Treating blackheads can be a challenge, but for the best results, you need to start with a good cleanser. While a cleanser alone isn’t going to completely get rid of blackheads, an effective formula will start to decongest the pores while clearing away debris to allow your treatments to work their magic. If you’re ready to achieve a clearer complexion, I’ve compiled a list of the absolute best face cleansers for blackheads.
Table of Contents
How I Reviewed Each Product
In order to best recommend products that genuinely work, each of the cleansers mentioned below have been tested by either me or another member of the GoodGlow team. I also referenced product reviews to get a greater sense of what works best for a larger sample.
Each cleanser recommended below is formulated with science-backed ingredients that decongest pores, minimize breakouts, and support general skin health. Keep in mind that, in order to effectively treat blackheads, you’ll need a multi-pronged approach. While each of the cleansers can help clear and prevent blackheads, you’ll also want to add other topical products into your routine for the best results.
Best Face Cleansers For Blackheads Summary
| Best | Cleanser |
|---|---|
| Overall Jump to Review | Tata Harper – Regenerating Cleanser (Amazon) |
| On A Budget Jump to Review | CeraVe – Renewing SA Cleanser (Amazon) |
| Hyaluronic Acid Cleanser Jump to Review | Derma E – Hydrating Gentle Cleanser with Hyaluronic Acid (Amazon) |
| Salicylic Acid Cleanser Jump to Review | La Roche-Posay – Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser (Amazon) |
| Deep Pore Cleanser Jump to Review | Clinique – Blackhead Solutions 7 Day Deep Pore Cleanse & Scrub (Amazon) |
| Charcoal-Based Cleanser Jump to Review | Bioré – Charcoal Acne Cleanser (Amazon) |
| Benzoyl Peroxide Cleanser Jump to Review | PanOxyl – Acne Foaming Wash Benzoyl Peroxide 10% Maximum Strength (Amazon) |
| Gel Cleanser Jump to Review | Mario Badescu – Enzyme Cleansing Gel (Amazon) |
| Foam Cleanser Jump to Review | Sebamed – Clear Face Cleansing Foam (Amazon) |
| AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser Jump to Review | SkinMedica – AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser (Amazon) |
Best Overall:
Tata Harper – Regenerating Cleanser
This daily cleanser from Tata Harper is packed with natural ingredients that gently provide both chemical and physical exfoliation. These ingredients improve texture and tone while decongesting the pores.
GoodGlow Score
Effective
provides gentle physical and chemical exfoliation with apricot microspheres and BHA from white willow bark to give you a healthy looking, radiant glow
16 High-performance botanical ingredients
polishes with 4 sources to dissolve buildup, 4 sources to refine pores, and 8 sources of plumping hydration
Daily cleansing
Exfoliating treatment that buffs and polishes for radiant, healthy looking skin
100% Natural
Nontoxic, and free from all fillers, synthetics, artificial colors and fragrances
Hordeum Vulgare Leaf Juice*, Cetearyl Alcohol, Cetearyl Olivate, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil*, Leuconostoc Ferment Filtrate, Propanediol, Prunus Armeniaca (Apricot) Seed Powder, Citrus Paradisi (Grapefruit) Oil, Sorbitan Olivate, Lactobacillus/Punica Granatum Fruit Ferment Extract, Lactobacillus Ferment, Sambucus Nigra Fruit Extract, Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract, Arnica Montana (Arnica) Extract*, Borago Officinalis (Borage) Leaf Extract*, Calendula Officinalis (Calendula) Flower Extract*, Medicago Sativa (Alfalfa) Extract*, Spiraea Ulmaria (Meadowsweet) Extract*, Olea Europaea (Olive) Oil*, Coco-Glucoside, Cetearyl Glucoside, Kaolin (White Clay), Sclerotium Gum, Citrus Aurantium (Bergamot) Peel Oil, Cetyl Palmitate, Sorbitan Palmitate, Aqua/Water/Eau, Sodium Phytate, CI 77491 (Red Iron Oxide), Alcohol, Limonene, Citral, Linalool
The Tata Harper Regenerating Cleanser takes the top spot as the overall best cleanser for blackheads, because it’s formulated not just to decongest and dissolve buildup, but also to refine the appearance of pores.
