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If you’re gonna do it, here’s the safest way.

So you want smooth, poreless skin sans blackheads, eh? Maybe you've been searchin' the web for the best blackhead removal tools to clear out those clogged pores because they never seem to disappear. Or frankly, you're just so f*cking over acne, you're willing to try anything—even if that means poking and prodding until your skin is inflamed and red. Which, like, I feel you, and that's why I hate to be the one to tell you this, but there's no such thing as a poreless face. All skin has texture, and to some extent, everyone has blackheads—oh, and picking at them can make the sitch worse!

Yep, feel free to take a minute. It's A LOT. But there's nothing wrong with acne, texture, or pores, and they happen to be a totally natural part of life. That said, it's completely understandable why you may want to clear up your skin—starting with those pesky black dots on your face. So that's why when a ton of blackhead removal tools—like pore vacuums and the latest fad, the ultrasonic skin scrubber—went viral on social media, I wasn't surprised (I too have tried some pretty weird sh*t to clear my skin). But because I've learned from my past of overdoing it on the DIY acne treatments, I was skeptical, to say the least.

Ultimately, I questioned the effectiveness of these blackhead removal tools, and most importantly, their safety. And because I wanted answers and my blackheads gone FAST, I went straight to the peeps that know best: dermatologists. Below, a few skin experts sound off on everything you need to know about blackhead removal tools and the best ones.

Quick refresh: A blackhead is a form of acne that develops when pores fill up with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria, explains Dr. Rachel Maiman, board-certified dermatologist at Marmur Medical. "When exposed to air, keratin—the primary protein of which your skin cells are made—becomes oxidized, turning it black," she says, hence why it's called a blackhead. (Think: a dark wax "plug" clogging your pore.)

As to whether blackhead removal tools work, it depends on the desired outcome you're looking for, and what tool you're referring to (considering there are so many). "Blackhead removal tools are quite variable in their efficacy," says Dr. Maiman. To some degree, yes, most of the at-home tools will work...slightly. But other than clearing a bit of gunk out of the opening of your pores (and OFC, it being a little satisfying) or extracting a singular blackhead that's been around for a while, as Dr. Maiman explains, these tools are a short-term fix and not a long-term solution. Despite your best efforts, the pores will eventually fill back up again. Sorry! No quick fixes here!

But don't fret and lose alllll hope. In fact, if you *really* want to clear out those suckers, the key is to do so over time and with ingredients that work. Chemical exfoliants and retinoids are the best way to treat blackheads, hands down. Remember it, think about it, say it, and don't forget it—because if you want a long-term solution, I'd add one to your skincare routine ASAP.

Whenever a breakout appears to be ripe for the picking, well, we pick (and pick and pick) until (a) it's gone, or (b) we're left with a bigger mess, or even worse, an acne scar. Which, awesome if it disappears, but if left to our own acne removal devices, it can easily end up being the latter—no fun. As always, "any form of manipulation to the skin should be done by professionals who are trained to address potential complications," says Dr. Maiman. It is also important to note that those with dark melanin-rich skin should use particular caution, as the skin is more prone to hyperpigmentation, she explains.

There is some good news, though: Dr. Mona Gohara, board-certified dermatologist and associate clinical professor at Yale, explains that if done correctly and with caution, blackhead removal tools can be a very effective way to clear some of those pesky, stubborn blackheads that don't seem to go away (i.e., the dark, more obvious ones that have been on your face for days, weeks, or even months). Beforehand, "ensure that you consult your dermatologist to confirm that this is the right approach for you," says Gohara.

So, if you choose to use them—after acknowledging the risks and with caution—there are a few important tips you should keep in mind to make sure you're using 'em correctly and as safely as possible:

So if you're ready to take those pesky black dots on, these are the 12 best blackhead removal tools—from comedone extractors to ultrasonic skin spatulas—that'll help you remove gunk from your pores.

According to Dr. Maiman, the "gold standard" of blackhead removal tools is a stainless steel comedone extractor. The best part? They are safe to use on sensitive skin and will only cost you a few bucks. Place the blackhead in the middle of the extractor "loop" and gently push on the skin while slowly dragging the tool across the area. If the blackhead releases with ease, there ya go! If not, that's your indication to let it be and seek a pro.

