17 Pimple Patches That Make Dealing With Acne a Breeze

As you browse the interwebs for pimple patches, you’ll notice one word appearing on every box: hydrocolloid. “Pimple patches contain hydrocolloid gel that has powerful wound healing properties. It acts to absorb excess fluid and remove excess dirt, oil, and sebum, which helps to quickly shrink the appearance of pimples,” Dr. Lauren Penzi, MD, explains. Of course, many patches are formulated with other familiar ingredients found in your daily skincare products.

“Some patches also contain specific acne-fighting ingredients such as salicylic acid and tea tree oil. The patch helps to occlude these acne-fighting ingredients, which make them more effective, “she adds.

Like adhering a sticker to a computer or book, acne patches work similarly. However, you’ll need to prep your skin beforehand to ensure you’re getting the most out of your pimple patches. Dr. Penzi suggests applying acne patches at nighttime just before heading to bed.

“After removing your makeup, cleansing your face, and ensuring your skin is dry, apply the patch to your pimple. I recommend leaving it on for six to eight hours. Avoid wearing the patch for more than 12 hours, as this can lead to potential irritation,” she explains. Even though you want to suffocate the pimple as much as possible, it needs to breathe. “After removing the patch, I recommend again cleansing your face to remove any pus or bacteria,” she says.

“You can use acne patches as often as you like. I recommend first testing the product on your inner forearm to ensure you don’t have a reaction to an ingredient in the patch before leaving it on your face for a prolonged period of time. I also recommend reserving pimple patches for larger inflammatory papules and nodules,” Dr. Penzi says.

Dr. Lauren Penzi, NY-based board-certified dermatologist who specializes acne, rosacea, skin cancer, eczema, psoriasis, and hair loss.

Nerisha Penrose is the Beauty Commerce Editor at ELLE.com. Since joining ELLE.com in 2017, she has interviewed countless skincare professionals and has personally tested the latest and greatest products across makeup, skincare, and hair care.