This Is Why Pimple Patches Don’t Work for Your Acne
Dos and don’ts
Acne patches not pulling their weight in pus? It might be a skill issue—below, find our guide to the dos and don’ts of patching your pimples.
We’ve come a long way with spot treatments, and—believe us—that’s cause for celebration. Gone are the days of DIY vinegar treatments that burn through your flesh, stinky sulfur pastes for your senses to suffer through, and desperate toothpaste remedies that do more harm than good. Today’s acne solutions are sophisticated and effective, designed to tackle flourishing and budding blemishes alike.
READ: The Best Acne and Spot Treatments To Help Curb Your Breakouts
Ruling above all treatments is the humble pimple patch. Whether it’s plain and simple or decorative and fun, one thing is for sure: it works. Typically made of hydrocolloid material, pimple patches absorb excess fluids and promote healing, all while protecting the inflamed spot. Sounds too good to be true? In the wrong hands, it can be.
That’s why we’re here to put you on the right track. If you’d like to ensure that you’re getting the most out of your pimple patches (with no risk to your complexion), heed our advice. Ahead, find the biggest dos and don’ts of wearing pimple patches:
View this post on Instagram
Do: Apply the patch on clean, dry skin
Clean, dry skin is a non-negotiable when it comes to pimple patches, and that applies to both your face and hands. Why? Firstly, your patches need a clean canvas to stick to so that they can work properly. Secondly, consider that these patches trap whatever lies on your skin in place. So, unless you want to let your zit cook in sweat and grime, make sure you’re giving your complexion a deep cleanse.
If you would like to apply a patch over skincare to “supercharge” your treatment, per se, you can. Just stick to lightweight formulations (such as watery serums) that absorb well, and ensure that you’re letting the product soak into your skin properly before applying a patch over it. Alternatively, use patches infused with active ingredients like tea tree or salicylic acid for a spot-busting boost.
TRY: Modules Invisible Acne Patches, RM15
Don’t: Use your fingers to pick up the patch
When it comes to getting the perfect seal on your pimple patch, tweezers are a must. Unfortunately, fingers tend to be a little finicky to work with, especially with tiny patches. That, and the oil from your fingers can make your patches less sticky and thus less effective. Trust us, it’s just more convenient to opt for tweezers instead.
Do: Pick the right size for your pimple
To get the most out of your patch, choosing the right size is crucial. In short, you’ll want to look for a pimple patch that actually covers your blemish. Too small a patch means you won’t get a good seal on your zit, and too big a patch is just wasteful!
TRY: La Roche Posay Effaclar DUO+M Acne Patch, RM49.90
Don’t: Leave your patch on for too long
The logic is there—the longer you leave a patch on, the more pus gets sucked out, right? Wrong. Leaving your pimple patches on for too long can lead to skin irritation, redness, and dryness, as well as a shiny red mark that won’t go away for weeks (we learned this the hard way). To avoid this, leave your patch on for no more than 12 hours, or remove it once it has gone white or come loose.
View this post on Instagram
Do: Use them on whiteheads
When it comes to your bog-standard pimple patches, you’re unlikely to see great results on deep cysts or deep pimples. As such, they’re best reserved for surfaced whiteheads. That said, you can treat cysts or unheaded pimples with specialised patches fitted with microdarts that actually penetrate deep into the skin. Just make sure that you consult your dermatologist to see if it’s the best treatment option for your skin.
TRY: Dododots Fruit Partay Pimple Patches, RM18
Don’t: Be afraid to wear them in public
With all the cute designs and styles of pimple patches on offer these days, there’s no reason to be shy about your spots! Instead, turn them into a statement accessory. Whether it’s salicylic acid stars or tiny little Powerpuff Girls-themed patches, the options are endless!
Do: Use a hydrocolloid wound dressing in a bind
As we’ve mentioned, hydrocolloid wound dressing is made of the same material your acne patch is made from—the only difference is that it’s not as cute! In a pinch, you can cut up your hydrocolloid dressings to fit your zits (PS: this is also a good option for any oddly-shaped or oversized zits).
TRY: Goteskin Clear-It Acne Patches 12s, RM12.50
For more skincare reads, click here.
| SHARE THE STORY | |
| Explore More |
