15 Best Blackhead Masks of 2022

When testing skincare products, GH Beauty Lab scientists distribute label-masked formulas from a variety of brands to a panel of thousands of women across the country with a range of skin types. Consumer testers rate the products on factors like application, texture, scent, ease of use, irritation and look and feel of skin after using according to packaging instructions for a specific time span. GH Beauty Lab experts also take scientific measurements in the Lab using instruments to gauge product results. We gathered this list of products based on our Lab evaluations of face masks, as well as brands that performed well in testing over the years.

✔️ Breakout-fighting ingredients: Blackhead masks may contain AHAs or BHAs such as salicylic acid, lactic acid or glycolic acid. “These work by delivering gentle exfoliating effects,” Dr. Li explains. Clay ingredients absorb excess oils and skin surface impurities.

✔️ Be mindful of fragrances: For particularly sensitive skin types, it may be best to avoid fragrances and excess oils as Dr. Li says it can potentially irritate or occlude the skin to worsen blackheads.

✔️ Take note of usage: With some of the active ingredients such as salicylic acid, use should be based on the tolerability of one’s skin. “Generally, one to three times per week can be effective while not overly irritating the skin that may trigger more blackheads or other types of acne lesions,” she says.

GH Chemist Danusia Wnek develops and oversees the testing of skincare product categories in the Beauty, Health & Sustainability Lab, utilizing both lab instrumentation and consumer feedback to recommend the best products on the market. Based on years of expertise in the beauty industry and personal use, she recommended several of the blackhead masks above.

Associate Product & Reviews Editor Jacqueline Saguin collaborated with GH’s beauty experts and gathered the Lab’s past testing to write this best-of guide. She also consulted dermatologists to answer FAQs about blackhead masks.