We Tested 14 Best Pore Strips and here Are 6 That Really Eliminate Blackheads
Why Using the Best Pore Strips Can Improve Your Skincare Routine
No matter how meticulous your skincare routine is, blackheads can still appear. Although it may be tempting to squeeze them out yourself, this can damage your skin and push the blackhead deeper into the pore. Instead of picking and prodding, using the best nose strips is a satisfying and effective way to de-gunk your pores and keep your skin clear.
When used properly, the best nose strips are a safe and efficient method for removing blackheads instantly. They are gentler compared to using pressure and your fingers, according to Dr. Rachel Nazarian, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. Plus, the visual satisfaction of seeing all the gunk they extract is undeniably gratifying. To ensure you select the best options, we consulted dermatologists on how to choose and use pore strips safely. We then tested various products in our lab and at home, evaluating each on ease of use, comfort, and effectiveness.
Whether you’re looking to enhance your routine or prep for a special event, here are the best nose strips for the job.
Our Top Picks
Mighty Patches for nose pores from Hero Cosmetics – XL Hydrocolloid Pimples
Best Overall: Hero Cosmetics Mighty Patch Nose
$17 at Amazon
Description: Hero’s Mighty Patch is more like a pimple patch than a traditional pore strip. It uses medical-grade hydrocolloid to absorb oil gently, helping to reduce pimples and whiteheads. It provides a smooth finish with minimal discomfort. Some testers found the application slightly tricky due to its thin and sticky nature.
If memories of painful pore strips have left your nose as red as Rudolph, let Hero’s Mighty Patch alter your perspective. The item resembles the brand’s pimple patches more than a standard pore strip: Instead of employing adhesive to extract blackheads, it utilizes medical-grade hydrocolloid to softly absorb oil. It also aids in shrinking the size of pimples, making the strips an effective remedy for whiteheads as well.
You can be confident that you’ll experience the same satisfying feeling that accompanies a classic pore strip — the patch slowly turns white as it soaks up oil. “Our tester, who rated the product perfectly, remarked that her skin felt extremely smooth after removing it.” “It causes much less pain than other pore strips, and once applied, it feels simply like a bandaid.” Similar to a genuine bandaid, the strips are quite thin and adhesive, making them somewhat challenging for our tester to apply.
A previous writer for us, Lauren Rearick, also tested the product and discovered it was an excellent fix for her oily nose, stating, “My nose is famous for being oily, and after using the sticker for a whole week, I have surely seen a change in this skin area.” “I actually got several compliments.”
Best Splurge pore strips: Peace Out Pores Oil-Absorbing Nose Strips
$19 at Amazon
Description: These strips are ideal for large pores and provide both cleaning and minimizing effects. Featuring hydrocolloid polymer technology and vitamins A and DMAE, they work best when left on overnight for a deep clean. Our testers noticed significant reductions in oil and blackheads even after a few minutes of use.
If you have noticeable pores, choose these Peace Out the best pore strips that will effectively clean and reduce their visibility. The strips incorporate hydrocolloid polymer technology that draws out oil, dirt, and bacteria from within pores, along with the vitamin B-derived substance DMAE and vitamin A, which collaborate to inhibit additional clogging. The package includes eight strips — four designed for the nose and four for different areas of the face.
In contrast to other strips that operate in just a few minutes, the brand suggests using them overnight (or for a minimum of six hours at once) for a thorough clean. After just a few minutes of using these in the lab, our tester noticed a marked decrease in oil and blackheads, leading her to wonder how effective they might be after a full night — and they remained gentle. “Our tester mentions that there was no irritation or redness, and the removal process was simple and painless.”
Another tester applied the strips for the suggested duration and was amazed. “Following four to six hours of use, the strip delicately comes off, unveiling all the disgusting debris that has been extracted from your pores.” “It only requires a single use to see a notable change.”
Shape: Nose and Face | Number of Strips: 8 | Added Ingredients: Vitamin A, Hydrocolloid Polymer Technology
Best Oversized: TonyMoly Tako best Pore strips One Shot Nose Pack
$4 at Amazon
Description: The TonyMoly nose strip’s oversized shape covers more surface area, including between your eyebrows. It removes impurities effectively and includes a marine root-up complex for added nourishment and soothing. Testers appreciated its ability to clear both the nose and forehead area, though some residue was noted.
This TonyMoly pore strip is capable of unclogging more pores simultaneously than the others on this list due to its distinct oversized design that encompasses the entire nose, even the space between the eyebrows, which tends to attract blackheads from excess oil. “I tried this strip after testing another nose strip that primarily targeted the forehead, but upon examining both the strip and my nose and forehead afterward, it eliminated a significant amount of the oily residue the previous pore strip missed,” our tester notes. “My nose felt extremely smooth after applying this strip, and it certainly appeared more refined.”
In addition to eliminating impurities in only 15 minutes, the strip includes a marine root-up complex that aids in nourishing, calming, and minimizing pores. Our tester observed that some residue remained afterward, but it was simple to remove, uncovering soft and smooth skin. She also adored how charming the strip appeared (like all TonyMoly items) — it creates an adorable octopus on your face — turning pore cleansing into a much more enjoyable experience.
Shape: Nose and forehead | Number of Strips: 1 | Added Ingredients: Dead Sea Salt, Taurine, Black Peat Water
Best for Entire Face: Formula 10.0.6 Down To the Pore Strips Pack
$8 at Amazon
Description: This set is perfect for the nose, chin, and forehead. It contains clay and witch hazel to absorb oil and shrink pores. Testers found these strips comfortable and effective, though clearer instructions for forehead placement would be beneficial.
