Blackhead removal strips have gained popularity among skincare buffs because they’re oddly satisfying to use and also help get rid of all the dirt, grime and buildup that clog the pores. And while you may not exactly know how they work, chances are, you always have a pack of these strips handy in your cupboard.
However, it’s always good to know a little more about the product you’re applying on your face. Hence, we went ahead and did a little digging to find out how blackhead removal strips actually work. Scroll down to read what we discovered…
How exactly do you get blackheads?
Blackheads are formed when there is clogging at the opening of a hair follicle on the skin. They can get filled with dead skin cells and oil if not cleaned regularly. They turn black after coming in contact with air and oxidising into a gritty or textured build-up, giving them the name blackhead.
How do pore strips work?
Much like band-aids, pore strips work to get rid of the top layer of dead skin cells and blackheads by pulling it out with a powerful adhesive. That is why you can also spot tiny hair stuck to your strips when you pull them out. While they can get rid of anything present on the top layer of your skin (hair, dirt and oil), they won't stop the occurrence of blackheads in the first place. They are a temporary and superficial fix without any long term benefits.
Do they remove blackheads?
It isn't all black and white when it comes to the effectiveness of pore strips in removing blackheads. It largely depends on how you use them. For example, if you are using it without wetting your nose with warm water, the pore strip won’t stick and give you none of the benefits promised by it. You also need to leave them on for at least 15-20 minutes to let the adhesive stick to all the gunk on your nose.
If you follow directions, nose strips can usually get rid of blackheads and make your pores appear smaller. This is just a temporary fix, as blackheads can very well come back if you don't have the habit of scrubbing regularly. Go over your nose and other affected areas with the St. Ives Fresh Skin Apricot Scrub to give your skin a proper cleanse and to avoid the appearance of blackheads in the first place!
Written by Sumona Bose on May 07, 2020
Sumona Bose is a writer, skincare junkie and a self-professed makeup connoisseur. Equipped with a Master's degree in Fashion Management and over 3 years of experience writing in the beauty and fashion space, her passion for learning new things has no bounds. Working closely with dermatologists, beauty excerpts, makeup artists and hairstylists, she brings you the best of all things beauty. From trending skincare ingredients to makeup looks that help you slay, she manages to bring something new (and vital!) to our readers every single time. Her hobbies include home workouts, watching foreign films and binge-watching makeover shows!