Top 9 Korean Beauty Skincare Products to Remove Blackheads

How to get rid of blackheads on nose

Does your skin feel congested? Pores look enlarged? Does your skin feel more textured than usual? Yes? then you are experiencing a common case of clogged pores. Everyone has pores. Not only is It a path for our hair to grow out of, but It is also a path for our sebum to travel to the surface of our skin. This sebum acts as a natural hydrator and protector. In addition, When the pathway for our sebum becomes Clogged, our sebum becomes trapped. As a result, manifesting as either sebaceous filaments, whiteheads, or blackheads. Clogged pores are a frequent issue all skin-types suffer with and for those who want their skin to stop looking like a strawberry. Let me introduce you to the Best Korean beauty skincare for Blackheads (Clogged Pores).

Top-rated Korean skincare products to remove blackhead

Even though I suggest reading all recommendations to find the best fit for your skin type, if you prefer to check the top-rated products first, click the image below to see the reviews directly.

Best Overall: Dr. G Brightening Peeling Gel

• Dr. G Brightening Peeling Gel
• 120g
• $15 ~ $17
• Skin Type: combination, oily, acne-prone

Ingredient Callouts :

#alcohol-free #essential oil-free #paraben-free #sulfate-free

Key Ingredients :

• Brightening: Licorice Root Extract, Ascorbyl Glucoside (Vitamin C)
• Soothing: Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Allantoin
• Exfoliating: Willow Bark Extract

Cautions for Use :

Fragrance, Vitamin C

How to Use :

• First, wash your face.
• With your face still wet, put a proper amount of the gel on your face.
• Softly rub the gel on your face. (Rubbing for over a minute can cause irritation)
• Wash gently with lukewarm water.

This face peeling gel is one of the best non-toxic exfoliators! Compared to the peeling gels sold, Dr. G Brightening Peeling Gel does not use 20 harmful ingredients. The low-irritant exfoliator uses the naturally originated cellulose to make your skin feel fresh and cool. The best part is this gel uses Trehalose, Honey Extract, and Allantoin to smooth, calm, refresh and repair your skin even after the exfoliation. Lastly, note that this gel contains tea tree leaf oil that is a good ingredient for acne and oily skin.

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Best Sebum control: I’m The Real Shrek Clay Mask Pack

• I’m The Real Shrek Clay Mask Pack
• 110g
• $13 ~ $14
• Skin Type: combination, oily, acne-prone

Ingredient Callouts :

#essential oil-free #paraben-free #sulfate-free

Key Ingredients :

• Exfoliating: Kaoline, Bentonite
• Soothing: Centella Asiatica Extract, Green Tea Water, Aloe Leaf Extract
• Brightening: Licorice Root Extract

Cautions for Use :

Fragrance

How to Use :

After cleansing, apply a generous layer across the face, avoiding the eye area & lips. Leave on for 20mins until dry completely and rinse off with lukewarm water. Recommended using 1 -2 times a week.

This wash-off mask is loved so much by Korean customers with its effectiveness in removing whitehead/blackhead and sebum control. Neem and Green Tea Water tighten pores, and natural green clay ingredients wash away impurities from the skin. With Kaolin and Bentonite, It helps to remove blackheads and whiteheads by adsorbing sebum. However, the natural red bean powder grains are slightly larger, it can be rough for sensitive skin.

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Best Nose Pack: CNP Anti-Pore Blackhead Clear Kit

• CNP Anti-Pore Blackhead Clear Kit
• 10 set
• $22 ~ $27
• Skin Type: dry, normal, combination, oily, acne-prone

Ingredient Callouts :

#alcohol-free #essential oil-free #paraben-free #sulfate-free

Key Ingredients :

• Soothing: Witch Hazel Water
• Hydrating: Arginine, Sodium Hyaluronate

Cautions for Use :

None (All-green-level ingredients)

How to Use :

1. Wash your face with lukewarm water.
2. Apply ‘Blackhead Clear Mask 1’ to the area of your nose for about ten minutes.
3. Once the mask has dried, remove it.
4. Use a Q-tip to remove any sebum and blackheads on the nose.
5. Now, apply ‘Pore Tightening Mask 2’ to compress the pores for about ten minutes.
6. Remove mask 2 and let the soothing gel be absorbed into your skin for a supple feel to your face.