Blackheads aren’t limited to just the nose; they can appear anywhere on the face — which is why we appreciate the practicality of this kit designed for the nose, chin, and forehead. The strips include clay and witch hazel, which, as noted by board-certified dermatologist Dr. Kavita Mariwalla, are two components that assist in soaking up oil and reducing pore size.
Since you will apply these products across your entire face, they ought to feel pleasant. “I’m accustomed to strips that are rigid and uneasy, but I would describe this as a more compassionate, softer pore strip,” states our tester. “There was no irritation, tightness, or redness.” Certain pore strips might leave you feeling like a mummy, but our tester managed to speak and express emotions while wearing them. She faced a bit of difficulty determining the proper position on the forehead — the guidelines could be more explicit — but that was her sole issue.
Shape: Nose, Chin, and Forehead | Number of Strips: 8 | Added Ingredients: Witch Hazel, Clay, Charcoal
Best for Acne: Patchology Breakout Box 3-in-1 Acne Treatment Kit
$20 at Amazon
Description: This kit includes three nose strips along with hydrocolloid and salicylic acid dots for treating acne. It provides soothing effects and reduces inflammation while removing blackheads. Testers found it comfortable and effective for both blackhead and acne treatment.
This kit is ideal for individuals who are just as worried about acne as they are about blackheads. Along with three best pore strips for nose, you receive 24 hydrocolloid dots designed to draw out pus from whiteheads and 24 salicylic acid dots to eliminate clogged pores and minimize inflammation. The stickers merged with our tester’s skin, stopping her from touching and picking at imperfections. “I experienced a breakout when I first tried these.” “After approximately three and a half hours, the dot had taken in all of the sebum in the area,” our tester states. “I believe it would have taken in the sebum in the center of the whitehead if I had kept the dot on for the suggested six hours or overnight.”
The pore strip worked effectively, feeling so comfortable on her nose that our tester put her glasses back on and continued working during the 10-minute wait. During that period, the combination of witch hazel, clay, and aloe calmed and minimized her pores. She suggests keeping the strips on for a longer time, about 15 minutes, to eliminate even more blackheads.
Shape: Nose and Face | Number of Strips: 51 | Added Ingredients: Hydrocolloid, Salicylic Acid, Tea Tree, Charcoal, Witch Hazel, Clay, Aloe
Best Drugstore: Starface Lift Off Pore Strips
$6 at Amazon
Description: Starface pore strips are affordable and effective at unclogging pores while controlling oil and calming skin with aloe vera. Testers were impressed with how well they performed and appreciated the cute yellow design.
Our testers enjoyed these Starface best pore strips as they effectively unclogged pores and removed blackheads swiftly, while the aloe vera-infused strips also soothed the skin and helped regulate oil production. “Our tester comments, ‘You can tell it’s running, yet there’s no discomfort on your face.'” “It may not be the most comfortable during takeoff, but it visibly extracts blackheads as it works.”
Additionally, you can purchase an eight-pack at your neighborhood pharmacy for under the price of a meal. Rearick was likewise delighted to find that the strips did not irritate her sensitive skin with redness or flakiness, noting, “The sole side effect I had was pure astonishment, as the strip removed a lot of debris that had previously clogged my pores.” Oh, and we can’t stop admiring the bright yellow design either.
Shape: Nose | Number of Strips: 8 | Added Ingredients: Aloe Vera, Witch Hazel
What to Keep in Mind
Ingredients: Pore strips work similarly, but some include added ingredients like vitamin A or witch hazel to enhance their effects. Witch hazel soothes irritated skin, while vitamin A aids in cell turnover. For sensitive skin, choose strips with hydrocolloid to absorb oil gently.
Charcoal: Often found in pore strips, charcoal is believed to draw out oil and impurities, though evidence of its effectiveness is limited. While charcoal may not be harmful, its benefits remain uncertain.
Size & Shape: Most strips are designed for the nose, but there are larger options that cover areas between the eyebrows or other parts of the face. Choose strips that fit your specific needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How are blackheads formed?
Blackheads occur when dead skin cells and oils clog the pores. Exposure to air causes these blockages to oxidize and turn black. People with higher oil production or specific skincare routines may be more prone to blackheads.
How do I use a pore strip?
Apply the strip to clean skin, wait the recommended time, and then gently peel it off. For optimal results, pre-steam your face to loosen debris. Some strips work better on wet skin, so follow specific product instructions.
Are pore strips safe to use?
Pore strips can be a good alternative to squeezing blackheads, but they shouldn’t be used too frequently. They effectively remove comedonal plugs without causing wider pores or broken blood vessels. Use them once every two weeks if you struggle with picking at blackheads.
Can pore strips make your pores look bigger?
No, pore strips don’t enlarge pores, but ineffective ones may seem to make pores fuller. While they help clear existing blackheads, they don’t prevent future clogging.
What can I use instead of pore strips to clear my pores?
Consider chemical exfoliants like salicylic acid or gentler AHAs, such as glycolic acid, for daily exfoliation. Regular use of these products can keep pores clear and reduce the need for pore strips. For professional treatment, regular facials can also address blackheads effectively.
Why Shop With Us
We researched and tested the best nose strips available and consulted several dermatologists, including Dr. Rachel Nazarian, Dr. Robin Schaffran, Dr. Kavita Mariwalla, and Dr. Sandra Lee. Their insights helped us identify the most effective pore strips and how they work for different skin types.