Pimple patches are usually see-through, which means you can see the drama unfold in the mirror (they turn white as they work to absorb the pus and flatten out your spot). And the best part is that the thinnest and most discrete of hydrocolloid patches could actually be worn during the day. No wonder they’ve become a dermatologist-approved bathroom cabinet staple.
And there’s another major bonus: acne stickers do a great job at stopping you from picking or squeezing your blemish, preventing the transfer of bacteria and acting as an extra layer of protection for your skin.
Facialist Sarah Chapman says, “Hydrocolloid pimple patches are hygienic – they stick to your skin and create a shield from other irritants like daily dirt and pollution. Used on spots, they also calm redness and irritation, encouraging the skin to heal.”
What type of blemishes do they work for?
What about if you’ve already picked a pimple and you’ve been left with a weeping wound? Fret not, we’ve all been there. Adding a drop of tea tree oil to the acne spot and then covering it with a pimple patch works miracles. It stops it from scabbing over and helps prevent any acne scars. Not an excuse to keep picking, but this can help when you’re left with a bit of a situation.
“If you have a deep cyst that’s sitting under the surface of your skin or a closed comedone, putting a hydrocolloid patch over it won’t do an awful lot,” flags Hero expert dermatologist, Dr. Sonia Khorana. “But if you’re dealing with a red, angry, oozing spot or one that you’ve somewhat picked – a hydrocolloid patch is great for this.”
For those early-stage pimples, you can dab on some aloe vera – which is known not only for its hydrating properties, but for its soothing and anti-bacterial abilities as an acne-fighting ingredient too.
How do you use a pimple patch?
According to both experts, you should always apply them to clean, dry skin so they adhere properly to the spot. If you’re using one in the day and want to wear makeup, Dr. Sonia recommends applying a patch before applying makeup on top. “I wouldn’t recommend applying makeup and then putting the patch on.”
