Severe acne should merit a trip to the dermatologist, but a few blackheads may respond to an over-the-counter treatment. When picking a product, the method of delivery, be it cream, toner, or face wash, does not matter as much as the active ingredient. The New York Times notes that you should also look for a product labeled noncomedogenic which ensures that the product will not clog pores.

Salicylic Acid Products

Salicylic acid products treat blackheads by extending the amount of time skin cells require to detach from the hair follicle and potentially clog the pore. According to the Mayo Clinic, there is some evidence that use of salicylic acid may cause existing blackheads to slowly disappear.

Salicylic acid is available in low concentration for over the counter acne products, ranging from .5 to 2 percent. You may also find salicylic acid in do it yourself face peels, which offer a modest approximation of a chemical peel you might receive at a dermatologist’s office. A facial peel will help clear up blackheads, although sunscreen should be used due to increased sun sensitivity.

Benzoyl Peroxide Products

Benzoyl peroxide products are known for killing the bacteria that causes other types of acne. However, the Mayo Clinic notes that there is evidence that benzoyl peroxide also prevents skin shedding within the pore, which breaks the cycle that creates blackheads. It is important when purchasing a product that contains this active ingredient to choose one that is specific to the part of the body you wish to treat because the percentage of the active ingredient varies from 2.5 to 10 percent. Benzoyl peroxide can cause dry skin, peeling and a burning sensation, so start with the lowest dose available.

Sulfur Products

Some products that treat blackheads may contain sulfur. Often combined with another active ingredient, products containing sulfur work by removing both excess oil and skin cells that create the blackhead. Although the side effects are usually fairly mild, often causing dry skin, products that contain sulfur may have a distinctive and unpleasant smell.

Glycolic Acid

Glycolic acid products are part of the alpha hydroxy acid family, a group of acids derived from fruits. These products lessen inflammation in addition to reducing potentially pore-clogging skin cells. While most acne products are not recommended for use during pregnancy, the New York Times notes that glycolic acid is occasionally recommended by dermatologists to pregnant women. Of course, you should check with your dermatologist before using any product while pregnant.