Biore strips are famously known for their satisfying ability to unclog pores and remove blackheads with a simple rip of the bandage. Yet there is still a lot of confusion about how Biore strips work and how effective and safe they are for clearing skin.
Basically, Biore strips are like the adhesive part of a band-aid, but even stickier. When you apply it to your nose, you get rid of the top layers of skin that clog pores, along with the oxidized oil in pores that creates the appearance of blackheads. The result is that your pores temporarily appear clearer and smaller. The caveat is that the strips don’t do much in the way of preventing blackheads or keeping pores clear.
Another key to the effectiveness of how well the pore strips work is up to the user’s ability to follow directions. Not using enough water and not getting the strip into the corners and creases of your nose can mean that the strip won’t adhere deeply and pull out all of the gunk in your pores.
Biore strips are perfect for a quick fix for getting rid of surface blackheads and sebum, but the biggest problem with them is that the results are very temporary. Using the strips can be a good way to prep your skin for a night out, but they do nothing in the way of unclogging pores more permanently or preventing future blackheads.
Although there is nothing harmful about using pore strips on occasion, they have the potential to harm the skin if you use them on a regular basis. Instead of relying on pore strips, it is better to use a skincare regimen to prevent and treat blackheads. In the long run, pore strips can actually strip away too many of your skin’s natural oils, causing further acne and even tearing and stretching your pores. If you continue to use pore strips, even after noticing signs of damage or thinning skin, you can potentially cause everything from scarring to spider veins and may also exacerbate other skin conditions, such as rosacea, in the process.
Rather than relying on Biore strips for a regular pore cleanser, try using an exfoliator as part of your skincare regimen and leave the pore strips for special occasion use only.
[Image via Getty]
