3 Limits to Check Before Buying More Pimple Patches

If a new spot has you planning the angle of every photo, a small patch can be an appealing purchase. Before buying another box, check what it can do for the type of spot you have.

Three limits to consider

1. Depth matters. The AAD says patches do not work on deep acne. Hydrocolloid patches are most useful on open, oozing spots; they are less effective on closed pimples and offer little help for blackheads or deeper whiteheads. Do not pop a spot to make it suit a patch.¹²
2. The patch itself can irritate. Adhesive can aggravate skin that is sensitive or allergic to it. Some patches add ingredients such as salicylic acid or tea tree oil, which may irritate an already irritated area. Check the product and your skin’s response.²
3. A patch does not prevent the next breakout. Patches have limited use in an overall acne plan. Follow the specific wearing instructions, and ask about broader treatment if breakouts keep returning.²

Bring the product question into the appointment

Keep a photo of the packet and the ingredient list. Explain the spot you use it on, how often you apply it and what you notice when removing it. Add any other treatments used on the same area.

You can ask: “Is this patch useful for these spots, and what is the plan for the ones it doesn’t help?” That gives the clinician two clear questions to answer.

If acne is painful, deep or leaving scars, consult a dermatologist before it worsens.¹

Skin, Head to Toe includes a short-shelf planner, label decoder and 12-week SkinLog. Use them to organize the products and skin concerns you want reviewed. See the book.