Try this 2-step anti pore blackhead remover specially designed for the nose. The natural ingredients of this amazing blackhead remover gently disintegrate the sebum and blackheads on the nose. The first mask on the nose will remove the sebum and blackheads. And then the second mask has witch hazel extract to tighten the pores to stop any dirt from getting into your skin. Moreover, the second mask has Sodium Hyaluronate used to soothe and moisturize your skin for a soft texture. Also, it contains anti-irritant complex, Melissa Officials Leaf Extract, so that even people with sensitive skin can use it without having to worry about anything.

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What are Blackheads?

Blackheads form when our pores become blocked towards the surface of our skin. This mixture of trapped sebum and dead skin cells creates a small bump called a Comedone. In addition, If the skin on top of the bump stays closed It’s called a Whitehead (Closed Comedone). If not, and the bump is exposed to air, this oxidation causes the bump to turn dark. Therefore, forming what’s known as a Blackhead (Open Comedone).

How to get rid of blackheads on nose?

Throughout the years, the Skincare Industry has been flooded with misleading products that supposedly remove Blackheads instantly. Whilst, pore-strips, and physical peeling masks can be satisfying. They are often too harsh and usually, do more harm than good. What’s more, these products don’t make It clear how often they should be used and for which skin type they are suitable for. In the end, you end up over-stripping the skin and damaging the skin barrier.

Unfortunately, there is no sure way to remove blackheads completely in a short period of time. Your best option is to find gentler products that work by preventing and removing blackheads in the long run. The most foolproof method for removing blackheads and overall clearer skin is :

• First, Cleansing oil,
• Second, Chemical / Physical Exfoliation,
• Third, Skin Balancing. 

How do you get Blackheads?

With much debate, there are numerous factors that increase the chance of blackheads. More often than not, the culprit is anything that aids the excess production of sebum, lipid peroxidation (Thickened Sebum), mixed with a build-up of dead skin cells. Whether It be makeup dying out the skin, thus signaling it to produce more oil. Or also, the already dry skin that doesn’t know how to keep moisture and shed dead skin cells. Every skin-type poses the possibility of Clogged pores and Blackheads. 

Best Korean skincare products for blackheads

Cleansing Oil

Cleansing Oil is an amazing tool for Removing Blackheads and breaking down our thickened sebum. As you may know, water is not Oil-soluble, and therefore, water-based cleansers need surfactants to help bond to our sebum. An Oil cleanser, however, can help break down our existing sebum whilst also drawing the excess lipids out of our pores. 

Having said that, It’s important to find the right Cleansing oil for your specific Skin-type. Choosing the wrong oil or applying it incorrectly could potentially lead to more clogged pores or breakouts. It is also safe to note, that some skin can be sensitive towards natural oil so make sure to patch test a product beforehand. 

• For dry skin, opt for Oil cleansers high in oleic acids such as Avocado oil, Olive oil, Almond oil, Argan oil, Marula oil etc.
• For oily skin, opt for cleansers high in Linoleic acid such as Safflower oil, Sunflower oil, Hemp seed oil, Rosehip oil, Sea buckthorn oil etc..

HOW TO APPLY :

1. Firstly, apply 2-3 pumps onto dry skin and massage into the face for 30 seconds.
2. Next, add some warm water to emulsify the oil and massage again for another 30 seconds before washing off.
3. For Blackheads: Repeat this process but this time use 3-4 pumps of cleansing oil.
4. Now, massage oil into dry skin using a tool or hands, focusing on the specific areas with clogged pores for 1-2 minutes.
5. Then, add warm water to emulsify the oil before washing off.
6. (Optional for Dry skin) Lastly, Use an additional gel/water based cleanser to remove any leftover residue.

iUNIK Calendula Complete Cleansing Oil

iUNIK Calendula Complete Cleansing Oil

Ideal for normal, oily skin

200ml

Like most of IUNIK products, this cleansing oil has a very minimal ingredient list compared to most. In addition, It contains 5 main natural oils to both cleanse the skin whilst also moisturizing and protecting the skin barrier. Although the oil is thicker in consistency, It is easy to wash off and removes water-proof makeup and blackheads effectively for all skin types.

