This may sound controversial and ridiculous, but I have to admit that I’m not the biggest fan of pores. Yes, they’re essential to live, but why must they be so large and in charge? My nose, in particular, is a big-pore paradise and ground zero for blackheads. The best nose strips act like little miracle workers, purging those blackheads and getting out all the gunk. (Gentle reminder: Pores cannot actually shrink, but good skincare can reduce their appearance.)
I’m old enough to remember when pore strips were the hottest thing, so they give me total late-’90s nostalgia. I vividly recall the first time I experienced that gross yet satisfying moment of peeling one off and examining the tiny forest of debris left behind. Pore strips get a bum rap sometimes, but when used correctly and sparingly, they can tackle clogged pores and oily buildup alongside a proper exfoliating routine.
Pore strip technology has also improved over the years, including the options out there. There are ones that specifically target certain skin types or contain beneficial ingredients, and they available for budgets big and small. Ahead, you’ll find a list of five pore strips that my big pores swear by.
The Best Pore Strips at a Glance
1. Best Overall: Hero Cosmetics Mighty Patch Nose
Hero Cosmetics
Mighty Patch Nose
Pros: Traps gunk and absorbs oil overnight
Con: Some reviewers complain that it doesn’t lay completely over their nose
Type: Sheet
Key ingredient: Hydrocolloid
This isn’t your average pore strip, which is a big reason why it’s at the top of my list. Hero Cosmetics took its cult-favorite pimple patch technology and turned it into a nose strip. Packed with hydrocolloid, these strips gently absorb oil and impurities while minimizing irritation.
Customer review: “These patches really work! I leave it on overnight, and in the morning, it is filled with cloudy stuff from my dirty pores. My nose pores will stay clean for 2 weeks or more before I decide to do another patch. Very happy with this purchase and I will be buying these from now on instead of any blackhead strips.”
2. Best Budget: Starface Lift Off Pore Strips
Starface
Lift Off Pore Strips
Pros: Stylish and affordable
Con: Not as heavy-duty as other pore strips
Type: Sheet
Key ingredients: Aloe vera, witch hazel, and allantoin
When it comes to skincare that’s both super cute and functional, Starface always delivers. These yellow smiley face pore strips are as adorable as they are effective. While they may not be as heavy-duty as other ones, they still lift away dirt and oil from your pores, and you can’t beat that price!
Customer review: “I got introduced to these when I got them as a gift. After using, I immediately repurchased! So many pore strips feel like they’re tearing off your skin. These Starface ones are much more gentle while still removing the nose gunk. Highly recommend!”
3. Best for Sensitive Skin: Peach Slices Nose Pore Patches
Peach Slices
Nose Pore Patches
Pros: Nondrying and gentle for all skin types
Con: Some have issues keeping the strip on
Type: Sheet
Key ingredient: Hydrocolloid
For my friends with sensitive skin, these are the pore strips you want in your arsenal. Like other products by Peach Slices (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 pull out the nastiness.
Customer review: “I tend to stay to a skin routine and don’t often get acne, but my nose has noticeable pores and feels kind of rough sometimes. The first time using it, only the tiny patches of white were noticeable. But my skin felt so soft and smooth and clean and it stayed that way for a week. My pores are no longer visible. Highly recommend.”
4. Best Multipurpose: Rael Miracle Patch Blackhead Control
Rael
Miracle Patch Blackhead Control
Pro: Hits clogged pores three different ways through K-beauty technology
Con: Some users find the black cotton swab unnecessary
Type: Sheet
Key ingredients: JeJu mugwort extract, peppermint extract, and succinic acid
This is basically the king of pore strips—it has a three-step system that is serious business and good for anyone who wants to tackle congested pores any way possible. The three-step system comes with a nose strip for those pesky nose blackheads, cotton swabs to wipe away impurities, and another nose strip sheet that has the calming mugwort extract infused in it.
Customer review: “After I have spent $$$ cheap and high-end stuff, I finally found something that works! Hated the white filaments on my nose every time. Since pregnancy, I cannot use anything irritating, or it will dry up my skin or break out. Found this one very effective, easy to use, pores are clean!”
5. Best for Oily Skin: Bioré Charcoal Deep Cleansing Pore Strips
Bioré
Charcoal Deep Cleansing Pore Strips
Pro: Controls excess oil
Con: Contains menthol, which some people don’t like
Type: Sheet
Key ingredient: Charcoal
Bioré is practically the OG of pore strips, and its charcoal-infused option is a must for those with oily and combination skin. The activated charcoal acts like a magnet to blackheads and clogged pores, drawing out even the deepest grime.
Customer review: “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’re easy to use, and the deep cleansing power feels satisfying after each use. Overall, I like how they leave my skin feeling clean and refreshed, and the charcoal makes a noticeable difference.”
