Swap Your Pore Strips for One of These Cleansers

We get it — pore strips can be a really satisfying step in your skincare routine. Even though they’re fun to use and seem to always pull out excess dirt, oil and pollution, we’re here to remind you that they can be a little harsh on the skin, especially if you have a sensitive skin type. In fact, you might be ripping off more than you bargained for if you use them too frequently, and the last thing you want is red, irritated skin after the fact. 

L’Oréal Paris Pure Clay Exfoliate & Refine Cleanser

This deep-cleaning cleanser with red algae and volcanic rock helps unclog and minimize the appearance of pores. It has a creamy consistency that can be used as a daily face wash or a face mask (just leave it on for 10-15 minutes) up to three times a week. 

Kiehl’s Rare Earth Deep Pore Daily Cleanser

A crowd-favorite cleanser, this wash made with Amazonian clay exfoliates and detoxifies the skin to remove impurities, oil, debris and toxins but won’t leave it feeling dry or stripped.

La Roche-Posay Effaclar Cream Cleanser for Oily Skin

Oily skin types might look to pore strips to help reduce acne, but we recommend this cream cleanser instead. It’s infused with salicylic acid and glycerin to tighten the pores and leave skin looking more even-toned.

Garnier SkinActive Exfoliating Face Scrub with Green Tea

A scrub like this deep pore formula can be as satisfying as applying a pore strip. It’s made with green tea to help detox and calm the skin. Use two to three times a week for a more refined skin texture.

TULA So Poreless Deep Exfoliating Blackhead Scrub

With probiotic extracts, volcanic sand and witch hazel, pores have nothing on this exfoliating scrub. It works to improve skin smoothness and radiance, and it smells amazing, too.

OLEHENRIKSEN Pore-Balance Facial Sauna Scrub

This pore-balancing scrub is like a facial in a bottle. It has a dual-action warming and cooling feeling and uses glycolic and lactic acid to exfoliate the skin for a thorough clean.

Design: Hannah Packer

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