How to Get Rid of Blackheads (and Unclog Pores) with Korean Skincare

Blackheads are one of the most stubborn, and most misunderstood, skin concerns. The good news: with the right gentle, consistent routine, you can clear them out and keep pores looking smaller and cleaner. Here's how to get rid of blackheads and unclog pores the Korean skincare way, without damaging your skin.

Quick answer

Blackheads are clogged pores, filled with oil and dead skin, that turn dark when exposed to air. The most effective way to clear them is a gentle, consistent routine built around a BHA (salicylic acid) to dissolve the buildup inside pores, plus niacinamide to balance oil and refine their look. Double cleanse in the evening, exfoliate 2–3 times a week, never squeeze, and always wear sunscreen. Shop pore-care picks in our Smooth & Pore Refining collection.

Key takeaways

• Blackheads are oxidized clogged pores, not dirt.
• BHA (salicylic acid) is the single best ingredient for clearing them.
• Niacinamide balances oil and refines the look of pores.
• Double cleanse, exfoliate 2–3x a week, and never squeeze.
• Daily sunscreen keeps pores from looking larger over time.

What causes blackheads?

A blackhead forms when a pore fills with excess oil and dead skin cells. Because the pore stays open, the surface is exposed to air and oxidizes, turning dark, which is why blackheads look black even though it isn't trapped dirt. They're most common in oily areas like the nose, chin and forehead. Over-washing and harsh scrubbing actually make them worse by triggering more oil and irritation.

The best ingredients for blackheads and clogged pores

• BHA (salicylic acid) — oil-soluble, so it gets inside the pore and dissolves the buildup that causes blackheads. The number-one active for congestion.
• Niacinamide — regulates oil and refines the look of pores over time.
• Clay — clay masks absorb excess oil and help draw out congestion.
• An oil cleanser — the first step of double cleansing melts away the oil and sunscreen that clog pores.

A gentle Korean routine to clear pores

1. Double cleanse at night — an oil cleansing balm or oil first, then a gentle water-based cleanser.
2. Exfoliate with a BHA 2–3x a week — use a salicylic acid toner or serum, not daily, to avoid over-stripping.
3. Use a clay mask 1–2x a week on oily areas to absorb excess sebum.
4. Apply niacinamide to balance oil and refine pores. Browse the niacinamide collection.
5. Moisturize and wear SPF daily — hydration keeps oil balanced, and sunscreen stops pores from looking larger over time.

Not sure where to start? Take our skin quiz, or shop the full Smooth & Pore Refining collection.

What NOT to do

• Don't squeeze or use metal extractors at home — it damages skin and can cause scarring and larger-looking pores.
• Don't over-exfoliate — daily acids strip the barrier and trigger more oil. Two to three times a week is plenty.
• Don't rely on pore strips alone — they remove the surface plug but don't stop blackheads coming back; treat the cause with a BHA.
• Don't skip moisturizer because you're oily — dehydrated skin makes more oil.

Can you shrink your pores permanently?

Honestly, no, pore size is largely genetic, and you can't permanently change it. But you can make pores look noticeably smaller and cleaner by keeping them clear of buildup, controlling oil with niacinamide, and protecting skin with daily SPF. Consistency, not harshness, is what keeps them refined.

Related reading

• AHA vs BHA vs PHA: The Complete Korean Exfoliation Guide
• Double Cleansing: The Complete Korean Guide
• Complete Niacinamide Guide

Frequently asked questions

How do I get rid of blackheads?

Use a gentle, consistent routine: double cleanse at night, exfoliate with a BHA (salicylic acid) 2 to 3 times a week to dissolve buildup inside pores, add niacinamide to balance oil, and wear sunscreen daily. Avoid squeezing.

What is the best ingredient for blackheads?

BHA (salicylic acid) is the best ingredient because it's oil-soluble and gets inside the pore to dissolve the oil and dead skin that cause blackheads.

Are pore strips good for blackheads?

Pore strips remove the surface plug but don't prevent blackheads from returning. For lasting results, treat the cause with a BHA rather than relying on strips.

Why do I keep getting blackheads on my nose?

The nose has more oil glands, so it's the most common spot for clogged pores. A regular BHA and oil-balancing niacinamide help keep the area clear.

Can I get rid of blackheads permanently?

You can keep them under control with a consistent routine, but because pores naturally produce oil, ongoing gentle care is what keeps blackheads from returning.

Should I squeeze blackheads?

No. Squeezing can damage skin, cause scarring and make pores look larger. Dissolve buildup with a BHA instead, or see a professional for extractions.