The creamy cleanser contains 16 powerful botanical ingredients. One of the star ingredients is antibacterial and anti-inflammatory willow bark extract, which is rich in salicin, a compound that gently exfoliates and unclogs pores. Apricot seed powder works alongside this extract, providing physical exfoliation power to remove dead skin cells and debris.
In addition to these ingredients, the formula features kaolin clay, which absorbs excess sebum and debris to further refine the pores. Pomegranate enzymes and phytic acid salt dissolve buildup on the skin, while a blend of hydrating ingredients (like aloe vera and olive oil) soothe and plump.
Tata Harper Regenerating Cleanser Pros:
- Gently exfoliates and decongests while plumping and brightening the complexion.
- Vegan and cruelty-free, and made without fragrances, dyes, or fillers.
Tata Harper Regenerating Cleanser Cons:
- Expensive.
Best on a Budget:
CeraVe – Renewing SA Cleanser
This affordable CeraVe cleanser gently exfoliates using the power of salicylic acid. It has a foaming gel consistency that clears away debris without drying out the skin.
GoodGlow Score
Exfoliating face wash
Salicylic acid (SA) is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA), an effective exfoliator that removes dead skin cells and promotes radiance. Salicylic acid acts as a chemical exfoliant which feels less harsh than physical ones like face scrubs
Foaming cleanser
With hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and vitamin D, this facial cleanser cleanses, exfoliates, and hydrates skin without leaving a stripped & tight feeling
3 essential ceramides
All CeraVe products, formulated with three essential ceramides (1, 3, 6-II)to help maintain the skin’s natural barrier
Face exfoliator for acne prone skin
Suitable for dry skin, sensitive skin, oily skin, acne-prone, and more
Purified Water, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Glycerin, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Niacinamide, Gluconolactone, Sodium Methylcocoyl Taurate, PEG-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate, Salicylic Acid, Ceramide 6-II, Ceramide 3, Ceramide 1, Hyaluronic Acid, Cholesterol, Sodium Benzoate, Zea Mays (Corn) Oil, Disodium EDTA, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Cholecalciferol, Phytosphingosine, Xanthan Gum, Carbomer, Sodium Hydroxide
The CeraVe Renewing SA Cleanser is an excellent option for anyone trying to spend less on their skincare routine. I’ve regularly used this cleanser, and have found that it effectively cleans my skin without leaving it feeling tight or dry.
The key ingredient in this cleanser is salicylic acid, which is a beta hydroxy acid. This chemical exfoliant is one of the best ingredients for treating blackheads and acne in general, because it dives deep into the pores to unclog debris.
As the salicylic acid tackles blackheads, three essential ceramides improve the skin’s barrier. Hyaluronic acid also locks in hydration, while niacinamide calms, refines pores, and further strengthens the barrier.
CeraVe Renewing SA Cleanser Pros:
- Contains one of the most effective ingredients for fighting blackheads.
- Non-comedogenic, non-irritating, and fragrance-free formula.
- Budget-friendly.
CeraVe Renewing SA Cleanser Cons:
- Not cruelty-free.
Best Hyaluronic Acid Cleanser for Blackheads:
Derma E – Hydrating Gentle Cleanser with Hyaluronic Acid
This Derma E cleanser is formulated to leave the skin feeling refreshed and hydrated. Hyaluronic acid pulls moistures to the skin, while additional ingredients soften and protect.
GoodGlow Score
Cleansing face wash
washes away dirt, oil and impurities with no drying, aging after-effects. The sulfate-free facial cleanser calms and soothes, and the papaya face wash leaves skin looking radiant.
