11 Pimple Patches To Try During Your Next Breakout
November 12, 2024
Every once in a while, a beauty product comes out that forever changes the game, leaving you wondering how you ever survived without it. That sums up how we feel about pimple patches, small (often translucent) stickers that help flatten pimples in very little time. If you’ve ever seen them at the store and wondered “Do pimple patches work?” the answer is yes—depending on the type of blemish you’re dealing with. Typically, pimple patches are made out of hydrocolloid, a type of gel-forming material that helps absorb liquid. When you have a pimple that’s filled with fluid—like a whitehead or a pustule—placing a pimple patch on top of it can help suck out the gunk inside, in turn, shrinking the spot. They can also help prevent you from picking at your pimples, a bad habit that can lead to dark spots and scarring.
Below, we’re sharing a look at some of our favorite patches that we’ve tried, from invisible options perfect for daytime wear to cute pimple patches that shrink spots and make a playful statement. Shop our must-haves ahead and learn how to use pimple patches in your skincare routine.
When To Use a Pimple Patch
Since hydrocolloid pimple patches are designed to help improve the look of blemishes by absorbing what’s inside them, they tend to work best on fluid-filled pimples, like papules, pustules, and cysts.
Pimple patches containing ingredients other than hydrocolloid (hang tight for a look at some of our faves) may also be useful for managing blackheads or other skin concerns. All pimple patches, however, can be helpful for preventing picking. So if you’re someone who has trouble keeping their hands off when a breakout crops up, it may be a good idea to keep some stickers on hand.
How Long Do You Leave a Pimple Patch On?
Knowing how long to leave a pimple patch on is as important as choosing the right one for your needs. Generally speaking, you’ll want to wear a pimple patch for at least a few hours so it has time to absorb the fluid inside your pimple. However, the exact amount of time may vary depending on the type of patch you’re using. As such, it’s always a good idea to read the instructions on the packaging of any pimple patches you use to get the most out of them. Once your blemish clears, be sure to adopt a targeted skincare routine to help keep further breakouts at bay. If you need help on that front, here’s A Simple Skincare Routine for Acne-Prone Skin Types.
11 Pimple Patches Our Editors Love
Now that you’re caught up on how and when to use pimple patches, keep scrolling for a look at some of our favorites.
Kiehl’s Truly Targeted Acne-Clearing Pimple Patch with Salicylic Acid
Not to throw a curveball at you straight from the start, but our first pimple patch recommendation redefines what a “patch” is. That’s because it’s not a sticker at all—it’s an invisible liquid pimple patch (think liquid bandage, but a hundred times cooler). The easy-to-use formula creates a breathable seal over blemishes and helps reduce the size of active zits in as little as 24 hours. Plus, once your breakout clears, it can help improve the appearance of post-blemish marks. Apply a thin layer to clean skin, let it dry completely, then layer on your SPF and makeup as usual.
Peace Out Acne Healing Dots
Many of the best pimple patches are made with acne-fighting ingredients for a one-two punch against stubborn spots. That’s the case with these widely-loved patches, which contain encapsulated salicylic acid and aloe vera. According to the brand, they’re great for anyone who needs to see quick, effective results—the appearance of redness and irritation can improve in six hours or less.
Starface Hydro-Stars Party Pack
You’ve almost certainly seen these cute pimple patches adorning the face of your favorite beauty influencer—they’re incredibly popular, especially on TikTok. The colorful, star-shaped stickers are made from 100% hydrocolloid and, per the brand, help shrink pimples overnight while helping to shield the skin from outside bacteria. The stickers’ playful shape isn’t just a gimmick, either: According to Starface, the star-shaped design helps grip the contours of the face to ensure the patch stays put.
Good Molecules Pimple Patches
A lot of pimple patches claim to be invisible under makeup, but in our experience, few actually are. These stand as one exception. The waterproof stickers, which the brand says can be used on whiteheads and blackheads, help absorb impurities and other gunk without leaving behind a sticky residue. They’re incredibly thin and layer well under makeup—and, the brand notes, won’t leave behind a sticky residue when removed at the end of the day.
Peach Slices Acne Spot Dots
Instead of popping a pimple, K-beauty brand Peach Slices wants you to “Spot Dot it!” According to the brand, these translucent pimple patches are made from medical-grade hydrocolloid and help diminish pimple size and redness within a single day. Each pack contains 30 patches in various sizes to tackle a wide range of blemishes (the brand says they’re suitable for use on both acne breakouts and blackheads).
Curology Emergency Spot Patch
When a zit pops up fast, this brand encourages you to reach for one of their ultra-thin waterproof and sweat-resistant pimple patches to help save the day. Leave one of them on for six to 12 hours and repeat as needed to help absorb pus and pore-clogging oil.
Clean Skin Club DermaDot Invisible Pimple Patches
Bring “almost-ready” pimples to the surface with these vegan hydrocolloid patches, which the brand claims help expedite blemish healing time by draining the gunk within blemishes. Pop one on over your blemish and wait—as the pimple patch drains fluid from your pimple, it’ll turn white, signaling that it’s time to remove it and pop a new one on (if needed).
Eight Saints Hit the Spot Pimple Patches
If you’re seeking a reliable, protective pimple patch that helps promote clearer-looking skin, even during active breakouts, Eight Saints’ pimple patches are the way to go. Per the brand, these super thin, hardly noticeable pimple patches with chamomile help speed up the healing process and protect the skin from dirt and bacteria. Plus, the brand notes, they’re suitable for all skin types—even sensitive skin.
AOA Skin Invisible Acne Patches
If you gave into temptation and popped that persistent pimple (we’ve all been there), clean the area well, then cover it up with one of these pimple patches. According to the brand, the adhesive stickers contain both tea tree oil and cica extract and help speed up the healing process while keeping dirt and bacteria out. Choose from two sizes: 10mm for smaller spots or 12mm for larger blemishes.
SpaLife Pretty in Pink Hydrocolloid Pimple Patches
Help reduce the appearance of blemish spots and inflammation—and look good while you do it—with these bow-shaped hydrocolloid pimple patches. The brand describes them as a fun, selfie-ready way to help shrink the appearance of whiteheads and on-the-surface pimples that start getting to work in as little as six hours.
OPostiv Hydrocolloid Pimple Patches
Give surprise breakouts the boot with these cute pimple patches, which come in an array of fun shapes and colors to brighten your mood. Each hydrocolloid patch, the brand notes, helps extract pore impurities and absorb excess oil to help flatten pimples. Per OPositiv, the salicylic acid and tea tree oil-infused stickers work best on pimples that have already come to a head, and for most, provide visible improvement overnight.
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