Acne and pimples are common skin problems that can be tricky to manage. Some may experience mild zits, while others have chronic and severe breakouts. Popping and picking your pimples aren’t ideal, yet they are unavoidable. Sometimes, pimples still pop up even if you have been religiously using a Kaolin clay mask.
The struggle is real, which is why skincare alternatives, products, and regimens have become popular.
Pimple patches are one of the skincare products on the rise. According to Grand View Research, the global revenue for the pimple patches market amounted to 510.8 million USD in 2021. It is estimated to reach a 6.1 percent compound annual growth rate (CAGR) by 2030.
If you’re wondering what an acne pimple patch is, this post will help you further learn about it, how it works, and the best brands you can use.
What are pimple patches, and how do they work?
Pimple patches are tiny stickers containing a healing substance called hydrocolloid. Like a dressing, patches have an inner layer that contains carboxymethylcellulose, gelatin, and pectin. These agents are responsible for moisture retention, which promotes faster wound healing.
Hydrocolloid dressings are usually larger versions that can be called “blister bandages” designed for wounds.
Although pimple patches are known as hydrocolloids, there are also non-hydrocolloid ones. These are microneedle and medicated patches. One has needles, while the other contains substances like salicylic acid. Additionally, they come in different sizes, depending on the size of your zits.
These various types of pimple patches can aid a faster skin healing process. They work by draining and covering your acne lesions to prevent further trauma from popping and picking.
How To Use a Pimple Patch
You must know what type of zits you have by consulting your dermatologist. Hydrocolloids, microneedles, and medicated patches work differently with certain types of acne and pimples.
Here’s your guide on types of pimple patches and when to use them.
- Hydrocolloid – best for ready-to-pop pimples
When your pimple forms a head, it may mean it’s ready to pop. Rather than popping, hydrocolloid patches can absorb its pus and dirt.
- Microneedle – best for blind and new-forming pimples, cystic acne, and post-inflamed pimple spots
These patches’ fine little needles are designed to penetrate your lesions. They carry active ingredients to help your pimples heal. These include salicylic, tranexamic, hyaluronic acids, and tea tree oils.
- Medicated – best for papules or pustules (depends on the active ingredients)
These patches also contain the same active ingredients as the microneedle patches. They may be better options than topical creams because they stay longer on your skin.
Below are the steps you can follow to apply a pimple patch.
- Wash your hands and face. Your unwashed hands bring dirt to your face upon touching. Make sure they are dry and clean before applying the patch.
- Pick patches with suitable fits for your lesions. You’ll have options because a typical pimple patches box comes with patches of varying sizes.
- When you’re done prepping your face, stick the patch gently onto your zit. Ensure that it’s completely covered. You can start with this as the first step of your skincare routine.
- Leave them on for 24 hours or, depending on the product’s directions, until it turns opaque. Different pimple patches may have distinct time requirements due to their ingredients. Don’t forget to read their instructions.
- Remove the patch gently when it’s time. Careless peeling of the patch can affect your skin elasticity. Clean your hands before removal, or you may use clean tweezers instead.
Noteworthy Pimple Patch Brands
There are lots of pimple patch brands in the market now. Finding the right one for you can be overwhelming and time-consuming. Below are the top five noteworthy pimple patch brands you can try.
1. COSRX Acne Pimple Master Patch
Image source: cosrx.com
- Patch type: Hydrocolloid
- Price: Average to Expensive
- Pros: Easy to apply; 24 patches with three different sizes; stays throughout showers; fragrance-free
- Cons: Can be pricey and not individually wrapped
2. KILLA Kit by ZitSticka
Image source: zitsticka.com.au
- Patch type: Microneedle
- Price: Average
- Pros: Can cover a large area of your zits; waterproof; highly effective based on user reviews
- Cons: Too much plastic in packaging; unpleasant for some users
3. Rael Beauty Miracle Microcrystal Spot Cover
Image source: getrael.com
- Patch type: Microneedle and Medicated
- Price: Average to Expensive
- Pros: Contains tea tree oil, herbal extracts, and hyaluronic acid for moisturization; may cut large patches into small pieces based on needs; strong adhesive
- Cons: May leave a tape residue; patches may be too thin; not ideal for inflamed cystic acne
4. Mighty Patch Original by Hero Cosmetics
Image source: herocosmetics.us
- Patch type: Hydrocolloid
- Price: Average
- Pros: Can be used overnight; easy-peel sheets; UV sterilized
- Cons: Not ideal for cystic pimples and blackheads
5. Nexcare Acne Blemish Cover
Image source: nexcare.com
- Patch type: Hydrocolloid
- Price: Average
- Pros: Made from a well-known bandage brand; clear pimple patches; latex-free; heavy duty
- Cons: Not ideal for cystic acne; some reviews say their patches fall off; can be too small for some
Achieve Clear and Glowing Skin With Pimple Patches
Pimple patches are a great way to heal your zits faster, whatever they may be. Still, you must know what they are and how to use them. Consulting your dermatologist is best to let you know what types of zits you have. Your derma’s advice can also guide you on appropriate pimple patches to use.