How to get rid of blackheads on the nose, according to dermatologists

Have you ever noticed small blackheads on your skin? You've probably seen them appear on or around your nose, and you may be more prone to them if you have oily or acne-prone skin. These little black dots are called comedonesand while they don't pose a real threat to your skin, they can be very frustrating to deal with. To find out how to get rid of blackheads on nose, we consulted two certified dermatologists. Keep reading to find out their tips on blackhead removal at home (Hint: popping not recommended!). 

What are blackheads?

Blackheads are small black dots on the skin caused by a buildup of sebum, dirt, and dead skin cells into your pores. When they are exposed to air, they oxidize, giving them a dark hue. 

Why do I have so many blackheads on my nose?

The reason you may notice more blackheads on your nose than on your cheeks is because the nose tends to produce more oil than in other parts of the face. You may also notice them on the forehead, another area that tends to produce more sebum. Acne is caused by overproduction of oil that clogs pores.

Do acne go away on its own?

In accordance with Cleveland Clinics, it depends on how deep the blackheads have penetrated into your skin. Blackheads that are close to the surface of the skin may disappear on their own, but deeper or “embedded” acne may require the help of a dermatologist or esthetician. 

How to prevent acne on the nose

Wash your face with exfoliating cleansers

"At home, I recommend exfoliating daily with a good cleanser that's specifically formulated for acne-prone skin," she says. Dr. Dhawal Bhanusali, dermatologist and Skincare.com consultant based in New York. Exfoliating cleansers can help remove dead skin cells, remove pore-clogging dirt and impurities, and visibly reduce the appearance of enlarged pores. (Scroll through our list of the best blackhead cleansers.)

Turn on the cleaning brush

For a deeper cleansing, consider using a physical tool while cleaning, such as Anisa Beauty Cleansing Brush. Incorporating a cleansing brush into your routine can help deep clean your pores and remove any stubborn dirt that your hands might not be able to reach. For best results, Dr. Bhanusali recommends washing your face with a cleansing facial brush two to three times a week.

Apply benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. 

After you've cleansed your skin, apply a product that contains acne-fighting ingredients such as benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. “The best way to get rid of blackheads on your nose is to apply benzoyl peroxide gel or salicylic acid lotion before bed,” he says. Dr. William Kwan, dermatologist and Skincare.com consultant based in San Francisco, California. 

Benzoyl peroxide helps kill acne-causing bacteria and remove excess sebum and pore-clogging dead skin cells from the surface of the skin, while salicylic acid helps exfoliate pores to prevent blockages. Try Vichy Normaderm PhytoAction Anti-Acne Daily Moisturizer, which combines the maximum strength of 2% salicylic acid with vitamin C for an even, radiant and complexion without blackheads. 

Use Pore Strips with Caution

The pore strips are coated with an adhesive that adheres to the skin and helps to exfoliate clogged pores when removed. However, while pore strips can certainly help with blackhead removal, Dr. Bhanusali cautions that you shouldn't use them too often. “If you overdo it, you can cause compensatory hypersecretion of sebum, which can lead to more breakouts,” he says. Keep reading for a list of the pore strips we recommend.

Try clay mask

Clay masks are known for sucking out dirt, oil and impurities from clogged pores. They can help reduce the appearance of blackheads, shrink pores, and even give your skin a more matte look. To keep them from drying out your skin, use them up to three times a week (or as directed on the package) and look for formulas that also contain moisturizing ingredients. Find our favorite clay masks in the list below.

Take a shower immediately after sweating

If oil and sweat stay on your skin for a long period of time after a workout, it will eventually lead to clogged pores and, you guessed it, acne. Get into the habit of cleansing your skin immediately after sweating, even if it's just a cleansing wipe, such as CeraVe Plant-Based Moisturizing Makeup Remover Pads.

Use non-comedogenic skin care products 

If you're prone to acne, choose non-comedogenic skin care products and water-based cosmetics that don't clog pores. We have a complete list water-based moisturizers here и non-comedogenic sunscreens here. If you use foundation or concealer, make sure the formulas you use are also non-comedogenic. 

