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Do Pimple Patches Actually Work?

December 03, 2024

Whether you prefer simple skin-toned stickers or colorful stars and smile faces, pimple patches have become a go-to solution for acne spot treatment. But are they worth the hype, or just another trend?

We asked Andrew Wong, MD, a primary care provider with Hartford HealthCare Medical Group.

How pimple patches work.

Pimple patches are made with hydrocolloid, a gummy polymer typically used in wound care to absorb fluid and promote healing. “Hydrocolloid helps draw out oil and pus from pimples, reducing inflammation,” Dr. Wong says.

It also acts as a protective barrier, preventing bacteria from entering and stopping friction that could cause scarring.

“By creating a physical barrier, they can also help prevent you from picking at the pimple, which is a common cause of scarring,” he says.

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Added ingredients can help or hurt depending on your skin.

Some patches also include ingredients like:

• Salicylic acid to reduce inflammation
• Adapalene or vitamin A to dry the acne and unclog pores
• Tea tree oil to soothe irritated skin

“These ingredients enhance healing by addressing underlying issues that lead to pimples,” adds Dr. Wong.

However, he also notes that some active ingredients can dry out and irritate the skin, so those with sensitive skin should choose patches without added ingredients.

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Pimple patches are good for spot treatment, not more serious acne.

Pimple patches are designed as spot treatments for mild acne, specifically pimples that are leaking or are about to come to a head.

“They work best on surface-level breakouts but aren’t effective for deeper acne like blackheads, cystic acne or nodules, which require more comprehensive treatments. For more severe acne, it’s best to see a dermatologist,” suggests Dr. Wong.

Dr. Wong emphasizes that “pimple patches are meant to be a quick fix, not a long-term solution or substitute for a skincare regimen.” Treatments like benzoyl peroxide combined with clindamycin typically work for widespread breakouts.

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3 best practices for pimple patch-users.

If you’ve decided pimple patches are for you, be sure to use these best practices that Dr. Wong recommends.

1. Wear the patch for at least six to eight hours, ideally overnight after cleansing the face. “Pimple patches aren’t a cure for acne, but they help with healing and preventing infection,” he adds.
2. Gently remove patches to avoid damaging skin.“Using warm water can help loosen the adhesive and make it easier to remove,” says Dr. Wong.
3. Be cautious if you have latex allergies or sensitive skin. Since pimple patches use adhesives, individuals with latex allergies or sensitivities to bandages should be cautious and check the patch’s ingredients.

For persistent or widespread acne, speak with your primary care provider or a dermatologist about stronger treatment options.