What's up, pore boys and girls? It's been a while since I've taken care of them, no wonder they're so enlarged and blackened. I don't want to use my fingers to rub and probe. A safe and reliable pore aspirator will do the trick! (You've heard that you should talk to and listen to your skin, right?) Seriously, pores and blackheads can feel like a mystery. We don't know what's in our pores, and pores have a mind of their own. There are products out there, like the cult favorite Biore Pore Strips (open in new tab) ($6) and various acids that exfoliate the skin, reduce pore size (open in new tab), and are specifically made to remove pores and blackheads. (Open in new tab) But strips and salicylic acid aside, the next skin care step I am not playing with is a pore vacuum, also known as a blackhead removal vacuum.

Pore vacuums are designed to remove blackheads as well as excess oil and buildup that clog pores. Most pore aspirators also have various modes that lift the skin while allowing the product to penetrate deeper into the moisturizing barrier. Dermatologists consider pore vacuum cleaners safe as long as the correct settings are used and the product is not allowed to remain on one part of the face for an extended period of time.

Before using the cleansing device, properly cleanse the skin and prep the pores, and if a face steamer is available, pull it out to open the pores further.

If your pores are extremely clogged, skip the vacuum and go straight to the dermatologist. According to Joshua Zeichner, M.D., "The thing is that it takes a very skilled professional, like a reputable dermatologist, to properly remove clogged pores. Using the wrong pressure or going in at the wrong angle can easily disrupt the integrity of the follicle and lead to inflammation and breakouts."

Ahead, our favorite pore aspirator.