Ever feel like you’re too old for breakouts, yet still waking up to pesky blackheads? Yep, same. I’m in my 40s and blackheads still make regular appearances – especially around my nose. Hormones, stress, and even what you eat (hello, greasy Friday night takeaway) can all mess with your skin, no matter your age. So, let’s break down the best blackhead treatments that are affordable, effective, and easy to do at home – because we deserve skin that glows, not clogs.
What Actually Are Blackheads?
Blackheads, also called open comedones, form when dead skin, oil (aka sebum), and bacteria clog your pores. When exposed to air, that gunk oxidises and turns black. Gross, but true. They usually pop up in oily areas like your nose, chin, and forehead (aka the t-zone). Whiteheads are their closed-off cousins – they’re not exposed to air, so they stay white under the skin.
When to See a Dermatologist
If you’ve tried everything and nothing works, it might be time to call in the pros. A GP can refer you to a dermatologist, who may prescribe a retinoid cream or oral meds to help regulate your skin.
Some mild retinoids are available over the counter. Favourites include:
The Ordinary Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion
The Ordinary Granactive Retinoid 5% In Squalane
Retinoids are slow but powerful – they speed up skin cell turnover and can also help with anti-ageing. Win-win!
Blackhead Treatment Tips That Actually Work
1. Always Clean Your Face Before Bed
Sleeping in your makeup is a crime against your pores. If you’re tired, use micellar cleansing water or pre-moistened wipes as a quick fix.
2. Don’t Squeeze (But If You Do…)
Wash your hands, and cleanse your skin immediately after.
3. Let Your Skin Breathe
Give your skin a makeup-free day whenever you can. If you must wear makeup, go for lightweight, non-comedogenic makeup or skin tints.
4. Get Sweaty (In the Gym or the Bedroom!)
Sweating helps flush your pores naturally. Exercise boosts circulation and gives you that post-workout glow. Plus, getting hot and steamy between the sheets? Also counts!
5. Exfoliate with Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid gently removes dead skin and unclogs pores. Use it two to three times a week, leaving it on for about 10 minutes.
✨We love The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution, it’s affordable and effective ✨
6. Use a Clay Mask Weekly
Clay masks draw out impurities and reduce oil. Just know your skin might purge before it clears up – stick with it!
✨Try Sukin Sensitive Pink Clay Facial Masque ✨
Homemade Blackhead Busters That Really Work
1. DIY Pore Strips
Want to yank those blackheads out at home? Here’s how:
You’ll need:
- 1 tsp unflavoured gelatin
- 1 tsp milk
Mix and microwave for 10 seconds. Apply while warm, let dry, and peel off gently. So satisfying!
2. Natural Blackhead Scrubs
Lemon Sugar Scrub
- 2 tbsp lemon juice + 1 tbsp white sugar
- Gently rub in circular motions, rinse, moisturise
Caution: Lemon makes your skin more sensitive to sunlight.
Oat and Water Paste
- Mix rolled oats with water
- Apply as a mask, let dry, then rinse
Avocado + Honey Moisturiser
- Mash ripe avocado with 1 tbsp honey
- Leave on for 30 mins, rinse off – your skin will feel gorgeous!
3. Blackhead Treatment Masks
Yoghurt & Oats (Normal/Dry Skin)
- 1 tbsp plain yoghurt + 2 tbsp oats
- Apply, wait 10 mins, rinse
Cucumber Grate Mask (All Skin Types)
- Grated cucumber = instant refresh
Egg White & Oats (Oily Skin)
- Whip egg white, mix with oats, apply as a mask
Green Tea Toner
- Brew and chill green tea. Dab on as toner after a mask.
Rice Water Mask
- Save your rice water! Chill it, then apply for 10 mins.
Glycolic Acid: The Ultimate Blackhead Banisher
We swear by these products – most of our team has used them with glowing results (literally). Of course, everyone’s skin is different, so it’s always a good idea to check in with your dermatologist before starting something new.
✨The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution✨
Gentle, soothing and super effective
If blackheads are your nemesis, this cult-fave from The Ordinary deserves a permanent spot in your skincare stash. Here’s why we love it:
- Mild but Mighty Exfoliation
It gently sloughs away dead skin cells, helping to keep pores clear and reduce blackheads without irritating your skin. - Smoother, Brighter Skin
Regular use helps refine skin texture and tone. Say goodbye to bumpy, dull skin and hello to a fresh, radiant glow. - Soothing Ingredients
With Tasmanian pepperberry, aloe vera, and ginseng root, it calms the skin while it works its magic. - Balanced pH for Better Results
The formula sits at a skin-friendly pH of 3.6, which helps the glycolic acid do its job without causing drama (aka redness or flaking).
✨Skinstitut Glycolic Skincare Range✨
The holy grail of gentle daily exfoliation
If you’re ready to level up your blackhead-fighting routine, Skinstitut’s glycolic products are a long-time SAHM favourite. Not only do they help with breakouts, they’re also fantastic for ageing skin.
- Gently exfoliates and improves skin clarity over time
- Helps even out skin tone and texture
- Works beautifully on mature, acne-prone or sensitive skin
With long-term use, your skin will look clearer, smoother and more luminous – yes please!
✨ASAP Daily Exfoliating Facial Scrub✨
For sensitive skin that still needs a deep clean
Is your skin dry, sensitive, or prone to breakouts and blackheads? The ASAP Daily Exfoliating Scrub is your gentle-but-effective go-to. It’s perfect for everyday use and delivers that deep clean feeling without the sting.
- Won’t cause redness or irritation
- Leaves your skin glowing and dewy
- Helps shed dead skin cells for a clearer, brighter complexion
Try it for yourself now!
Some of us are just more prone to blackheads – and that’s okay. With the right routine and products, you can totally keep them under control.
Got a blackhead-busting tip that’s worked for you? We’d love to hear it! Drop your go-to trick in the comments and help a fellow skincare struggler out.
Have your say!