Do Pore Vacuums Work? How to Use One Without Leaving Marks
Pore vacuums are the gadget we get asked about most. Used well, they’re satisfying and useful for surface gunk. Used badly, they leave red marks. Here’s the difference.
Tools in this guide
What they’re good at
Lifting loosened surface oil and debris from areas like the nose, especially right after steaming. They’re not a replacement for a loop on stubborn individual blackheads.
Technique that avoids marks
- Steam first with a NanoSteamer or a warm cloth.
- Start on the lowest suction setting.
- Glide slowly in one direction. Never hold it still.
- One or two passes per area, then stop.
- Finish with a calming toner like Thayers toner.
Who should skip it
If you bruise easily, have thin or sensitive skin, visible broken capillaries or active breakouts, skip suction and stick with gentle prep and a loop tool.
Our pick, with three suction levels and three heads: the Pore Tube Pore Vacuum.
General information, not medical advice. Our videos show one person’s skin. If something is red, painful or inflamed, leave it alone and talk to a dermatologist. Some links are affiliate links; as an Amazon Associate, Pore Tube earns from qualifying purchases.