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All breakouts are unwelcome. Period. But there’s something extra frustrating about stubborn little blackheads. While it may be tempting (and satisfying) to start on a blackhead squeezing spree with your fingertips, don’t do it! There are safer ways to remove those little suckers at home and it all starts with sourcing a good blackhead remover tool.

If you’ve ever wondered what blackheads really are, “they’re a form of acne in which your pores become densely filled with oil and debris,” says board-certified dermatologist, Joshua Zeichner, MD. “The opening of the pore is wide, so you can see the contents from the surface of the skin and as the oil oxidizes, it turns black.” Hence the name "blackheads."

As far as extractions go, Dr. Zeichner says at-home extractions can be helpful if done the right way. These 12 blackhead removal tools are super simple to use. Just remember, be kind and gentle to your skin to get the best results—and avoid the temptation to use them on other types of pimples. “Blackhead tools should be used only on blackheads,” says Dr. Zeichner. “Attempting to pick [whiteheads or cysts] will inevitably cause more harm than good."

These are the 12 best blackhead-removal tools to try right now. FYI: Most product instructions say you should cleanse your face before using them. We think that sounds like good advice no matter which option you choose! And be sure to read all instructions that come with each product — we've just included the high points, culled from info available at each product link, below.

This ultrasonic device features three different modes and uses up to 24,000 vibrations per second to help de-gunk pores and loosen up blackheads. Plus, it helps your favorite serums penetrate deeper into the skin for better results.

How to use it: Use the device with a cleanser, facial oil, or serum. For 5 to 10 minutes, slowly glide the tool around your face.

If you’re new to removing your own blackheads, you may want to try a fuss-free tool like this one. It’s dual-ended with one side to remove whiteheads and the other that works on blackheads.

How to use it: Use the small loop for white heads and the flat side to extract blackheads.

Sure, this tool is quite the investment, but it’s a multitasker that will surely come in handy. Use Extract Mode to remove dirt, oil, and blackheads and Infuse mode to help your favorite skincare seep in.

How to use it: Cleanse and remove makeup and keep skin wet while you use the tool. Press power button once to activate extract mode (press it twice for “infuse” mode) and apply gentle yet firm pressure as you glide the device over your face and neck.

You can actually embrace your inner Dr. Pimple Popper with this official Dr. P. extractor tool. It features a large loop for getting at blackheads and a smaller loop to tackle whiteheads, too.

How to use it: After cleansing the area, apply a warm, moist, clean towel over it for 10 to 15 minutes. The company recommends using cotton and alcohol to clean the area you're treating and to disinfect the tool before each use.

Encircle the area you'd like to treat with the loop. Move it around, applying slow and even pressure lightly. Stop if the comedone doesn't release easily.

For a really reasonable price point, try this tool, which curves around the blackhead to put pressure on it. It's extra sharp for precision removal, so just be super cautious.

How to use it: The instructions also recommend starting with cleansing and a hot towel to open the pores (or using post-shower), and cleansing the area and tool with cotton and alcohol afterwards. To use the tool, place the curved tips on the sides of the blemish and press "slightly." Carefully remove it using the pointed tips.

A tweezer-inspired extractor tool like this one is doubly effective when it comes to squeezing the blackhead from both sides.

How to use it: The Revolve site lists four "easy" steps: press, squeeze, roll, and lift.

If you prefer to have extracting options when removing your blemishes, this is the kit for you. It comes with six different stainless-steel tools that help to help remove those stubborn blackheads. And, the carrying case makes it easier to keep these tools clean and free of bacteria in between uses.

How to use it: Since this kit comes with six different tools, be sure to read the instructions that come along with it.

A facial steamer may not be the most common option for removing blackheads, but hear us out. This steamer is a good primer for extractions since it helps to prep and soften skin. Trust: It can make your extractions a whole lot easier.

How to use it: The brand recommends starting with the NanoSteamer to open pores, then use the skin kit to remove impurities. It comes with additional instructions and a support contact manual.

This device uses blue light pulse technology said to kill acne-causing bacteria. It’s easy to use while targeting blemishes in as little as 30 seconds.

How to use it: After cleansing your face, press the center button once, and point the red light over a blemish. Hold it on the blemish, at which point the blue light will activate, for 30 seconds (it will pulse every 30 seconds). Apply two to four rounds. Stop use if skin discoloration lasts more than 24 hours.

Gone are the days when you had to visit a dermatologist for proper microdermabrasion. This tool purportedly exfoliates deeper than a traditional physical scrub and vacuums impurities, dirt, and debris out of the skin.

How to use it: Cleanse and dry your skin. The brand recommends practicing on your arm and neck before using the device on your face. Starting with the white, most sensitive disc, pull the skin tight and move the device in an upward motion. They say not to make more than two passes over one area. Afterwards, a toner and moisturizer are recommended as is cleaning the disc with rubbing alcohol or an antibacterial soap. You should wait 6 to 7 days between treatments.

This three speed device is said to buff away dead skin cells, while the vacuum suction targets congested areas, helping to purify your pores. Not to mention, how sleek is this marble design? How to use it: You can perform your microdermabrasion and pore cleaner treatment wet or dry. Choose which interchangeable tip and which speed you’ll use. Add water or a non-oil based toner to the reservoir to create a purportedly hydrating mist after “detoxifying” pores. See instructions for more.

For those who want the option of suction or extraction, this kit is a solid choice. With five adjustable suctions, you can use it for removing various sizes of blackheads all over the face and body. Plus, it comes with a USB cord for easy charging.

How to use it: The product's Amazon page recommends using the product twice a week. They say to follow the instructions on the label carefully and suggest using an ice cube on the area after removing blackheads.

Which tool should you use?

The choice is really up to you. You want to make sure you not only feel comfortable using the tool, but that it’s actually safe to use without any experience or training (since most of us aren’t licensed professionals). The skin spatulas work, “by applying pressure to the skin to push out excess oil,” Dr. Zeichner says. But he recommends using these for small blackheads only. The suction devices remove oils and dead cells, but he warns that these may not fully remove a blackhead.

What are the risks of using an at-home extractor?

If used properly, Dr. Zeichner explains these tools can be quite effective. But if used incorrectly or on unpoppable pimples, they can cause damage to the skin that leads to inflammation, infections or scars. Because blackheads are on the surface of the skin, they have an easy way out. If you have a painful underground pimple or recurring whitehead, do not try to use your tool!

How often should you use your tool?

Listen, a blackhead removal tool can be helpful, but Dr. Zeichner recommends not making a regular habit out of it. First, examine your breakout and determine if it’s ready to come out (you’ll know if it starts to come out with minimal pressure). If not, then abort the mission. “Applying too much pressure can traumatize the outer skin layer,” says Dr. Zeichner. Be gentle! Overusing your tool can lead to raw skin which increases the likelihood of infection or scaring.

Should you clean your blackhead remover tool?

Every. Single. Time. Cleaning your tool can kill bacteria and help to keep your skin infection free. Read the directions to see the best and safest way to disinfect your tool, because cleaning practices can differ based on the device. In addition, Dr. Zeichner says the tool should always be used on clean skin with freshly washed hands.

Are there other ways to eliminate blackheads?

Besides extractor tools, there are practices that can help wave goodbye to your blackheads. “Go-to ingredients for blackheads are a retinoid or salicylic acid,” Dr. Zeichner says. Retinoids act like pipe cleaners to prevent cells from sticking together and clear out the blockages within the pores, he continues. And, salicylic acid can remove dead cells and excess oil from the surface of the skin. So, if you find your breakouts are appearing more than usual, consider adding one of these powerhouse ingredients into your daily skincare routine.