This may sound controversial and ridiculous, but I have to admit that I’m not the biggest fan of it. holeYes, they are necessary for survival, but why do they have to be so large and influential? My nose, in particular, is heaven with large pores and ground zero for blackheads. The best nose strips work like little miracle workers, clearing out those blackheads and getting all the gunk out. (gentle reminder: pores can’t actually shrinkBut good skin care can reduce their appearance.)
I’m old enough to remember when pore strips were the hottest thing, so they make me feel nostalgic for the ’90s. I clearly remember the first time I experienced that disgusting but satisfying moment of peeling off a piece and examining the little forest of debris left behind. Pore strips sometimes go haywire, but when used correctly and sparingly, they can deal with clogged pores and oily accumulation along with a proper exfoliating routine.
Pore strip technology has also improved over the years, as have the options available. There are products that specifically target certain skin types or contain beneficial ingredients, and they are available in large and small budgets. Ahead, you’ll find a list of five pore strips that my big pores know about.
Best pore strips at a glance
1. Best Overall: Hero Cosmetics Mighty Patch Nose
Hero Cosmetics
mighty patch nose
professional: Traps dirt and absorbs oil overnight
with: Some reviewers complain that it doesn’t fit their nose perfectly
Type: Sheet
Main components: hydrocolloid
This is not your average pore strip, which is a big reason why it tops my list. Hero Cosmetics took its cult-favorite pimple patch technology and turned it into a nose strip. Rich in hydrocolloid, these strips gently absorb oil and impurities while reducing irritation.
Customer Reviews: “These patches really work! I leave it on overnight, and in the morning, it’s filled with the gooey substance coming out of my clogged pores. My pores go away for 2 weeks or so before I decide to apply another patch. Stays clear longer than that. Very happy with this purchase and will be buying these instead of any blackhead strips from now on.”
2. Best Budget: Starface Lift Off Pore Strips
starface
lift pore strips
professional: stylish and affordable
with: Not as heavy as other punch straps
Type: Sheet
Main Ingredients: Aloe Vera, Witch Hazel, and Allantoin
When it comes to skin care that’s both super beautiful and functional, Starface always delivers. These yellow smiley facial pores are as adorable as they are impressive. While they may not be as heavy-duty as others, they still get dirt and oil out of your pores, and you can’t beat that price!
Customer Reviews: “I was introduced to these when I got these as a gift. After using them, I immediately repurchased them! So many pore strips feel like they’re tearing your skin. These starface noses are a mess Highly recommend as well as removal!”
3. Best for sensitive skin: Peach slices, nose patch
peach slices
nose patch patch
professional: Non-drying and gentle for all skin types
with: Some people have trouble keeping the bandage on
Type: Sheet
Main components: hydrocolloid
For my friends with sensitive skin, these are the pore bars you’ll want in your arsenal. Like other products from Peach Slice (and sister brand Peach & Lily), these pore strips are great for sensitive skin yet still effective. They won’t leave your skin feeling raw, and they’re made with hydrocolloid to draw out dirt.
Customer Reviews: “I have regular skin and don’t get acne that often, but my nose has noticeable pores and feels rough sometimes. When using it for the first time, only small white spots But my skin felt soft and smooth and stayed that way for a week. My pores are no longer visible.
4. Best Multi-Purpose: Rael Miracle Patch Blackhead Control
royal
miracle patch blackhead control
Pro: Treats clogged pores in three different ways through K-Beauty technology
with: Some users find the black cotton swab unnecessary
Type: Sheet
Main Ingredients: Jeju mugwort extract, peppermint extract, and succinic acid
This is basically the king of pore strips – it has a three-step system that’s serious business and great for anyone who wants to deal with congested pores in some way. The three-step system comes with a nose strip for those pesky nose blackheads, cotton swabs to remove impurities, and another nose strip sheet that contains calming mugwort extract.
Customer Reviews: “After spending $$$ on cheap and high-end stuff, I finally found something that works! Hated the white filaments on my nose every time. Since pregnancy, I’ve been afraid of anything irritating.” Can’t use it, or it will dry out or break out my skin It’s very effective, easy to use, pores are cleared!”
5. Best for Oily Skin: Biore Charcoal Deep Cleansing Pore Strips
Biore
Charcoal Deep Cleansing Pore Strips
Pro: controls excess oil
with: It contains menthol, which some people do not like
Type: Sheet
Main components: charcoal
Biore is practically the OG of pore strips, and its charcoal-infused option is a must-have for those with oily and combination skin. Activated charcoal works like a magnet for blackheads and clogged pores, drawing out even the deepest dirt.
Customer Reviews: “I found these pore strips to be very effective. They really work on my skin, helping to remove blackheads and control oil, which is great. They are easy to use, and after each use The deep cleansing power seems satisfying. Overall, I like how they leave my skin feeling clean and refreshed, and the charcoal makes a noticeable difference.”