Deeply hydrates
Hyaluronic acid delivers intense moisture, infusing skin with healthy hydration
All natural formula
Papaya gently cleanses and removes dead skin cells; soothing Chamomile boosts skin’s natural glow; Vitamins A & E lock in moisture and improve skin texture; and Lemongrass tones and firms skin
Ingredient Callout
100% vegan and cruelty-free, the eco-ethical skin care products contain no parabens, sulfates, mineral oil, petrolatum, lanolin, gluten, soy or GMOs, and are supplied in recyclable packaging
Purified Water, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate (Coconut Derived), Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine (Coconut Derived), Glyceryl Laurate (Vegetable Derived), Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine (Coconut Derived) , Sodium Hyaluronate (Hyaluronic Acid; Actimoist®Bio-1), Panthenol (Provitamin B5), Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Retinyl Palmitate (Vitamin A), Cymbopogon Schoenanthus (Lemon Grass) Extract, Equisetum Arvense (Horsetail) Extract, Carica Papaya (Papaya) Fruit Extract, Organic Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract*, Allantoin, Potassium Sorbate, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Natural Fragrance Oils.
If you need a hydrating cleanser that is safe for blackhead-prone skin, the Derma E Hydrating Gentle Cleanser with Hyaluronic Acid is your best bet. While it doesn’t contain specific blackhead-fighting ingredients like the CeraVe or Tata Harper options mentioned above, it is made to be safe for acne-prone skin. It sweeps away debris that can clog the pores, and leaves the skin feeling smooth and plump, rather than uncomfortably dry.
Of course, the key ingredient in this cleanser is hyaluronic acid. This ingredient attracts moisture to the skin and locks it in to improve hydration levels. The formula also features vitamins A and E, which both provide potent antioxidant benefits, helping to defend the skin against damaging free radicals. Panthenol (AKA provitamin B5), chamomile flower extract, and papaya fruit extract – all of which have anti-inflammatory properties – soothe skin irritation, promoting a calmer and more comfortable complexion.
Derma E Hydrating Gentle Cleanser with Hyaluronic Acid Pros:
- Safe for acne-prone skin.
- Leaves skin feeling hydrated and calm.
- Vegan, cruelty-free, and made without gluten or soy.
Derma E Hydrating Gentle Cleanser with Hyaluronic Acid Cons:
- Contains natural fragrance oils, which may be irritating to some.
Best Salicylic Acid Cleanser for Blackheads:
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser
This powerful gel cleanser from La Roche-Posay contains a 2% concentration of salicylic acid. It dives into the pores to effectively treat and prevent blackheads.
Good Glow Score
Dermatologist Tested
Clinically tested to reduce excess surface oil by up to 47%.
Clean Ingredients
Oil & Paraben Free
Effective
Made with Salicylic Acid acne medication, to fight acne breakouts & blackhead removal
Sensitive Skin
Suitable for people with sensitive skin and allergy tested
Recommended for
Acne, oily/shiny skin
Non Comedogenic
Does not contain pore clogging ingredients
Aqua/Water/Eau, Glycerin, Coco-Betaine, Propanediol, Sodium Cocoyl Glycinate, Peg-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Hydroxide, Citric Acid, Ceramide Np, Niacinamide Disodium Edta, Capryloyl Glycine, Caprylyl Glycol, Acrylates Copolymer (Code Fil: D240552/1)
The La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser is personally one of my favorite cleansers for maintaining a clear complexion, and is well-formulated for anyone looking to target blackheads. It’s also a particularly great option for anyone battling oiliness and shine, as it’s been clinically tested to minimize excess oil by up to 47%.
This gel-to-foam face wash combines a 2% concentration of salicylic acid with lipo-hydroxy acid, which is a derivative of salicylic acid. Together, these ingredients exfoliate the skin, clearing away excess oil and clogging debris. The formula also features glycerin, a humectant that ensures the skin doesn’t feel dry after cleansing.