If you're unsure which comedone extractor to go with, this set comes with six different tools that'll take the guesswork out. Each tool is equipped with a stainless steel non-slip grip to ensure that you've got a good hold during extractions. Remember to clean each tool thoroughly with alcohol before placing them back into the included leather case (!!)

A similar comedone extractor as above is this cute lil' pink tool by Tweezerman. The key difference between this and the first is that instead of two "loops," there is a beveled flat tip for exfoliation. Beforehand, use the exfoliation end to gently scrape away visible dry skin from areas prone to blackheads, using an up and down stroking motion. Once done, use the comedone extractor side, following the previous directions on those pesky guys!

Another variation of the comedone extractor is this tweezer and pointed tip tool duo. Before extracting, Dr. Maiman explains that the sharp tip is used to "gently puncture the pore to dislodge the contents and make for easier extraction." Remember to do so with caution and gently poke only the blackhead itself (!!) If the blackhead is almost out, yet is being a little fussy, the rounded tweezers will help to pull it out the rest of the way.

If you haven't seen a pore vacuum on TikTok recently, WYD?! The viral blackhead removal tool uses a "vacuum suction" to do just that—suction gunk out of your pores. Place it on an area of your skin with congested pores and begin on the lowest setting, explains Dr. Maiman. Before you invest in one, check out our pore vacuum facial review for everything you need to know about 'em and if they really work.

Ahhh, another viral blackhead removal tool—and arguably the latest—is the ultrasonic skin spatula. Dr. Maiman explains that this is a water-based exfoliation device, so the skin must begin and stay wet throughout the process. "Using gentle pressure, push the device along the skin in an upward and/or outward motion. The slower you go, the deeper and more effective the ultrasonic waves will be," she says. Bonus: this blackhead removal tool by Dermaflash also infuses serum into your skin...a two-for-one deal!

If you're not ready to go all out on the high-tech gadget tools or wanna leave the comedone extractors to the pros, consider purchasing this traditional Moroccan exfoliating tool. It may not remove individual blackheads, but it will gently exfoliate the skin to loosen up debris in the pores and leave your skin feeling oh-so-smooth. Pair it with your favorite cleansing balm for the ultimate experience. FYI, I'm personally obsessed with this!

On the other hand, if you err on the side of caution but still want a high-tech modern tool, the Foreo Luna Mini 3 is a gentle, pulsating exfoliator that works to remove dead skin and oil, you know, everything that makes up a blackhead. Because of how gentle the device is, you can use it up to two times per day. Pro tip: Use a salicylic acid cleanser with it for a long-term blackhead treatment.

I'll give it to ya, pore strips are satisfying as hell. But in the much-debated pore strip world, there's always that question: Do pore strips really work?! Well, don't you worry, we broke down everything you need to know about pore strips and how to use 'em, so check that out for an in-depth tutorial. These strips are rich in charcoal and acetic acid from eggshells. If you don't know what acetic acid does, DW, you're not alone. Acetic acid helps to clear topical bacteria. Which, as we learned earlier, is the main component of those fun little blackheads of yours.

If you want a gentler, non-invasive blackhead removing tool, consider a blue light therapy acne treatment. Blue light has an antimicrobial effect when targeted at the skin—this means it will kill acne-causing bacteria that get clogged in your pores. Don't expect results overnight though, this treatment is definitely one you'll see working overtime. Remember, protect your eyes while using it!!

This cute bb isn't exactly a blackhead removal tool, per se, but it is effective at removing blackheads! Cellulose beads and black mud balm work together to remove excess sebum and gently exfoliate the pores. If you have sensitive skin, be wary of exfoliation products because they can dry out and irritate your skin with too much use. Stick to three to four times per week with this adorable little guy.

If you really wanna get fancy-schmancy, instead of a warm towel or shower, you could invest in a facial steamer. This, as we mentioned before, is a good idea to do beforehand in order to loosen debris for a better extraction and less trauma. This one by Vanity Planet is my fave, considering it has a hot AND cold setting. But if you want even more options and all of your facial steamer questions answered, don't you worry, we have a guide for that too.