The Best Pore Strips For Sensitive Skin

Pores for days? Most people reach for astringent and rely on the power of pore strips to remove acne-casuing dirt and grime, but it turns out not all strips are created equal. Here are the best pore strips for sensitive skin, including alternatives that will do the job just as well.

Tons of people prefer pore strips to clean their skin because there's real satisfaction in pulling a strip off and seeing that it actually worked. And by worked, I mean, the strip is full of gunk and grime that was once in your face. Both gross and glorious! If you've never used one before, listen up. The best way to apply a pore strip is by first opening your pores with heat. Typically, you do this in the shower, but you can also apply a warm washrag to your face for a few minutes before patting it mostly dry and applying the strip. Keeping your skin slightly damp for application will help the strip adhere to your skin.

The only problem with pore strips is how harsh they can be on our skin. The lifting and pulling of our skin can cause problems, especially for those with sensitive complexions. Pores are left clean, but open, so prime real estate for infection. For sensitive skin, this whole act may cause irritation. No matter how careful you are, or your skin type, pore strips can cause redness, irritation, and peeling. Yuck! But that doesn't mean you have to banish them all from your beauty regimen.

Here are the best pore strips — and strip alternatives — for those of you with sensitive skin.

1. Bioré Deep Cleansing Pore Strips

Bioré Deep Cleansing Pore Strip, $8, Amazon

These strips are less aggressive than others, so perfect for ultra sensitive skin that has mild acne or pore problems.

2. Boscia Pore Purifying Black Strips

Boscia Pore Purifying Black Strips, $28, Sephora

Natural ingredients, like black clay, are effective but gentle — perfect for those with sensitive skin!

3. GLAMGLOW SuperMud Clearing Treatment

GLAMGLOW SuperMud Clearing Treatment, $50, Amazon

I know this isn't a strip, but these masks are incredible for the super dry and sensitive skin havers that needs help fighting black heads. Think of it as a strip you can apply anywhere.

4. Down to The Pore Blackhead Banishing Pore Strips

Down to The Pore Blackhead Banishing Pore Strips, $14, Amazon

Another gentle strip with natural ingredients, like Tea Tree Oil, to soften and clean skin.

5. Tea Tree Oil

DoTERRA Tea Tree Oil, $21, Amazon

Whoa, wait. Oil for your acne prone face? Actually, tea tree oil is the best antibacterial for your face, so it's perfect for people with acne. Because it is an oil, it won't dry out and irritate your skin, which can cause even more acne. Tea tree oil is just as effective as a strip, without the irritating side affects.

6. Yes to Grapefruit Pore Perfection Paper Mask

Yes to Grapefruit Pore Perfection Paper Mask, $23, Amazon

Think of this as a pore strip for your entire face. Yet, this is 95 percent natural and features a ton of vitamin C to keep your face bright.

7. Boots Tea Tree & Witch Hazel Nose Pore Strips

Boots Tea Tree & Witch Hazel Nose Pore Strips, $4, Walgreens

The tea tree oil will help strip your pores, while the witch hazel will work to calm them down.

Image: @bioreus/Instagram