clearer and smoother skin, you gotta try this peel-off mask.

Get this for S$20 from Sephora.

Sephora Collection Charcoal Nose Strip

100% made of charcoal fibre, this nose strip helps to eliminate impurities and blackheads in just one go. It’s specifically designed to target those hard-to-reach areas and reduce impurities, excess oil, and blackheads trapped in your pores.

Crafted from natural bamboo-derived charcoal fibres, it’s packed with minerals and known for its purifying prowess.

Get this for S$5 (1 strip) from Sephora.

Malin + Goetz Detox Face Mask

This 5-minute mask by Malin + Goetz is like a quick refresh for your skin. It clears out dirt and excess oil, leaving your face feeling super clean and hydrated. Plus, it gives you a nice glow by smoothing out your skin and brightening it up.

Get this for S$82 from Sephora.

Fenty Skin Cookies N Clean Whipped Clay Intensive Pore + Blackhead Face Scrub

The charcoal and volcanic sand in this scrub team up to effectively remove blackheads and purify your pores. With a whipped clay texture, it gently exfoliates your skin, leaving it smooth and soft. Plus, it contains salicylic acid to help clear out pores and minimise their appearance.

And the best part? It’s fragrance-free and suitable for all skin types, even sensitive ones!

Get this for S$48 from Sephora.

Dermalogica Clear Start Blackhead Clearing Fizz Mask

This unique fizzing formula in the Dermalogica Clear Start Blackhead Clearing Fizz Mask works wonders for your skin. It effectively cleans pores and targets blackheads, leaving your skin feeling incredibly clean and smooth.

As it fizzes, sulphur and kaolin clay get to work, absorbing excess oil that can lead to breakouts. So, not only does it feel refreshing, but it also helps prevent future breakouts, giving you clearer, healthier-looking skin.

Get this for S$43 from Sephora.

Kiehl’s Rare Earth Deep Pore Clay Face Mask

A pore-minimising face mask that’s made with Fairly Traded Amazonian White Clay, sourced responsibly from communities near the Amazon River.

This clay mask from Kiehl’s is designed to detoxify and purify your skin, drawing out impurities and reducing excess oil. It also helps to visibly refine pores, leaving your skin feeling smoother and looking clearer.

Get this for S$64 from Kiehl’s.

Paula’s Choice Antioxidant Pore Purifier

Use this antioxidant purifier from Paula’s Choice twice a day for clear, radiant skin. It’s formulated to effectively clear pores of daily debris and pollution while brightening your complexion with a blend of antioxidants, salicylic acid, and other skin-strengthening ingredients.

Not only does it help protect your skin from environmental damage, but it also targets blackheads, clogged pores, dullness, and enlarged pores. Plus, its ultra-lightweight fluid texture makes it easy to apply and absorb into your skin.

Get this for S$55 from Paula’s Choice.

The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution

Salicylic acid is great to treat whiteheads and other signs of congestion, making The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution an ideal serum for blemish-prone skin.

This water-based serum contains just the right amount of salicylic acid to target textural irregularities and remove dead skin cells that might clog pores.

By promoting exfoliation, it visibly reduces congestion, revealing brighter and clearer skin. Perfect for those dealing with blemishes, this solution is tailored to effectively address their skincare concerns.

Get this for S$14 from Sephora.

Guardian Blackhead Extractor

Instead of using your nails to pick at your blackheads or whiteheads, use this stainless steel blackhead extractor instead. Unlike your nails, it doesn’t harbour germs, and its precision-finished design helps you extract unwanted blackheads with ease.

This tool is made to be gentle on your skin while effectively removing blackheads, giving you a clearer complexion without the risk of spreading bacteria.

Get this for S$5 from Guardian.