Pimple Patches: What Are They And Do They Actually Work?

We all know that dreaded feeling when the mother of all spots appears on your face. It’s almost impressive how they can just appear at the worst times too. But there may actually be a quick solution that we can all get behind.

Pimple patches, or hydrocolloid patches, to get technical about it, have been around for quite a while. But, if you haven’t come across them in your regular strolls in Boots, we’re here to give you the lowdown.

So, What Are They?

If you haven’t heard of these patches, you probably aren’t the only one. Hydrocolloid (pronounced hydro-kull-oid – we couldn’t say it either!) is an active ingredient that has been used in the medical community to help with wound healing for decades. It basically helps your skin heal from the inside out, by giving it the perfect conditions to heal in.

We all know at this stage, that we really shouldn’t be popping our pimples, but sometimes it’s just too irresistible and can’t be helped. So this is where the hydrocolloid patches come into play. The patches work to absorb any nastiness from your popped pimple, while also protecting it from any bacteria. It allows it to heal in a cleaner environment, which is key to preventing scarring and speeding up healing time too.

How Do I Use Them?

You’re best off leaving these handy little patches to work their magic while you sleep. So, cleanse your face and go ahead with your normal night time routine, then before bed, pop a patch over that pesky spot. Leave it on overnight, 8-12 hours ideally. Then, simply remove the patch in the morning and wash your face as normal.

Where Can I Buy Them?

Pimple patches don’t seem to be the easiest thing to come across, you won’t find them in your weekly Tesco shop along with your eye makeup remover. But you can buy them on some of our favourite beauty sites like Beauty Bay and Look Fantastic.

What About Acne Patches?

Acne patches are a little different. They’re that bit stronger, and instead of sucking the nasties out of your spots, they push active treatments like salicylic acid into your skin. But if you’re dealing with acne, you already know it’s probably worth trying anything, within reason of course. You can find these in the Alex Steinherr skincare collaboration with Penneys.

Are They Worth It?

These little pimple patches could be your saviour. And according to the rave reviews, they’re plenty of other people’s lifelines too. Just don’t expect them to be absolute miracle workers – they won’t get rid of your unpopped spot over night, or undo any damage caused in one go. But they will treat your spots, calm inflammation and speed up healing. Music to our ears, to be honest.

• Beauty
• Hydocolloid Pads
• Pimple Patches
• skincare