What Are Pimple Patches?

Blemish patches are essentially small "stickers'' that can be applied to breakouts to help absorb the pimple's contents and encourage the spot to heal. They're typically made out of a gel-based hydrocolloid inner layer (we'll get to that in a moment) with a flexible but impermeable silicone outer layer. They come in many different sizes, from small patches designed for individual blemishes to bigger sheets made to target larger problem areas.

How Do Hydrocolloid Patches Work?

Hydrocolloid bandages don't typically contain any blemish-fighting ingredients, like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. In other words, they don't help the blemish heal by fighting it. When applied to a spot, like a pimple, the patch does two things. First and foremost, it helps shield the spot, providing a moist (and clean) environment. The patch's outer layer helps keep the area clean by preventing microbes, like infection-causing bacteria, from entering the blemish.

At the same time, hydrocolloid pimple patches help absorb oil and bacteria from within the pimple. Interestingly, hydrocolloid bandages have been used in medical settings since the late 1960s, but it wasn't until recently that they became a popular way to manage breakouts at home.

How To Use Hydrocolloid Patches

Now that you know what hydrocolloid patches are, we can get into the good stuff: How to use them. First, identify the blemish you want to cover and choose a pimple patch that will cover the spot in its entirety. If the area you want to treat has multiple blemishes, a larger hydrocolloid patch may be ideal.

Then, using a dampened cotton swab, gently clean the spot until it is completely free of product. Once it's sufficiently cleaned, you can peel the pimple patch from its backing and carefully apply it sticky-side down. Exact application instructions may differ from product to product. For example, most pimple patches are designed to be worn overnight, but this can vary. Follow the directions included with the specific patches you're using.

Once you've left your pimple patch on for the recommended amount of time, wash your hands and carefully remove the sticker from your blemish. Then, cleanse, tone, and moisturize your face as usual with your preferred products.