Protect your skin from the sun

In accordance with Mayo ClinicSun exposure can sometimes exacerbate acne discoloration. Since acne is a type of acne, we recommend protecting your skin from harmful UV rays. Limit sun exposure whenever possible and always wear a broad-spectrum, non-comedogenic sunscreen such as La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral SPF Hyaluronic Acid Moisture Cream even when it's cloudy. Use two-finger method to make sure you apply enough SPF, and remember to reapply throughout the day (recommended every two hours). 

The best face wash for blackheads

CeraVe Acne Cleanser

This pharmacy cleanser is a gel-foam that forms a pleasant and refreshing lather on the skin. Formulated with 2% Salicylic Acid and Hectorite Clay, it absorbs oil to make skin less shiny and penetrates pores to prevent breakouts from forming. It also contains ceramides and niacinamide to soothe the skin and combat dryness. 

La Roche-Posay Effaclar Acne Cleanser

Designed for oily and acne-prone skin, this cleanser combines 2% salicylic acid with lipohydroxy acid to gently exfoliate, tighten pores, remove excess sebum and fight acne. It is also non-comedogenic, fragrance-free and suitable for sensitive skin. 

Vichy Normaderm PhytoAction Daily Deep Cleansing Gel

Eliminate clogged pores and blackheads with this cleansing gel designed for sensitive and acne-prone skin. Using a low dose of salicylic acid (0.5%), zinc and copper minerals, and Vichy's patented volcanic water, it cleanses excess oil and dirt without drying out the skin.

The best blackhead removal masks

Youth to people Superclay Purify + Clear Power Mask

Clay masks are the worst enemy of clogged pores and your best friend. This cleansing formula features three clays with exfoliating salicylic acid and kombucha to balance skin and help unclog pores. Use one to three times a week and leave on for 10 minutes at a time. Don't forget to apply moisturizer so your skin doesn't dry out.

Kiehl's Rare Earth Deep Pore Refining Clay Mask

This fast-acting mask uses a combination of kaolin and bentonite clay to smooth and clear clogged skin. According to consumer research conducted by the brand, pores and blackheads are instantly reduced and reduced after just one application. Participants also reported that the skin was fresher, clearer and matte.

Vichy Pore Cleansing Mineral Clay Mask

The creamy, whipped texture of this mask makes it easy to apply to the skin, and we love that you have to leave it on for five minutes. It is formulated with kaolin and bentonite clays, as well as mineral-rich volcanic water, which removes excess sebum and unclogs pores. The addition of aloe vera helps to soothe and hydrate the skin.

Best nose strips for acne

Peace Out Oil Absorbent Pore Strips 

Again, dermatologists recommend using Pore Strips with caution, as overuse can lead to increased sebum production. We like Peace Out Pore Strips because they help remove dirt, excess sebum and dead skin cells, minimizing the appearance of large pores. 

Starface Lift Off Pore Strips

These bright yellow pore strips add a sunny touch to blackhead removal. The package contains eight strips containing aloe vera and witch hazel to help reduce inflammation and soothe the skin after you remove them. Allantoin also promotes hydration by stimulating cell renewal.

Hero Cosmetics Mighty Patch Nose

This XL hydrocolloid strip can be left on for up to eight hours to get rid of shine and dirt on your nose. The hydrocolloid gel traps dirt and sebum to shrink pores and give skin a more matte finish.

Is it possible to squeeze out black dots?

Do not pick or squeeze blackheads

“Never try to pop or pop a blackhead on your own,” says Dr. Bhanusali. It may be tempting, but it can lead to the spread of bacteria, enlarged pores, and skin irritation—it's just not worth the risk. According to Dr. Kwan, "Plucking blackheads also increases the likelihood of stubborn brown or red spots after the blackheads are gone." 

Instead, visit a dermatologist or esthetician for removal. A professional will gently exfoliate your skin and then use sterile equipment to remove the blackhead. You can also make the most of your time in dermatology by asking them to recommend a skin care routine that will help you get rid of acne at home.