But the best part? There are actually methods to get rid of them. Here, we’re breaking down how to get rid of blackheads on nose based on skincare science and supported by product recommendations you can trust.
What Are Blackheads, Anyway?
Blackheads form when hair follicles on your nose get clogged with oil and dead skin cells. When that plug is exposed to air, it oxidizes and turns dark—hence the name “blackhead.” While they’re totally normal (especially around the oily T-zone), below is the guide on how to get rid of blackheads on the nose:
1. Cleanse with a Double Cleanse Routine
Double cleansing is a gentle yet efficient way of removing impurities that lead to blackheads. Start with an oil cleanser to dissolve makeup, sunscreen, and excess sebum, followed by a water cleanser to wipe away the residue.
Products:
- Banila Co Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm (Oil Cleanser)
- CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser (Water-Based Cleanser)
2. Use Salicylic Acid to Deep Clean Pores
Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that penetrates deep into pores and flushes out the gunk. Great for oily and acne skin, especially if blackheads are an ongoing issue.
How to Use:
- Apply a salicylic acid cleanser or toner 2-3 times per week.
- Follow up with a moisturizer.
Products:
3. Detox Weekly with a Clay Mask
Clay masks absorb oil and pull impurities from pores—just right for weekly maintenance. They act like a magnet to draw out what your regular cleanser can’t.
Products:
4. Exfoliate the Right Way
Physical scrubs tend to be irritating to your skin sometimes, so use chemical exfoliants instead. Use products with AHAs (like glycolic acid) or BHAs to break down dead skin and unclog pores gently.
Products:
5. Steam to Open Up Pores Naturally
Steaming your face is an effective, speedy way of opening pores and softening blackheads. Steaming also conditions your skin to absorb products more effectively.
How to Do It:
- Boil water, pour it into a bowl, and hold your face over it with a towel on your head. Steam for 5–10 minutes.
- To receive an extra benefit, include some drops of tea tree oil or lavender essential oil for its soothing effect.
6. Apply Retinoids to Boost Cell Turnover
Retinoids encourage cell turnover and prevent dead skin from clogging pores. They’re also known to reduce the appearance of existing blackheads and prevent new ones from forming.
Start Slowly:
Use retinoids 1–2 times a week, then increase as your skin adjusts.
Products:
Augustinus Bader The Retinol Serum
La Roche-Posay Retinol B3 Serum
7. Don’t Skip Moisturizer (Even If You’re Oily)
It might sound paradoxical, but not using moisturizer can make your skin over-produce oil instead, leading to clogged pores. Choose a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer that hydrates without heaviness.
Products:
8. Use Nose Strips Occasionally
Nose strips work well for surface blackheads but don’t get to the root of the problem. Use them as an occasional solution for a quick cleanup, but don’t rely on them as your default blackhead treatment.
Products:
9. Seek Professional Help for Chronic Cases
Sometimes blackheads simply refuse to move; and that’s fine. A professional facial with extractions or treatments like microdermabrasion can safely clear out pores and smooth out skin texture without damage.
When it comes to determining how to get rid of blackheads on nose, there isn’t a magic that will occur overnight. But with the right habits—and some old-school products—you can make them much less visible. Be gentle with your skin, get into a routine, and keep things simple. Your nose will thank you.
