How Pimple Patches Can Make Breakouts Fun

Close-up of female face with pimple patches on the skin. Pimple patches are in the shape of yellow stars.

Breakouts? Fun? Can these two things co-exist? Pimple patches are the answer.

Well, it seems that we have finally entered a reality where breakouts can be a fashion statement (yay!). Not only that, but pimple patches are a great way to treat acne, assist with healing, and promote clear skin. Keep reading to get all the information you need on pimple patches and what they can offer you.

What are Pimple Patches?

Perhaps you’ve seen someone walking around with a tiny sticker on their face? If not, that’s basically what a pimple patch looks like. Sometimes people even opt for multiple patches at a time to target different breakouts on their face!

These small adhesive patches are applied directly onto acne-prone or blemished skin. Whilst some people prefer their patches to be different colors and shapes, sheer or skin-tone designs are also available for a more discrete style.

How Do Pimple Patches Work?

We all know that when you get a pimple or experience a breakout you shouldn’t pick or squeeze the blemish. However, in practice this can be challenging. Nobody likes walking around with a pimple ready to explode on their face! This is where pimple patches offer a simple solution. Similar to a bandage, a pimple patch prevents the user from touching or picking at the pimple (which can just make the problem worse). Also just like a bandage, pimple patches are single-use and usually purchased in packs.

The actual ingredients of the pimple patch vary, but usually include one or some of the following:

  1. Hydrocolloid or Hydrogel
    This is the main ingredients in pimple patches that works to create a moist environment to promote healing.
  2. Adhesive
    This ingredient is what causes the patch to stick to the skin. Don’t worry, it’s a gentle adhesive and is carefully designed not to irritate the skin.
  3. Salicylic Acid
    This beta-hydroxy acid is often used in skincare products to fight acne, unclog pores, and reduce inflammation.
  4. Tea Tree Oil or Extract
    This ingredient has antimicrobial properties that work against bacteria and help treat acne.
  5. Calamine
    This mineral-based ingredient is soothing for the skin and can help reduce redness or inflammation.
  6. Vitamin E
    This antioxidant is often used in skincare to promote healing and reduce redness or inflammation.
  7. Hyaluronic Acid
    This popular skincare ingredient encourages hydration and the retention of moisture in the skin.
  8. Niacinamide
    This ingredient can improve skin tone, texture, and help stabilize the skin barrier to enhance skin hydration.
  9. Benzoyl peroxide
    This is a popular antiseptic for the treatment of acne which has been around for a long time.

Remember, pimple patches won’t contain all of these ingredients! Instead, each brand will likely have developed a patch formulation using unique combinations of these common ingredients. More about common skincare ingredients here…

Not only are the ingredients different, but the design of the pimple patch itself can also be varied for certain skin concerns.
Types of pimple patches and their use include:

Types of Pimple PatchesTreatment Purpose
Hydrocolloid (non-medicated)Great for sensitive skin and surface-level blemishes that have a head ready to pop (e.g. Whiteheads).
MedicatedThe inclusion of acne-fighting ingredients makes these best for oily or acne-prone skin. Best for angry red blemishes that need extra help targeting bacteria and inflammation.
Microneedling / Micro-dartTiny spikes can help address deeper acne or blemishes. Best for blind pimples or skin prone to cystic acne.

Benefits of Using a Pimple Patch

Let’s be honest – pimple patches aren’t magical. They aren’t going to stop the pimple from appearing on your skin. Although they can assist in the healing process and minimize the damage caused by the blemish.

To get the most benefits out of your pimple patch, understand your skin type and associated concerns. This will help you choose the right brand of pimple patch which includes the right ingredients for your skin. For example, a pimple patch containing salicylic acid might work wonders for an oily skin type that is prone to acne. Whereas a non-medicated hydrocolloid patch is likely to be more suitable for individuals with a sensitive skin type. Find out more about your skin type here…

Another benefit of using a pimple patch is the convenience! It is much easier to apply a patch to a red, sore, and obvious pimple before heading out for the day. Covering these kinds of blemishes with makeup can often be tedious, and difficult – often causing further irritation.

Some pimple patches are designed to be discrete and have makeup applied over the top. Other types are made to stand out and be a statement on the skin. This is where many celebrities and influencers have decided to start making pimple patches a fun fashion statement. So if they can, you can too! If you have the confidence, why not? There are lots of fun shapes and colours available to place over your blemishes and draw attention to your spot in a lighthearted manner.

How to Apply a Pimple Patch

Applying a pimple patch is easy and takes barely any time at all.

Start by gently cleaning the pimple and drying the skin. You do not need to squeeze the pimple and break open the skin! However, if the skin has already broken and the pimple is open then the pimple patch can still be applied.

Once the skin is dry, just apply the patch over the pimple. Now just continue with the rest of your skincare or makeup routine over or around the patch as you wish. Some people even apply the pimple patch before going to bed at night and remove it in the morning! Just check the label of your patch to see how long it should be left on your face.

Once the recommended timeframe is up, all you have to do is gently peel the patch off your skin to remove it. When it’s time to dispose of the patch, it can just be thrown away with regular trash (as a perk, most patches are biodegradable too).

Who Should Avoid Pimple Patches?

Most skin types can tolerate pimple patches. That said, those with really sensitive skin might find that pimple patches cause increased irritation and make their blemish worse.

Also, pimple patches are not able to clean dirty skin or clogged pores. For this reason, they are ineffective for blackheads. Pimple patches are also unable to properly treat cystic acne because it is deeper underneath the skin. They also can’t prevent flare-ups and are best used to minimize the symptoms of a blemish or speed up the healing process.

Tips and Tricks

  • Apply pimple patches to blemishes with fluid in them. If there’s no fluid then the pimple patch has nothing to ‘draw out’ of the skin. This means the patch is simply working to hide the pimple instead of treating it.
  • Don’t leave the patch on for too long. If left on for too long, the patch can become difficult to remove and cause injury to the skin when peeled off.
  • When removing your pimple patch make sure your hands are clean. Also, consider applying another patch to help get all the pus out. An additional patch can also assist with the healing process.

Alternatives to a Pimple Patch

Of course, pimple patches are just one way to treat skin breakouts. If this method isn’t for you then don’t worry! There are many other ways that you can care for your skin.

Those with more severe or persistent acne might like to consider:

  • Cleansers
    Look for skincare ingredients known to assist with acne-prone skin.
  • Specialized treatments
    There are many types of professional skin treatments available to assist with acne.
  • Medications (Topical or oral)
    Discuss androgen receptor blockers, oral contraception, and isotretinoin with your doctor.
  • Antibiotics (Topical or oral)
    Discuss benzoyl peroxide, clindamycin, erythromycin, or minocycline with your doctor.
  • Injections
    Consider the use of steriod injections in the affected areas – discuss with your doctor.

Final Thoughts on Pimple Patches

Pimple patches don’t work miracles, but they are a fun way to try treating your next breakout. Look for the ingredients that suit your skin’s needs and follow the product use instructions for the best results. Seems like a fun way to hide or ‘highlight’ a blemish. We’re keen to hear your thoughts in the comments below!

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