We don't like it any more than you do.
The answer to this question is pretty simple: your pores get clogged with excess oil and dead skin cells. When a lot of oil and skin cells clog up the pores regularly, they become stretched and appear larger. This is one reason that those of us with oily skin have larger pores, whereas drier-skinned folks sometimes appear poreless. Blackheads occur when a mass of sebum and skin cells hardens and builds up in the pores; they turn dark when this mass is exposed to oxygen and oxidation occurs. You can see why pore strips wouldn’t be very effective at unclogging pores. They operate on the principle that blackheads are solid in nature—like hairs that can be pulled out of the skin. Really what you need is something that will soak up excess oil and keep the skin’s oil production balanced.
If you’re interested in treating or preventing blackheads and clogged pores, we use our Silver Powder for just this purpose. It includes Kaolin, a natural clay that soaks up oil, helping to eliminate excess production. You apply it with a wet cotton ball to the areas that most often experience blackheads (like your nose or chin), wait about 10 minutes, and then remove it with your toner (or water; toner works better, though). We don't really recommend that you use it all over your face-- unless, of course, you're experiencing clogged pores and blackheads all over.
See what everyone is saying about it:
Janet A. This product is amazing. I have never seen something work so well and so fast! It is very easy to apply and remove. It minimizes pores, the appearance of blackheads and such ups excess oil without over drying. AND its a great price and lasts a long time!
Angela C. I, like many other reviewers, have oily skin with large poors and a great deal of congestion on my nose and chin. The Silver Powder is truly amazing. After the first application I couldn't believe how clear my skn was. It is my absolute favorite of the Mario products.
Courtney D. A saleswoman recommended this product to me, and she was practically jumping up and down with excitement tell me how great it was. I went home and used it, and when I wiped the product off my skin looked AMAZING. I generally have a ton of blackheads on my nose but they were all gone, and my skin looks and feels smooth and even, and isn't oily at all usually within an hour or two of washing my face, my skin gets oily gross. It's seriously amazing.
Erin L. I have large, clogged pores on my nose and T-Zone in general for as long as I can remember. I know, it is as terrible as it sounds. No matter how many facials or products I would use nothing would unclog my pores. In ONE ten minute application of this product there was an UNBELIEVABLE difference. My nose looks clear. Doesn't dry skin at all. I can't recommend this product highly enough. IT IS WONDERFUL!!