HIGHLIGHTED INGREDIENTS :

Sunflower seed oil, Canola oil, Jojoba seed oil

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Manyo Pure Cleansing Oil

Manyo Pure Cleansing Oil 200ml

Ideal for combination, oily skin

200ml

This is a great cleansing oil for people with Dryer skin. Its main ingredients are Soapberry oil and Olive oil which are effective for cleansing and removing blackheads. In addition, despite Its potentially heavy ingredients this cleansing oil is light-weight and washes off easily. Also, the active ingredient in this oil, Alpha-bisabolol brightens your skin

HIGHLIGHTED INGREDIENTS :

Olive oil, Argan oil, Tea Tree oil

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HANSKIN Cleansing Oil and BlackHead (PHA)

HANSKIN Cleansing Oil and BlackHead (PHA)

Ideal for combination, oily skin

300ml

I recommend this product for people with Oily or Combination oily skin. This product is extremely light-weight and does a great job controlling sebum and removing blackheads. Additionally, It removes makeup quickly without leaving residue. Having said that, This product contains fragrance which can be irritating, especially for the eyes. However, the smell is barely noticeable and because you are washing it off, It is less of a risk.

HIGHLIGHTED INGREDIENTS :

Jojoba seed oil, Tea Tree Leaf Oil, Olive Oil

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Exfoliator

For those who are sensitive to Cleansing oil or are looking for the next step to removing blackheads, exfoliation is the way to go. To begin, Exfoliating is the process in which we remove excess dead skin cells, sebum, and dirt aiding our skin turnover rate. What’s more, exfoliating helps prevent our pores from becoming clogged therefore decreasing our chance of blackheads.

There are two main types of exfoliation:

PHYSICAL EXFOLIATION

Firstly, Physical exfoliation. This includes Clay masks, Scrubs, Pore-strips, and Brushes, etc. This method is often much harsher and can give you quick yet temporary results. It is also recommended not to do often as It can easily damage the skin barrier. 

CHEMICAL EXFOLIATION

Secondly, is Chemical exfoliation. This includes AHAs, BHAs, and PHAs. This method is much gentler and works to prevent whilst giving long term results. 

Whilst AHAs and PHAs are good for exfoliating the top layer of skin. Like Cleansing oils, BHAs are also oil soluble. This means they penetrate deep within the pores targeting blackheads. 

COSRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid

COSRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid

Ideal for combination, oily skin

100ml

The Cosrx BHA power liquid is a cult favorite. Much like Its name It contains 4% BHA to dive deep into the pores clearing blackheads. Furthermore, It contains the added ingredient of niacinamide to help balance the skin. Nevertheless, This product can be irritating and should therefore be used less frequently until your skin builds up a tolerance. 

HIGHLIGHTED INGREDIENTS :

Willow bark water(BHA), Betaine Salicylate

HOW TO USE COSRX BHA BLACKHEAD POWER LIQUID :

After cleansing, apply a few pumps directly onto the skin or onto a cotton pad. I also like to saturate a cotton pad and use it as a pore mask for a few minutes. If it’s your first time using a BHA product, I recommend once a week in the beginning and then increase it more often.

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ROUNDLAB Dokdo Toner Pads

ROUNDLAB Dokdo Toner Pads

Ideal for combination, oily skin

70 pads

This is a great Daily exfoliator for all skin types to help prevent blocked pores. Not only does It chemically exfoliate using PHA but it also physically exfoliates using a gauze material. 

HIGHLIGHTED INGREDIENTS :

Sea Water, Sugar Cane extract, Gluconolactone(PHA)

HOW TO USE COSRX BHA BLACKHEAD POWER LIQUID :

After cleansing, swipe gently across the skin and tap in any excess product. You can also use this as a mask on specific areas like cheeks, forehead, and chin.

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INNISFREE Jeju Volcanic Clay Mousse Mask

INNISFREE Jeju Volcanic Clay Mousse Mask

Ideal for combination, oily skin

100ml

This product works by drawing the impurities in our pores to the surface of our skin. In addition, It Includes AHAs and BHAs to chemically exfoliate. Unlike most clay masks, this product isn’t overly stripping and Is very easy to wash off. 

HIGHLIGHTED INGREDIENTS :

Jeju volcanic clusters, Salicylic acid

HOW TO USE COSRX BHA BLACKHEAD POWER LIQUID :

After cleansing, apply an adequate amount all over the face or on troubled areas. Then leave on for 15minutes or until semi-dry before washing off. 

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Skinbalancing

After all the Cleansing and Exfoliating, It’s vital we deliver nutrients back into our skin. This will ensure our skin stays well balanced and will ultimately decrease our chance of forming new blackheads. These ingredients can differ from each skin type but generally, whether It’s Oily or Dry skin, they can all benefit from some extra hydration, anti-oxidants, and Sunscreen. 

