Healing acne takes time, so when it comes to finding the right treatment options, it should come as no surprise there aren’t too many quick fixes. But when it comes to spot treatments, there’s one product that might actually help yield overnight results: pimple patches.
Pimple patches aren’t a cure-all for acne, but for certain kinds of pimples, these small but mighty patches can be very effective at curbing inflammation and speeding up the healing process.
We asked experts to break down the science behind pimple patches, how they can be used as part of an acne management plan and a few tips to get the most out of using them.
What do pimple patches do?
Pimple patches are small, self-adhesive mini-bandages that are designed to draw out fluid, sebum and pus from a pimple, says Dr. Susan Massick, a board-certified dermatologist at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. “The goal is to help foster faster healing, and a quicker resolution of your pimples,” she says.
If you’re prone to skin picking, wearing a pimple patch creates a physical barrier that protects the pimple from further inflammation. “It’s very tempting to touch your face, pick at a pimple, scratch and sometimes squeeze them,” says Massick. “This causes more inflammation, more redness and slows down the healing process.” So, if you’re able to prevent that from happening, your pimple could potentially resolve quicker.
That same barrier protects your skin from possible infection, reduces your risk of scarring and allows the pimple to heal on its own, says Dr. Elle de Moll, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Elite Dermatology Physicians in New Canaan, Connecticut.
How do pimple patches work?
Pimple patches mimic the same technology that’s used in hydrocolloid wound dressings. The moisture-retaining inner layer is lined with ingredients like gelatin, pectin and sodium carboxymethyl cellulose that transform into a gel when the patch absorbs fluid and pus from a pimple, per Healthline. The waterproof outer layer of the patch helps create a sealed environment for the pimple to heal, says Massick.
Once applied, pimple patches create a moist environment that promotes wound healing. As the patch gets to work, it draws the fluid out of the pimple and decreases inflammation, says de Moll.
Some pimple patches come pre-loaded with active ingredients like benzoyl peroxide. While these could be effective for some people, there might be a risk for burning and irritation, which could further aggravate the pimple. If you have sensitive skin, it’s probably best to use pimple patches that aren’t formulated with actives that could potentially irritate your skin, recommends de Moll.
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How effective are pimple patches?
Ultimately, this comes down to the type of pimple you’re attempting to treat. Pimple patches are most effective at treating smaller pimples that appear on or just under the surface of the skin, Massick says.
Pimple patches aren’t very effective at treating deeper, cystic pimples or blackheads. Nodulocystic acne typically requires a prescription strength topical or oral medication that can be prescribed by your dermatologist, says Massick. Treatment for blackheads usually consists of a mix of using a retinoid and extractions, adds de Moll.
Did you read? Cystic acne can cause pain, shame and lasting scars. Here’s what causes it.
How to use pimple patches
When it comes to application, here’s a few expert-approved tips on how to get the most out of using a pimple patch:
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Start with a clean canvas. Before applying the pimple patch, cleanse your skin to remove any makeup, sunscreen and heavy skincare products from your face, and pat dry. “If we haven’t cleaned the skin, it’s not going to create an effective healing environment,” says de Moll. It’s also wise to try a patch test first elsewhere on your skin, as some people could be sensitive to the adhesive, says Massick.
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Hold off on skincare until after you’ve applied the patch. Avoid using serums and heavy moisturizers under the pimple patch, says de Moll. These products can get in the way of the pimple patch being able to properly adhere to your skin, and effectively draw out the fluid from the pimple.
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Set it, and forget it. Apply the patch to your pimple, and leave it on ideally between 12 to 24 hours, says de Moll. It’s time to change the patch once you see a lot of white spots appear (which indicates it has effectively absorbed fluid from the pimple) or it starts to lose its stick adhesive, says Massick. After you’ve removed the patch, gently cleanse your skin, and apply a new patch where appropriate.
Pimple patches can create a healthy environment for healing a pimple, and effectively flatten inflamed pimples that sit on the surface of your skin. However, it’s important to point out that they won’t address the underlying cause of why someone might be experiencing acne. If your acne is persistent or severe, it’s a good idea to talk to your dermatologist who can offer individualized treatment options.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: How do pimple patches work? And expert tips for application
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