I have usually used the pore strip type of products on the pores but I do feel this is more effective. First you massage the gel into your pore enlarged area. It feels kind of thick and I didn't think it did much at first. Then you wipe it off with the toner and move on to the step two which is a finger pad with two sides. I used both sides as the instructions said and I have noticed that the skin on my nose was really smooth. My pores seemed cleaner and the overall effect was way better than with pore strips. I will definitely try it again.