Another way in which our pores become clogged is from lipid peroxidation. This is when our sebum becomes oxidized from either UV rays or environmental stressors. This consequently, makes our sebum thicker, therefore, becoming comedogenic. 

HYDRATION

Firstly, hydration. Adding hydration into your routine will ensure the skin stays well balanced and doesn’t overcompensate by creating more oil.

IUNIK Black Snail Restore Serum

IUNIK Black Snail Restore Serum

Ideal for combination, oily skin

50ml

The IUNIK Snail Repair Serum is a Game-changer. It’s excellent for all skin types and Includes 70% of Black snail secretion filtrate. Known as the ‘Korean retinol’ This product not only helps the skin retain moisture for a long period, It also helps brighten the skin and reduces signs of aging.

HIGHLIGHTED INGREDIENTS:

Snail secretion filtrate, Lactobacillus

HOW TO USE:

After toner, apply an adequate amount onto face and pat in.

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ANTI-OXIDANTS

Secondly, anti-oxidants. Anti-oxidants not only help fight against free-radicals, they are also known to slow down lipid peroxidation. 

Purito Deep Sea Pure Water Cream

Purito Deep Sea Pure Water Cream

Ideal for sensitive, dry, normal, combination, oily skin

50g

Following the name, Purito moisturizer is formulated with 60% of deep ocean water and seaweed extracts to keep skin moisturized and smooth. This is a gel-type cream that has fine molecules to penetrate deep into the skin. Not only It’s very affordable price point but it also super effective in replenishing dry skin and anti-wrinkle functional with Adenosine. Plus, 2% of Niacinamide helps skin complexion brighten.

HIGHLIGHTED INGREDIENTS:

Niacinamide, Adenosine, Salicornia Herbacea Extract

HOW TO USE:

After serum or essence, Apply coin-size amount onto hands and pat into skin.

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Some By Mi AHA-BHA-PHA 30Days Miracle Cream

Some By Mi AHA-BHA-PHA 30Days Miracle Cream

Ideal for combination, oily skin

This cream’s main ingredients are a super complex for blackheads and pore care, especially for acne-prone oily skin. Tea tree extract, known for its excellent antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects, gently cares for acne on the face. In addition, Cica Care (Madecassoside, Madecassic Acid, Asiaticoside, Asiatic Acid) is added to Centella Asiatica, which is well known for treating scars, to strengthen the weakened skin barrier and improve troubled skin. It is very suitable for acne-prone skin because it contains AHA, BHA, and PHA, which are well known to clean pores and help control sebum and suppress excessive oiliness.

HIGHLIGHTED INGREDIENTS:

• Anti-acne: Willow Bark Extract, Witch Hazel Extract
• Exfoliating: Capryloyl Salicylic Acid, Lactobionic Acid, Citric Acid
• Brightening: Turmeric Root Extract, Niacinamide
• Soothing: Centella Asiatica Extract, Green Tea Leaf Extract, Houttuynia Cordata Extract, Allantoin, Madecassoside, Asiaticoside

HOW TO USE:

After applying serum, apply a small amount onto hands and pat into the skin.

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SUNSCREEN

Last but not least, Sunscreen. This is another crucial step to prevent our sebum from becoming comedogenic.

KRAVE BEAUTY Beet shield 

Make p:rem UV Defense Me Daily Sun Fluid SPF 50 PA+++

Ideal for combination, oily skin

Physical + Chemical Sunscreen

150ml

This sunscreen is charged with Centella Asiatica Extract which is high in antioxidants ready to protect your skin from outdoor stressors. It’s an incredibly lightweight formula, that doesn’t leave a white cast or leave the skin feeling sticky. Not only Make Prem sun fluid is hypoallergenic based on carefully selected good ingredients that will make the skin healthier, but also it’s a vegan, cruelty-free, and eco-friendly package as a clean beauty product. However, if you have sensitive oily skin, test it before purchasing because chemical sunscreen ingredients can react to sensitive skin sometimes.

HIGHLIGHTED INGREDIENTS:

• UV Protection: Titanium Dioxide, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, Ethylhexyl Triazone, Diethylhexyl Butamido Triazone
• Soothing: Sunflower Seed Oil, Centella Asiatica Extract, Beta-glucan

HOW TO USE:

After moisturizer, apply a generous amount onto the face. It is recommended to wait at least 15 minutes before going out into the sun.

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