There aren’t many people who haven’t struggled with a pimple every now and again. The usual options, from gels and washes and masks to (sharp intake of breath) popping them, tend to feel unsatisfactory. Pimple patches offer a different approach. A long-time Korean beauty staple, they are essentially mini dressings. They promote healing of the pimple to leave you with clearer skin, free of blemishes or scarring. This article explains what they are, how they work, and when they help.
What are Pimples?
Pimples (or zits, or spots if you prefer) start with excess sebum production. This leads to oil and dead cells getting trapped in pores. If these pores stay open, the comedones become blackheads. If the comedone becomes closed, it gives rise to whiteheads. When inflammation occurs in these blocked pores, the comedone becomes a papule. If pus forms, it becomes a pustule, which can progress to nodules or cysts. We call these inflamed comedones cystic pimples. They differ from whiteheads in that they usually do not come to a head, and they tend to appear red and diffusely swollen.
What are Pimple Patches & Do They Work?
Pimple patches consist of hydrocolloid. This is the most common type of wound dressing, and it contains gel-forming agents such as sodium carboxymethylcellulose and gelatin. Hydrocolloid dressings work by absorbing discharge from a wound, and some also release healing substances. This is why they have become an integral part of modern wound care. That same property makes them an effective treatment for pimples. They treat the spot like a wound and heal it from the inside out. As a result, pimple patches work best on whiteheads that have already popped or are ripe for popping. They can also clean out blackheads or enlarged pores that have not yet clogged up. After application, the hydrocolloid simply draws out any exudate to restore the pore to its normal state. Plain hydrocolloid patches are not effective on their own on cystic pimples, though versions impregnated with active ingredients tend to work better.
How Do You Use Pimple Patches?
The best time to apply a pimple patch is when you first notice a spot appearing. You can also use them on more advanced spots. They are best reserved for one or two pimples. If you are dealing with a whole-face breakout, it is better to treat the whole face with products aimed at acne. Start by cleansing your face as normal, then dry the pimple and surrounding skin with a clean towel. Stick on a patch and leave it to do its work. You can apply it overnight (we like this option best) or during the day. Once the patch is on, continue with the rest of your skincare routine. You can even wear makeup over it, since the patch seals the pimple underneath.
When you first apply a pimple patch, it starts off clear. As it draws out the exudate from the pimple, it turns cloudy and then white. At this point you can remove the patch, and the skin usually looks clear. Be careful when removing it, because patches can stick down. If you are too rough, you may damage the healing wound and cause bleeding. If the patch is not coming off easily, ease it off gently. A little water, cleanser, toner or oil will loosen the edges.
Which Pimple Patch Should You Choose?
There are many options out there, and the best approach is to first decide which kind of pimple you are dealing with. The right patch depends on whether the spot is a simple whitehead or something deeper and more inflamed.
- Plain hydrocolloid patches: These are the basic, non-medicated option, and they work best on whiteheads that have popped or are ripe for popping. They are widely available from pharmacies and beauty retailers. To begin with, the brand does not matter, so start with a basic patch and see how you get on.
- Medicated patches with active ingredients: Some patches contain added actives such as salicylic acid, which helps calm bacteria and bring down inflammation. They tend to be lightweight and translucent enough to wear during the day. They also save you a few steps compared with treating the spot separately.
- Patches for cystic pimples: Plain hydrocolloid patches are not enough on their own for cystic spots, so treat the area first. After cleansing, apply an ice pack for a few minutes at a time to bring down the redness and swelling. Then treat the spot with a benzoyl peroxide gel or cleanser and follow with a salicylic acid toner or gel. Stick on the patch to keep the area clean and draw out any fluid, then remove it once it turns white and repeat until the pimple heals.
Pimples and adult acne are increasingly common. If you only get isolated breakouts, a pimple patch is a far better solution than overhauling your entire skincare routine. You can also use them on other areas like the neck, chest, limbs or back, where pimples can appear. They provide a wound-healing environment and help treat the spot without causing scarring or injury to the skin. That said, a good regular skincare routine is still essential for reducing the risk of pore blockage. It is also better to treat persistent or widespread breakouts at the source. If you want to learn how to look after oily, breakout-prone skin without stripping it, take a look at our skincare routine for oily skin.
At City Skin Clinic, we are passionate about personalised skincare. Our online skin clinic offers safe and effective custom skincare treatments. Where appropriate our doctors use ingredients such as tretinoin and azelaic acid to treat skin conditions like acne, hyperpigmentation, melasma and skin ageing. To start your personalised skincare plan, book a virtual video consultation or use our online consultation form. The journey towards great skin starts here.
This article is intended for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always consult a qualified medical provider for any medical concerns or questions you might have.
