I've Tried Everything, and These 5 Pore Strips Act Like a Magic Wand to Erase Blackheads

Woman wearing black oval sunglasses, red lipstick, and gold earrings and rings.

(Image credit: @peonylim)

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

2. Best Budget: Starface Lift Off Pore Strips

3. Best for Sensitive Skin: Peach Slices Nose Pore Patches

4. Best Multipurpose: Rael Miracle Patch Blackhead Control

5. Best for Oily Skin: Bioré Charcoal Deep Cleansing Pore Strips

Marie Lodi
Freelance Beauty and Fashion Writer/Editor

Marie has covered beauty, fashion, and lifestyle for almost 15 years. She contributes to the beauty section here at Who What Wear. Previously, she was the Looks Editor for Bust Magazine, built the beauty vertical at HelloGiggles as its beauty editor, and was a founding staff writer at Rookie mag, giving fashion advice to teens. Her bylines have appeared in The Cut, Allure, Glamour, The Hollywood Reporter, and more. She was born and raised in Southern California and is based in L.A. Marie is a self-proclaimed costume design nerd and a co-host of Makeover Montage, a podcast about fashion in film and costume design. You'll see her writing about her beauty obsessions: red lipstick, winged eyeliner, pink hair, nail art, and skincare for people over 40. When she's not working, she's playing with her dog, Gnocchi, and writing her style newsletter, Overdressed.