Dealing with hormonal changes can lead to pesky hormonal acne for us ladies. The usual fix? Slap on a pimple patch after your skincare routine to tackle those stubborn bumps.
But, ever noticed those pesky pimples persisting or, worse, evolving into craters? If you feel your pimple patches aren’t doing the job, there might be a misstep in how you’re using them.
No worries! We’ve got some handy tips for applying these patches that could make a big difference in how you handle future pimple problems.
Stay tuned for this important advice — you won’t want to miss it!
How Pimple Patches Work
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A “pimple patch” is a broad term, usually referring to a spot treatment that uses a thin hydrocolloid bandage or sticker in different sizes to soak up fluid from a blemish.
Some of these patches might include ingredients aimed at treating acne and promoting skin healing. The hydrocolloid creates a moist environment, speeding up the healing process by pulling out excess fluid from the pimple.
When it comes into contact with fluids, the material swells, forming a gel-like substance that absorbs impurities and stops further infection.
Hydrocolloid pimple patches might also pack in salicylic acid, known for its exfoliating properties, as well as other beneficial ingredients like tea tree oil, hyaluronic acid, centella asiatica, and retinol.
Why Pimple Patches Might Worsen Pimples
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If your acne patches aren’t doing the trick, it might be because you’re layering strong active ingredients, like retinol and exfoliating acids, under those hydrocolloid patches.
While combining pimple patches with other skincare products is typically safe, it’s essential to pay attention to the nature and composition of your active skincare products.
In an article by Refinery29, Esthetician, Renée Rouleau, suggests considering potential irritation from other skincare products, especially those with known side effects.
f removing a patch results in a red mark, it is advisable to stop using it. Pimple patches work well for whiteheads and surface-level blemishes, but they might not pack the same punch for deeper cystic acne.
If you’ve been using them consistently without seeing results, it could be worthwhile to explore other spot treatments.
Related Read: 19 Pimple Creams in Malaysia to Get in 2024 for Clearer Skin
Risks of Using Pimple Patches
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As much as we love the ease of slapping on a pimple patch and calling it a day, it’s crucial to be aware of potential downsides.
Allergies to the hydrocolloid material or adhesives aren’t unheard of. If you have sensitive skin or existing conditions like eczema or rosacea, you might react to active ingredients such as salicylic acid.
Before diving into face patches, do a little patch test on your wrist – better safe than sorry! The goal is to see less redness and swelling. But if you notice more redness, swelling, or pain, it’s advisable to seek medical attention.
Tips for Applying Pimple Patches
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- Avoid Oil-Based Products: Pimple patches adhere best to clean, dry skin. Avoid applying oil-based products before using a patch, as it can reduce adhesion.
- Skip Retinoids on Patched Areas: If using retinoids, avoid applying them where you’ve used a pimple patch, as retinoids may increase the risk of irritation.
- Be Mindful of Exfoliating Products and Fragrance: Chemical exfoliants or fragrances may irritate the skin when combined with a patch.
- Keep Surrounding Skin Moisturised: While heavy moisturisers are a no-go directly on the patch, keep the surrounding area moisturised to support the skin barrier.
- It’s a Patch, Not A Pore Strip: No ripping and tearing here! Remove the patch gently to avoid traumatising the skin. Forcibly ripping it off can worsen inflammation and harm the healing process.
- Read The Directions: Yes, those tiny words on the back of the box matter. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions, apply with clean hands on oil-free skin, and change the patch as directed – not when you remember!
Now armed with these simple tips, you’re all set to make the most out of your pimple patches and say goodbye to those stubborn bumps!
Featured image credits: @dewylouie/TikTok, @skinbyshiv/TikTok, @haniehazs/TikTok.
Related Read: 16 best acne patches that heal pimples overnight – some are almost invisible on the skin
