Pores on the face can easily become clogged with environmental debris such as dirt or pollution, as well as the oil from the skin. This can cause dark spots, blemishes, acne or blackheads along the skin. While acne and other issues can be treated with the appropriate cleansers and medications, many find it difficult to rid their face of blackheads. Pore strips are frequently used to rid the pore of this material so the irritating spots are no longer visible.

What Are Pore Strips?

When the pores become clogged, blackheads will appear on the nose, chin and forehead. People use pore strips to help pull this unwanted material out of the pores. This is very similar to the wax strips used to remove body hair. Strips have one side coated with an adhesive. This is applied to the skin, binding with the oil that has clogged the offending pores. When the strip dries and adheres to this material, it can be pulled away to remove this dirt.

Harsh commercial strips can be harsh on the skin. Homemade pore strips can be less harsh on the skin and provide lasting results. Watch how to make a pore strip with milk and unflavored gelatine:

How to Use Pore Strips

1. Clean, Steam and Apply

When applying a strip to the nose, you will need to steam the face to ensure the pores are open. Wet the skin and apply the strip in the desired area. Press it down firmly to ensure that it is adhered properly. Wait approximately 10-15 minutes to make sure the strip has had time to dry and adhere to the particles that need to be removed.

2. Peel

Once the strip has dried, you may start to peel it off the face. Begin by peeling the strip away at the sides instead of pulling off the middle. Read the instructions on your package to determine how quickly you should remove the strip to ensure that the blackhead material will stick to the strip.

3. Additional Help

Pore strips can be used once a week to remove unnecessary materials. If it appears that you will require additional assistance in removing blackheads, spoon extractors, suction guns or skin care products from a dermatologist can be helpful.

4. Precautions

Those that have sensitive skin should invest in a brand that can easily be removed to avoid unnecessary irritation. Products that contain ingredients like tea tree oil can also help soothe the irritation that pore strips may cause.

Negative Sides of Using Pore Strips

Side Effects on Skin

While pore strips help to clear away blackheads, they can also cause irritation that will need to be addressed. Some argue that the pulling sensation used to remove the blackhead will also pull the pore open, leaving them vulnerable to infection, thus increasing your risk of breakouts. This can also cause the enlargement of pores due to the constant pulling sensation.

Harsh pore strips can cause a slight burn to the top dermal layer of the skin. They can also remove essential oils that protect the skin from damage.

Not Permanent Cure for Blackheads

Pore strips are used to treat blackheads once they have appeared, but they will not help you avoid developing them in the first place. If pore strips are used without treating your acne and practicing proper hygiene, it will not help the appearance of your skin. Over-using these strips can put excessive stress on your face and can lead to scarring of the tissue. At best they should be used sparingly when you are hoping to get a clean slate to start addressing your skin issues.