What do pimple patches do? Maybe you need to know how to use them? If you've wanted to give pimple patches a whirl but you have burning questions before doing so, allow us to provide you with the answers.
From what they are to how they work, we've got you – and your pimples – covered!
Question 1: How do pimple patches work?
Pimple patches are stickers that include hydrocolloid, which is a gel that helps to absorb the gunk in the pimple. This can usually take around 6-8 hours, so the good news is they can get to work while you sleep. They can also reduce inflammation and help your skin to heal.
These little patches are also the perfect barrier between you and your hands. It can be tempting to pick and poke zits which can make the spot infected as bacteria from your hands transfers to the skin.
Question 2: When should I apply a pimple patch?
These patches work best if you have a breakout that's close to the surface. This is because the hydrocolloid is likely to be more effective if there's a pimple to go at. For that reason, they're not likely to be effective if you're trying to treat blackheads. There are different types of pimple patches available – more on that later! – so how you use them and when you apply them will depend on the type you go for. There are patches that you can pop on overnight and others that get to work during the day.
It's worth considering your skincare routine when you apply your pimple patch, too. Take a look at our guide to help you work out where it fits in your regimen.
Question 3: What are the pimple patch do's?
- DO put patches on whiteheads
If your spot has a white centre, it’s ready to pop. Putting a pimple patch on at this stage means the gunk gets sucked into the patch and the pore won’t get infected. Leave the patch on for at least 6 hours. This gives it enough time to draw out the pus. - DO clean your face first
Make sure your face is washed and cleansed before you apply your patch. This will clear away excess dirt and give you a fresh skin surface to work with. Be sure to dry it after too so that the patch can stick easily. - DO follow the instructions
Leave the patch on for at least 6 hours. This gives it enough time to draw out the pus.
Question 4: What are the pimple patch don'ts?
- DON'T apply to bleeding or broken skin
If you have a bleeding pimple, don't apply a patch as this could add bacteria to the spot and make the infection worse. - DON'T be too eager
If the spot hasn't fully formed yet, hold off applying the patch. There isn't any gunk there for the patch to go at, plus it could trap the emerging pus inside the pimple. - DON'T remove with dirty hands
You could undo all the work you've put in by touching your post-patch pimple with dirty hands. Wash them first and carefully remove the patch. Avoid touching the pimple too, otherwise you might have to begin the process again!
Question 5: What's the difference between the different patches?
There are different patches to choose from and the ones you choose will depend on how your day looks. It might be easier to pop a patch on before bedtime, in which case the MIGHTY PATCH ™ Original could be ideal. This works in 6-8 hours, so you can sleep while your zit clears. Alternatively, MIGHTY PATCH ™ Invisible+ are thin, barely-there spot patches that help you keep your hands off your face while you get on with your daily routine.
Look at the products available at Hero Cosmetics to find the best option for you.
Find pimple patches that work at Hero Cosmetics
MIGHTY PATCH ™ is your go-to if you want to calm a spot. Dermatologically tested, these patches prevent you from picking your skin and absorb the gunk in 6-8 hours. Have questions? Get in touch with the Hero Cosmetics team or check out our FAQ page.