What also makes the formula stand out is what’s not included. The non-comedogenic formula is made without parabens, oils, or fragrances. It’s also dermatologist and allergy tested.
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser Pros:
- Contains both salicylic acid and lipo-hydroxy acid, which fight blackheads.
- Made without parabens, fragrances, or oils.
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser Cons:
- Not cruelty-free.
Best Deep Pore Cleanser for Blackheads:
Clinique – Blackhead Solutions 7 Day Deep Pore Cleanse & Scrub
This unique formula from Clinique can be used as a cleanser, scrub, and mask. It’s created to provide a deep pore treatment, clearing clogs and refining the appearance of enlarged pores.
GoodGlow Score
Effective Formula
Provides deep cleansing action, reducing the appearance of pores and black heads whilst also removing excess oil
Proven Ingredients
Salicylic Acid and Glucosamine remove dead skin cells
Refines Pores and Eliminates Blackheads
Salicylic acid, kaolin clay, and glucosamine target enlarged pores and blackheads
Fragrance-Free Formula
Made without added fragrances, or parabens or phthalates.
Water, Kaolin, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Magnesium Aluminum Silicate, Glyceryl Stearate, Peg-100 Stearate, Silica, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Allyl Methacrylates Crosspolymer, Gentiana Lutea (Gentian) Root Extract, Laminaria Saccharina Extract, Sucrose, Acetyl Glucosamine, Caprylyl Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Tocopheryl Acetate, Sodium Hydroxide, Xanthan Gum, Disodium Edta, Phenoxyethanol, Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891), Blue 1 (Ci 42090), Yellow 5 (Ci 19140).
The Clinique Blackhead Solutions 7 Day Deep Pore Cleanse & Scrub is excellent for deeply cleansing the pores, as it’s packed with highly effective, science-backed ingredients that refine pores, unclog debris, and control excess oil.
This Clinique cleanser and scrub stands out among some of the other options in this list, because it contains multiple active ingredients that tackle blackheads. It contains a 1% concentration of salicylic acid to gently exfoliate and unclog debris, as well as kaolin clay, which draws out excess oil. Glucosamine further helps to clear away clogs.
In addition to these blackhead fighting and pore refining ingredients, vitamin E and laminaria saccharina extract soothe the skin. After using this cleanser consistently, the pores look more refined, blackheads are dramatically reduced, and the complexion is calm and comforted.
Clinique Blackhead Solutions 7 Day Deep Pore Cleanse & Scrub Pros:
- Contains effective blackhead fighting and pore refining ingredients.
- Made without parabens, fragrances, or phthalates.
Clinique Blackhead Solutions 7 Day Deep Pore Cleanse & Scrub Cons:
- Not cruelty-free.
Best Charcoal-Based Cleanser for Blackheads:
Bioré – Charcoal Acne Cleanser
This powerful drugstore cleanser combines salicylic acid with charcoal to treat acne-prone skin. These ingredients tackle blackheads, while also absorbing excess oil.
GoodGlow Score
Effective
Infused with natural charcoal to deep clean pores and absorb unwanted oil for balanced purification
Deep pore cleanser
helps to clear pores and prevent the development of new acne-related blemishes
Helps prevent breakouts
By combining a charcoal face wash with 1% Salicylic Acid to treat existing acne, you can help avoid your next breakout
Ingredient Callout
Oil Free, non-comedogenic, dermatologist tested, vegan friendly, and cruelty free
Salicylic Acid, Water, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sorbitol, Glycerin, Laureth-4 Carboxylic Acid, Ethylhexylglycerin, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Sodium Benzoate, Fragrance, Menthol, Sodium Hydroxide, Polyquaternium-39, Disodium Edta, Charcoal Powder
The Bioré Charcoal Acne Cleanser stands out for being both effective and affordable. Like many of the options on this list, it uses the power of salicylic acid to tackle blackheads and acne in general. However, what sets it apart is the addition of charcoal powder. Charcoal works to absorb pore-clogging debris, helping to both treat and prevent blackheads. It also helps control excess oil for a less shiny complexion.
