17 Pimple Patches That Actually Work

As you browse the web for pimple patches, you’ll notice one word appearing in each box: hydrocolloid. “Pimple patches contain hydrocolloid gel which has powerful wound healing properties. It works to absorb excess fluid and remove excess dirt, oil, and sebum, helping to quickly reduce the appearance of blackheads,” explains Lauren Penzi, MD, MD. Of course, many patches are formulated with other familiar ingredients found in your daily skin care products.

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

Just like sticking a sticker on a computer or book, acne patches work in a similar way. However, you will need to prep your skin beforehand to ensure you get the most out of your pimple patches. Dr. Penzi suggests applying acne patches at night, just before you go to bed.

“After removing your makeup, cleaning your face, and making sure 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 cleaning your face again to remove any pus or bacteria,” she says.

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

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

Nerisha Penrose is the Beauty Trade Editor at ELLE.com. Since she joined ELLE.com in 2017, she has interviewed countless skincare professionals and personally tested the latest and greatest makeup, skincare, and haircare products.