Waking up with a new pimple is never fun and when this happens, everyone wants a quick fix. Products from masks to spot treatments promise to get rid of blemishes fast. One of the most popular treatments is the pimple patch. But do pimple patches work? The short answer is: It depends.
Products like pimple patches are an easy way to treat minor breakouts, and many people wear them both at home and out in the world. These patches can reduce the stigma around having imperfect skin and expedite the lifecycle of certain types of pimples. We asked a dermatologist to explain when these patches work and how to use them. Here's what she said.
What is a pimple patch?
Pimple patches are small adhesives that stick right on your skin. The active and inactive ingredients are on the underside of the patch. Pimples occur when your pores become clogged, most typically due to excess oil (sebum) and/or dead skin cells, and pimple patches act to clear and dry out your pores.
Many pimple patches are clear and circular to blend in with any skin complexion. Others, including those from Starface, come in bright colors and fun shapes that look like decorative stickers. Additional popular brands include Hero Cosmetics, COSRX and Mighty Patch.
The different types of pimple patches
Dr. T.N. Rekha Singh of Olivia Skin & Hair Clinic says different types of pimple patches serve different purposes. The three primary kinds are medicated, hydrocolloid and microneedling. She explains them like this:
- Medicated: This type of pimple patch often has salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, which works on tougher acne by decreasing inflammation and eradicating bacteria.
- Hydrocolloid: These popular patches are not medicated but can still be effective. Hydrocolloid patches are intended to pop a pimple and remove accumulated fluids. They also act as a protective barrier to the area and promote the formation of new skin tissue.
- Microneedling: These types of pimple patches have very fine needles that dissolve in the skin and send active material into the skin that may be needed to treat deeper or cystic acne.
Pimple patches can be effective, but most brands are designed for managing periodic blemishes instead of chronic acne. As Dr. Singh puts it, "Patches are most effective on skin troubles that are just on the skin's surface and not very deep pimples or cysts. They work best on occasional pimple breakouts rather than chronic acne." These patches may also work better on pimples in the later stages; applying one to the hint of a new pimple may not work because the patch can't yet draw out the bacteria and pus.
If you have superficial pimples that need treatment, it's worth noting that pimple patches can do more than clear up your skin. They may also make you more confident. A 2016 review published in the Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology journal revealed that 45.7% of adolescent adults with acne reported social anxiety. Only 18.4% of people without chronic skin problems reported the same.
On the downside, pimple patches are unlikely to effectively treat serious acne that originates deep in the skin. However, the Cleveland Clinic says there are both topical and oral treatments that may help. These could include Dapsone gel, topical antibiotics like clindamycin and erythromycin, oral retinoids, oral antibiotics and hormone therapy.
Pimple patch ingredients
These are some ingredients typically found in pimple patches:
- Salicylic acid: This ingredient dries the outer layer of your skin by actively removing extra oil.
- Benzoyl peroxide: An antiseptic, benzoyl peroxide kills bacteria and reduces inflammation.
- Niacinamide: This type of vitamin B minimizes the size of pores and tightens skin.
- Hydrocolloids: These ingredients are polymers that absorb oil and pus.
- Tea tree oil: Tea tree oil is another drying agent that can help eliminate extra oil, similar to salicylic acid.
How to use pimple patches
Always follow the directions on a pimple patch, as the appropriate usage may vary depending on your brand's ingredients. For instance, some can be worn safely longer than others without irritating skin. However, there are some general best practices to keep in mind.
Dr. Singh recommends washing the part of your skin that will be covered by the pimple patch thoroughly. It should be free of oil, dirt or makeup before applying your patch. You also want to make sure the skin is completely dry. Dr. Singh emphasizes that there "should not be even a little dampness."
Once you remove the patch, Dr. Singh recommends using a mild cleanser and light face moisturizer on the skin. Immediately after the removal, your skin may be especially sensitive in that area and using a harsh cleanser or exfoliating the skin could lead to a rash or other irritation.
Keep in mind that if pimple patches cause redness, pain or a rash on your skin, you should talk to a doctor before continuing use. While most of these patches are safe for most skin types, there is always the chance of an allergic reaction.
Are some pimple patches more effective than others?
The efficacy of a pimple patch depends on factors like how developed a pimple is, the type of pimple it is and the type of patch you use to treat it. If you're using the wrong type of pimple patch for your particular problem, you may want to try a different patch to improve results.
Dr. Singh explains, "Medicated patches are usually more beneficial for red, swollen breakouts on the skin than hydrocolloid ones." Meanwhile, she says that hydrocolloid patches can still be effective for reducing the size of smaller pimples and the red color that emerges as fluid accumulates just under the skin.
If you want to try an over-the-counter method to treat cystic acne, the doctor says microneedling patches are typically more beneficial, but they can also be more expensive.
Can pimple patches make acne worse?
Pimple patches are not likely to make serious acne worse, but they can introduce new skin issues. This is most likely for people with sensitive skin. If you know you are prone to skin irritation, try a hydrocolloid-only patch. The active ingredient in these patches is less likely to result in redness or irritation. Avoid benzoyl peroxide.
Here are some other things to keep in mind when using pimple patches:
- Some online sources claim that pimple patches with salicylic acid are unsafe for pregnant women. However, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists says that topical salicylic acid and topical benzoyl peroxide is safe for use during pregnancy. Oral salicylic acid is generally not recommended, however.
- Pimple patches should not be used on sunburned skin. Using a pimple patch on sunburned skin can cause pain or bleeding. Similarly, don't use a patch on an area that already has a rash.
- You should be careful with pimple patches if you've had allergic reactions to adhesives. You may want to put a pimple patch on a hidden area of your skin and make sure you don't have a reaction before putting one on your face.
The bottom line is that if you have a serious breakout, the worst thing likely to happen is that the patch won't work, or it will leave you with temporary redness.
Pimple patch alternatives
If you decide pimple patches are not for you, there are still other options available. Aside from seeking prescription medication from a dermatologist, you can try some over-the-counter treatments. Dr. Singh recommends starting with the following methods:
- Spot treatments. These often come in the form of gels, lotions or creams. Dr. Singh says using one that contains benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid can be a good alternative to a pimple patch with similar active ingredients.
- All-natural remedies. If you want something organic and more gentle than certain pimple patch chemicals, you may be able to use a product you already have at home. Honey or aloe vera also kill bacteria and can be applied safely to most skin types. Some people also apply wet green tea leaves to their skin.
- Skincare routine. A solid skincare routine can help you avoid new pimple production, which pimple patches can't do. Maintaining a regimen of cleansing, exfoliation and moisturization aids in managing pimples and acne. Remember that washing your face more than twice a day may cause dry skin.
The bottom line
Pimple patches can work for many skin types. They aren't a fix-all, but you may be able to combat an unexpected chin pimple with one of these adhesive stickers. Here's what you should keep in mind with pimple patches:
- Patches are suitable for occasional pimples to reduce swelling and redness and draw out fluid.
- Pimple patches can be worn at night while you sleep or throughout the day. However, always follow the instructions on your patch when it comes to how long you should leave the patch on.
- More severe cases of acne may require prescription interventions.
- Hydrocolloids are the gentlest option, while medicated and microneedling patches are tougher on bacteria.
- Alternatives like green tea or honey may work, and spot treatments with salicylic acid may achieve a similar result to pimple patches.