Pimple Patch 101 Guide
If you’re tapped into the skincare market, chances are that you’ve encountered pimple patches by now. If so, you wouldn’t be the first person to wonder if they actually work – and how. Managing blemish-prone skin can be an arduous task, but a pimple patch can give you a little extra protection and targeted care during the day or night. In the following guide, Kiehl’s experts are here to unveil the essential facts about pimple patches, help you discover which are the best pimple patches for your unique skin type and concern, and how you can use them alongside your usual skincare regime.
What Is A Pimple Patch?
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How Do Pimple Patches Work?
As the name implies, pimple patches are used to target blemishes, but what do pimple patches do for your skin? A pimple patch primarily works by forming a protective barrier over your blemish and keeping it free from debris. When applied to dry skin, the patch soaks up excess fluid like dirt and oil from the pimple and eventually turns white in the centre once it’s ‘full’. After use, the pimple tends to appear flatter. Patches that are infused with blemish-fighting ingredients (like salicylic acid and niacinamide) may also diminish redness and swelling. At a simple level, a pimple patch is designed to foster a healthier environment for healing. However, if you are building a skincare routine specifically for blemish-prone skin, it’s important to remember that pimple patches are not a total fix – you’ll still need your targeted cleanser, serums and moisturiser as a baseline.
Different Types Of Pimple Patches
Like with any skincare product, pimple patches are most efficacious when they’re tailored to your skin type. Ingredients differ between patches, and what works for oily skin may be too harsh for dry or sensitive skin types. As such, we’ve broken down the various types of patches to help you determine which pimple patch is right for you.
Hydrocolloid patches: this type of patch focuses on absorbing excess fluid and delivering comfort to the skin – making it ideal for a range of skin types, including dry and sensitive. This works best for whiteheads and surface-level blemishes that look ready to ‘pop’.
Medicated patches: these pimple patches tend to contain active ingredients for targeting pimples like salicylic acid, benzyl peroxide, and tea tree oil. However, it should be noted that these ingredients may be too drying on certain skin types and could increase sensitivity.
Microneedle patches: designed for deeper blemishes, microneedle patches have serum-dissolving micro needles that deliver potent anti-blemish ingredients below the skin’s surface.
Liquid patches: as an alternative to traditional patches, invisible liquid pimple patches are a spot solution enriched with anti-blemish ingredients. Kiehl’s Truly Targeted Blemish Solution is formulated with salicylic acid and niacinamide to diminish the appearance of blemishes. This sport solution utilises ‘liquid patch’ technology to create an invisible yet protective seal over blemishes, allowing for deep absorption of ingredients.
The Benefits Of Using Pimple Patches
Since our loyal pimple patch acts as a protective layer over a blemish, there are a number of advantages to using them as a back up to a targeted skincare ritual:
- They prevent external bacteria from reaching the blemish and aggravating the area.
- Dermatologists caution against picking or squeezing because it can lead to post-blemish marks (and introduce bacteria) – this makes pimple patches the perfect deterrent if you’re prone to squeezing your spots.
- Between transparent patches and invisible liquid pimple patch spot treatments, there are a number of discreet options for day or nighttime use.
- Makeup glides over pimple patches so you don’t have to worry about cosmetics clogging the pore.
How To Use Pimple Patches
When applying a pimple patch, it’s important to use it correctly so the adhesive sticks to your skin and protects your blemishes. Liquid pimple patches also work best when applied at a specific point in your skincare routine. Whichever option you choose for your skin – standard patch or liquid patch – both are conveniently designed for morning or night use. Continue reading for our top tips on pimple patch effectiveness.
Apply To Clean, Dry Skin
Since the aim is to protect your blemish from dirt and bacteria, you should only apply your pimple patch to clean skin. You can secure your patch over your blemish after you have completed your skincare routine and the skin is sufficiently dry. This will ensure that the patch gently fuses to the skin’s surface.
If using Kiehl’s Truly Targeted Blemish solution, you can also apply at the end of your skincare. Take one drop on your fingertip and apply directly onto your pimple, taking care to avoid over-rubbing. Allow the serum to fully dry before applying sunscreen or cosmetics.
Leave On For 6-8 Hours
You might ask, ‘how long do pimple patches take to work?’. A pimple patch is best left on for 6-8 hours. Since many patches have potent ingredients, we recommend that you don’t exceed 8 hours since it could cause discomfort or sensitisation. This window of time makes patches perfect to wear during sleep, but if your pesky spot has reared its head overnight, patches are subtle enough for daytime use so you can apply makeup over the top.
If you loved this pimple patch guide, uncover Kiehl’s expert advice on how to get clear skin.
SHOP THIS ARTICLE
Expertly Clear Blemish-Targeting & Preventing Lotion
A hydrating pimple spot treatment with 1.2% Salicylic Acid and 2% Niacinamide specifically formulated to target blemishes and help prevent future breakouts.
Ultra Pure High-Potency 1.5% Hyaluronic Acid Serum
A concentrated 1.5% Hyaluronic Acid serum for dry skin made with only 7 ingredients that helps replenish and retain moisture for healthy-looking, hydrated skin.
Truly Targeted Blemish Solution
An invisible liquid pimple patch with 2% Salicylic Acid that’s specifically formulated to visibly reduce pimple size, colour and post-acne marks.
Super Multi-Corrective Soft Cream
A supercharged 7-in-1 lightweight anti-ageing moisturizer that’s scientifically proven to visibly firm and lift skin, reduce the appearance of wrinkles, boost radiance, improve elasticity, create a more even texture and tone, and contribute to a healthier-looking skin appearance.