For extra hydrating benefits, this oil-free cleanser contains glycerin. This humectant helps counteract the potential drying effects of the salicylic acid.
Bioré Charcoal Acne Cleanser Pros:
- Effective against blackheads and other forms of acne, as well as excess oil.
- Vegan and cruelty-free.
Bioré Charcoal Acne Cleanser Cons:
- Contains fragrance, which may be irritating for some skin types.
Best Benzoyl Peroxide Cleanser for Blackheads:
PanOxyl – Acne Foaming Wash Benzoyl Peroxide 10% Maximum Strength
This powerful cleanser contains a potent concentration of benzoyl peroxide. Benzoyl peroxide is a science-backed ingredient that effectively fights blackheads and other forms of acne.
GoodGlow Score
Strong Concentration
Contains the highest concentration of benzoyl peroxide available OTC
Potent Acne-Fighter
Benzoyl peroxide eliminates blackheads and other forms of acne
Non-Comedogenic
Simple formula doesn’t contain any pore-clogging ingredients.
Fragrance-Free
Made without added fragrances.
Active Ingredient: Benzoyl Peroxide (10%) Inactive Ingredients: Carbomer Homopolymer Type C, Carbomer Interpolymer Type A, Decyl Glucoside, Dimethicone, Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate, Glycerin, Palmitic Acid, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Polyoxyl 40 Stearate, Propanediol, Purified Water, Silica, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Citrate, Sodium Hydroxide, Sodium Laurylglucosides Hydroxypropylsulfonate, Sorbitan Stearate, Stearic Acid, t-Butyl Alcohol, Xanthan Gum.
Benzoyl peroxide is a highly effective ingredient for treating and preventing acne. This is due to its ability to quickly kill acne-causing bacteria. It also improves the skin’s ability to shed more effectively, which helps unclog the pores.
The PanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash Benzoyl Peroxide 10% Maximum Strength contains the highest amount of benzoyl peroxide available over-the-counter. It’s a particularly great choice for anyone looking for a powerful remedy for treating not just blackheads, but other forms of acne, as well. This is also suitable for anyone in need of a cleanser to treat both face and body acne.
PanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash Pros:
- Highly effective against blackheads and other forms of acne.
- Affordable.
- Fragrance-free and non-comedogenic.
PanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash Cons:
- May cause dryness, due to the high concentration of benzoyl peroxide.
Best Gel Cleanser for Blackheads:
Mario Badescu – Enzyme Cleansing Gel
This gel cleanser from Mario Badescu refreshes and deeply cleans the skin. It clears away impurities and excess oil, and promotes a clearer and more radiant complexion.
GoodGlow Score
Gentle
Thoroughly cleanses without being harsh on the skin
Hydrating
Glycerin ensures the skin is left feeling supple
Soothing
Papaya extract calms the skin
Vegan-Friendly
Free of animal-derived ingredients, and not tested on animals
Aqua (Water, Eau), Glycerin, Propylene Glycol, PEG-8 Stearate, PPG-2 Hydroxyethyl Cocamide, Carica Papaya (Papaya) Fruit Extract, Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Fruit Extract, Carbomer, Sodium Chloride, Parfum (Fragrance), Phenoxyethanol, Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Triethanolamine, Diazolidinyl Urea, Mica, CI 77891 (Titanium Dioxide), CI 19140 (Yellow 5), CI 42090 (Blue 1), CI 15985 (Yellow 6).
The Mario Badescu Enzyme Cleansing Gel is a great match for anyone looking for a gentle, acneic skin-safe cleanser that effectively cleans while refreshing the skin. Compared to other options on the list, it doesn’t contain quite as strong active ingredients. However, it effectively gets rid of impurities on the skin, helping to prevent anything from clogging the pores and triggering blackheads.
