Blackheads are a type of acne known as open comedones. These small, dark spots develop when the opening of hair follicles become blocked by dead skin cells, oil and bacteria, says the Mayo Clinic. Blackheads got their name due to the fact that the plugs in the hair follicles appear dark. A number of tools are available to help safely extract blackheads without irritating or harming your skin.

Blackhead Extractor With Lancet

The most widely used blackhead extractor tool is called the blackhead extractor with lancet, according to the Acne Talks website. On one end of this device is a sharp lancet that is used to make a hole in the blackhead. The extractor is located on the other end to be pressed done on the comedone to push out the debris. This blackhead removal tool comes in various sizes. It may have a gold-plated finish or titanium coating, says the Blackheads Guide website.

Double Spoon Blackhead Extractor

A double spoon blackhead extractor may be more effective for large blackheads, says the Acne Talks website. This blackhead removal tool has two spoon-shaped ends. The larger spoon has several holes in varying sizes while the smaller spoon on the opposite end has one large hole for extraction. The spoon is used to place pressure on the comedone until dirt and other debris is forced gently through the pore of the skin.

Blackhead Removal Strips

Blackhead removal strips are also available. These tape-like strips are designed to strip away the debris that's contained inside blackheads. Removal strips are typically applied to wet skin, allowed to dry for about 10 minutes and then removed, according to the Pioneering Health website. The dirt and debris from the blackhead is supposed to be transferred from your skin to the strip.

Tissues

Blackheads may be safely removed by using your fingers and tissues. This simple removal method consists of placing your tissue-covered fingers on the sides of the comedone and slowly pushing until the debris comes out. The Pioneer Health website recommends applying steam or a warm compress over the blackhead for a few minutes before the extraction. This will open your pores and allow the debris to leave your skin more easily.