Hydrocolloid patches, or pimple patches, have gained massive popularity in the last year. Even though many struggle to understand how they work, you will find these sneaky hidden patches under bangs or make-up. While it does sound like a dream discovery, would you prefer using these acne patches instead of a simple spot treatment using your favourite ingredient?
The word out there is that it actually works–but how do you use it? Plus, there is a good chance you might become a ‘pimple patch hater’ if you use the wrong kind of patch on the wrong type of pimple. We are here to explain the different types of patches, how they work, and the best ones available in the market right now…
How Do Pimple Patches Work?
Pimple patches come in many kinds of make. Some are mini, medicated skin stickers that carry salicylic acid, tea tree oil, and benzoyl peroxide. They help flatten zits and, of course, stop you from touching and popping them. Others only aim to absorb the gunk out of the inflamed pimple, keep the skin moist, and don’t contain any ingredients. And then some have micro darts, tiny needles made of targeted ingredients for your zit. These needles penetrate gently into the heart of the pimple and dissolve inside, healing that nasty visitor quickly.
Do These Patches Work For All Kinds Of Acne?
The answer is NO. It’s not going to work for you if you have severe, stubborn acne. Hydrocolloid patches don’t work on cystic acne because they are deep under your skin, and topical patches cannot help. If you have a random pimple here and there or one persistent spot that isn’t ready to leave, you can slap on one of these patches, and it’ll definitely help. But if you have significant acne showing up for weeks, these patches won’t work for you. You’ll need to see a dermatologist and get proper treatment for it.
Managing Expectations With Pimple Patches
Even with tiny zits, pimple patches don’t work miraculously, but they do reasonably. It will not diminish your pimple overnight or reverse all the harm you’ve caused your skin while picking at the pimple. But it will definitely help with the inflammation, accelerate the healing process and most crucial, it’ll stop you from popping the pimple and causing further permanent damage to your skin. We think that’s a fair deal!
How Do You Use A Pimple Patch?
Always cleanse your face thoroughly before putting on a patch. Wash all your make-up, oil and dirt off your face first because you don’t want the bacteria to get trapped between your patch and skin. If you wear make-up, you can cleanse your face, slap on a pimple patch, and then do your make-up over the patch. Since most of the patches are opaque, they naturally conceal your zits by flattening them. You do not have to clog your pores with layers of concealer and foundation.
Which Acne Patch To Use On Which Pimple?
It all depends on the type of skin and pimple you have. Depending on the ingredients of the patch, go ahead and choose one for yourself. Salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide work well for a spot that’s already on the surface. Niacinamide works well for a zit that has already lived its life and is on its way to death. It’ll hasten the entire process. And if you just want to stop yourself from picking or popping a blemish, then a simple hydrocolloid patch will also work for you.
In conclusion
Pimple patches work not miraculously, but reasonably . They are a great alternative to spot treatment creams if you are stepping out. Just make sure to follow your usual skin hygiene to let the patches do their job well. They are also an excellent way to protect active spots from make-up, granted you are using the right kind.
Photos: Instagram
