Strawberry Nose: Causes, Treatments, and Prevention Tips

Have you ever looked in the mirror and seen little dark spots all over your nose that make it look like a strawberry? This is called a strawberry nose and is common among many people. It may not be medically harmful, but it can still make you feel self-conscious. The good news? It’s manageable with a proper skin care routine. Learn the causes, treatments, and prevention tips for strawberry nose

What is a strawberry nose?

A strawberry nose is when there are numerous little dark dots on the surface of the nose that resemble the seeds of a strawberry. They are typically large pores filled with a mixture of sebum, dead skin cells, dirt, and sometimes oxidised material that becomes black when it is exposed to air.

Strawberry nose causes

Strawberry nose is often the result of several contributing factors that lead to the visible darkening of pores on the nose. The different strawberry nose causes include:

• Excess oil production: Overactive sebaceous glands can cause pores to become clogged with sebum, resulting in visible dark spots.
• Poor cleansing habits: Inadequate removal of makeup, sunscreen, or pollution can lead to a buildup in pores.
• Dead skin accumulation: When dead skin cells aren’t properly exfoliated, they mix with oil and block pores.
• Oxidation of sebum: When the debris inside your pores comes into contact with air, it oxidises and darkens, just like a sliced apple turning brown.
• Genetics: Larger pores and oily skin types can run in families, making you more prone to developing a strawberry nose.
• Improper skincare products: Comedogenic products can worsen pore clogging and exacerbate the problem.

Strawberry skin on nose vs blackheads

Even though they are often used interchangeably, a strawberry nose and blackheads are not exactly the same. What are blackheads ? They are a form of acne that occurs when the hair follicles become clogged with oil and skin cells, and the plug of oil and cells becomes oxidised and black.

Strawberry skin on nose is the result of a combination of blackheads and sebaceous filaments. Sebaceous filaments are those naturally occurring, thread-like formations in your pores that help direct your sebum flow.

They do not protrude like a blackhead and are much more stubborn to extract, often reappearing very quickly after having just been taken away. Strawberry skin is more of a texture and appearance issue that arises due to thousands of teeny tiny imperfections, while blackheads are a form of clogged pore.

Strawberry nose treatment options

Effective strawberry nose treatment requires a mix of consistent skincare habits and, in some cases, professional help. Here are some proven treatment options:

1. Daily cleansing

A gentle but thorough cleansing routine helps remove surface oil, dirt, and other impurities that contribute to clogged pores. Look for non-comedogenic cleansers like the Brightening & Exfoliating Vitamin C Daily Face Wash.

2. Exfoliation

Exfoliating 1–2 times a week helps slough off dead skin cells that can clog pores. You can opt for chemical exfoliants like AHAs (glycolic acid) or BHAs (salicylic acid), which penetrate deep into pores. Avoid harsh physical scrubs as they can irritate the skin and worsen the condition.

3. Clay masks

Clay masks like the Pore Refining & Soothing Clay Mask with Cica Extract. help absorb excess oil and purify pores. Use them once or twice a week to draw out impurities and refine pore appearance. The benefits of clay masks also include soothing the skin and improving the skin tone.

4. Use clarifying actives

You can use the following active ingredients:

• Niacinamide regulates sebum production and improves skin texture.
• Supports skin healing If your skin has undergone treatments like chemical peels, microneedling, or laser therapy, it becomes more sensitive to UVB damage. Protection during this time is critical to avoid scarring and hyperpigmentation.
• A product like the Acne & Oil Control Intense Serum with 2% Salicylic Acid exfoliates within pores and reduces clogging.
• Retinol, a derivative of vitamin A, encourages cell turnover and helps prevent pore blockage over time.

5. Pore strips

Pore strips can offer a quick fix by removing blackheads and sebaceous filaments. However, they should be used sparingly, as overuse can damage the skin and enlarge pores over time.

6. Professional treatments

If home treatments don’t work, consider seeing a dermatologist for:

• Chemical peels to deeply exfoliate the skin.
• Microdermabrasion to smoothen texture.
• Laser therapy to reduce pore size and oil production.
• Extraction facials to safely remove blackheads without damaging the skin.

How to prevent strawberry nose

Preventing strawberry skin nose requires maintaining a healthy skincare routine tailored to your skin type. Here are some practical tips:

• Follow double face cleansing steps with gentle products.
• Avoid heavy, pore-clogging makeup, and always remove makeup before sleeping.
• Exfoliate regularly to prevent dead skin build-up.
• Use products like the Super Clarifying 12% Niacinamide Face Serum to keep pores clean.
• Apply sunscreen daily to prevent damage and inflammation.
• Keep your hands off your face to avoid transferring dirt and bacteria.
• Drink plenty of water and maintain a balanced diet for overall skin health.
• Use oil-free moisturisers to keep your skin hydrated without clogging pores.

Conclusion

Strawberry nose might seem like a stubborn skin concern, but with the right approach, it’s completely manageable. By understanding the causes and adopting a targeted skincare routine, you can minimise its appearance and prevent recurrence. Remember, consistency is key. If home remedies don’t yield results, seeking professional help can make all the difference. So don’t lose heart—your smooth, clear nose could be just a routine away.

FAQs:

Is strawberry nose the same as blackheads?

They are not exactly the same. Blackheads are clogged pores that oxidise and darken, whereas strawberry nose also involves sebaceous filaments, which are natural and less problematic.

Can strawberry nose go away?

Yes, strawberry nose can improve or even disappear with consistent and proper skincare. However, it may take time and patience to see visible results.

How long does it take to get rid of strawberry nose?

The time frame varies depending on your skin type and the treatments used. Most people notice improvement within a few weeks of following a regular skincare routine.

What are the common causes of strawberry nose?

Strawberry nose is commonly caused by excess oil production, clogged pores, and the build-up of dead skin cells. Oxidation of sebum inside the pores also contributes to the dark spots.

Are pore strips safe for strawberry nose?

Pore strips can be safe if used occasionally and carefully. Overuse may irritate the skin and enlarge pores, so they should not be relied upon as a primary treatment.