How Do Pimple Patches Work?

What are pimple patches?

A pimple patch is a small sticker that forms an adhesive layer over a blemish. Pimple patches have their origins in the Korean beauty market, but they have since cemented themselves as a mainstream beauty staple all over the world. Today, pimple patches are readily available online or at your local drugstore.

So, what are pimple patches made of? Patches are typically formulated with hydrocolloid. In addition to hydrocolloid, you’ll often find pimple patches with blemish-targeting ingredients such as salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, tea tree oil, and niacinamide.

What do pimple patches do?

There’s a common misconception that pimple patches ‘extract’ pus from a pimple – but this isn’t true. So, how do pimple patches work?

A pimple patch acts as a shield for your blemish, preventing picking and thus keeping out harmful bacteria that might exacerbate a pimple. This includes dirt, oil, makeup, pollution and other debris that you’re exposed to throughout the day.

What are the benefits of pimple patches?

When you cover your blemish with a pimple patch, it provides several benefits. A pimple patch:

• Keeps the area moisturised.
• Prevents dirt, makeup, and external pollution from reaching your pimple.
• Deters you from picking your spot – which can introduce oil and dirt to the area and put you at greater risk of developing post-blemish marks.
• Hides seamlessly under makeup.

What ingredients are used in pimple patches?

Still asking do pimple patches actually work? Let’s take a closer look at some common pimple patch ingredients that reduce the occurrence of pimples.

• Hydrocolloid: forming the basis of your protective pimple shield, hydrocolloid comforts the skin and maintains optimum moisture levels under the patch. It’s also ideal for dry and sensitive skin.
  
  
• Salicylic acid: a beloved ingredient with a strong reputation for combating blemishes, salicylic acid is oil soluble. This enables it to deeply penetrate the skin surface to target clogged pores.
  
  
• Benzoyl peroxide: this potent ingredient helps unclog pores and exfoliate dead skin cells, though it is often too harsh for sensitive skin types.
  
  
• Niacinamide: a form of vitamin B3, niacinamide is renowned for its ability to regulate oil production, strengthen the skin moisture barrier, and visibly fade post-blemish marks.

Do pimple patches work on blind pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads?

Pimple patches are most effective on surface-level blemishes with a visible head – like whiteheads. They are not designed for use on blackheads or deeper, blind pimples. However, you might still find it beneficial to use a hydrocolloid patch to minimise the spread of bacteria from your makeup or fingers, prevent touching, and keep the areas moisturised.

We like to think of pimple patches as the skincare sidekick to your main hero products – and they shouldn’t replace a targeted routine for blemish-prone skin.

How to use pimple patches alongside your skincare routine

Ultra-thin and designed to be invisible on all skin tones, Garnier’s 8H Invisible Blemish Patch is the perfect accessory to your anti-blemish skincare routine. For tips on how to use a pimple patch alongside your skincare, simply follow the below steps.

1. Double cleanse: wash your face with a cleanser for blemish-prone skin like the Charcoal Cleansing Gel. This formula combines salicylic acid and blueberry extract to regulate sebum, unclog blackheads, and remove other impurities. Cleansing twice will ensure that all impurities are removed from the skin before you apply other products.
   
   
2. Stick on your pimple patch: always apply your pimple patch to clean, dry skin – this will ensure it adheres to your skin. You can then apply other skincare and makeup over and around your pimple patch without any fuss.
   
   
3. Apply a targeted serum: disperse a few drops of the Pure Active AHA+BHA Charcoal Anti-Blemish Serum onto your face to minimise the appearance of pimples, post-blemish marks, and other textural concerns.
   
   
4. Hydrate with a moisturiser: hydration is essential for all skin types – even oilier ones. Opt for the Pure Active AHA + Salicylic Acid Daily Mattifying Air Cream Moisturiser which hydrates and smooths while regulating excess sebum.

Once you reach the end of your routine, you’ll be forgiven for wondering: how long do pimple patches take to work? Well, it’s best to leave your pimple patch on for four to eight hours to keep your blemishes protected during the work day, school day, or overnight.

Now that you know how pimple patches work, discover the benefits of skin cycling to target your unique skin concerns.