This gel cleanser contains papaya and grapefruit extracts, which both help the skin retain moisture. Papaya also has anti-inflammatory properties, and helps to leave the skin feeling soothed and comfortable. The formula also contains glycerin, which further locks in moisture.
Mario Badescu Enzyme Cleansing Gel Pros:
- Gentle formula that effectively clears away pore-clogging impurities.
- Phthalate-free and oil-free.
- Vegan and cruelty-free.
Mario Badescu Enzyme Cleansing Gel Cons:
- Contains fragrance, which may cause irritation.
Best Foam Cleanser for Blackheads:
Sebamed – Clear Face Cleansing Foam
This foaming daily cleanser uses the power of montaline C40 to eliminate blackheads and other forms of acne. It cleanses without drying out the skin.
GoodGlow Score
Simple Formula
Formulated with just a select list of effective ingredients
Gentle
Thorough, but doesn’t cause irritation or dryness
Soothing
Panthenol helps quell irritation
Fights Acne
Antibacterial montaline C40 eliminates blackheads and other forms of acne
Aqua, Cocamidopropyl Betainamide MEA Chloride, Hydroxypropyl Oxidized Starch PG-Trimonium Chloride, Panthenol, Sodium Hydroxide, Parfum, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Benzoate
The Sebamed Clear Face Cleansing Foam is a bit different, because it contains an ingredient that isn’t found in other options on the list: montaline C40. The antibacterial ingredient is able to fight blackhead-causing bacteria for a clearer complexion.
In addition to this ingredient, the formula features panthenol. This anti-inflammatory ingredient soothes the skin for more comfortable, less irritable skin.
This mild foaming cleanser thoroughly rids the skin of impurities, but does so without stripping the skin and making it feel tight and dry. While it’s an effective anti-acne formula, it’s gentle enough for daily use.
Sebamed Clear Face Cleansing Foam Pros:
- Effectively treats and prevents blackheads.
- Cleanses without drying out the skin.
Sebamed Clear Face Cleansing Foam Cons:
- Contains fragrance, which may cause irritation for some.
Best AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser:
SkinMedica – AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser
This exfoliating cleanser from SkinMedica contains a range of chemical exfoliants, which work together to treat and prevent blemishes, promote a more even tone, and improve skin texture.
GoodGlow Score
Gentle Physical Exfoliation
Jojoba spheres gently exfoliate the skin for a softer complexion
Improves Texture and Tone
AHAs promote a more even skin tone and texture
Targets Acne
Salicylic acid works to unclog pores and eliminate acne
Fragrance-Free
Formulated without added fragrances
Water/Aqua/Eau, Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, PEG/PPG-8/3 Diisostearate, Hydrogenated Jojoba Oil, Acrylates Copolymer, Vaccinium Myrtillus Fruit/Leaf Extract, Saccharum Officinarum Extract, Acer Saccharum Extract, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Fruit Extract, Citrus Limon Fruit Extract, Salicylic Acid, Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract, Panthenol, Bisabolol, Citric Acid, Glycerin, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Hydroxide, Disodium EDTA, Potassium Sorbate, Phenoxyethanol, Lavandula Angustifolia Oil, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Peel Oil, Mica, Tin Oxide, Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891).
If you want a cleanser with both alpha and beta hydroxy acids, you’ll want to try the SkinMedica AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser. This cleanser is formulated to not just fight blackheads and acne, but also to improve overall tone and texture.
Like many other cleansers on this list, this formula features salicylic acid (a BHA), which helps treat and prevent multiple forms of acne. The cleanser also features lactic, glycolic, citric, and malic acids, all of which are derived from natural extracts. These AHAs target uneven skin tone and texture, while also minimizing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Jojoba spheres provide additional exfoliation physically, while licorice root extract and panthenol soothe the skin.
SkinMedica AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser Pros:
- Formulated with both AHAs and BHAs, which target a range of skin concerns.
- Contains soothing ingredients.
- Fragrance-free.
SkinMedica AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser Cons:
- On the pricier side.
