Pimple Patch

What is a pimple patch?

A pimple patch – also called an acne patch or spot sticker – is a small, round patch made of hydrocolloid. The material comes from wound care: it absorbs fluid and creates a moist, protected environment in which the skin can heal better. Pimple patches are one of the great K-beauty classics.

How do pimple patches work?

• Absorbing: the hydrocolloid draws pus and fluid out of open spots. In the morning you’ll often see a white dot in the patch.
• Protecting: the patch shields the spot from dirt, bacteria and make-up.
• No picking: as long as the patch is on, you won’t touch the spot. This lowers the risk of inflammation and dark marks.
• Covering: thin patches are barely visible and can be worn during the day too.

What types are there?

• Classic hydrocolloid patches such as the Acne Pimple Master Patch from COSRX – for spots with a visible white head.
• Patches with active ingredients such as Centella Asiatica, tea tree oil or salicylic acid, which soothe as well.
• Microdart patches with tiny tips that deliver ingredients into deeper, closed spots.
• Extra-thin patches such as the Clear Fit Master Patch for daytime.

How to use pimple patches

1. Cleanse your face and let the spot dry well – patches don’t stick to skin that has just been moisturised.
2. Press a patch of the right size onto the spot without touching the adhesive side with your fingers.
3. Leave it on for at least six to eight hours or overnight.
4. Once the patch has turned white, peel it off and apply a new one if needed.

Tip: apply toner, serum and cream only after the patch, around it.

When do pimple patches help – and when not?

Classic patches work best on surface spots with a white head and on spots that are already open. They do little for deep, painful spots under the skin – microdart patches or ingredients such as BHA are better there. Patches aren’t meant for blackheads. If you have frequent or severe acne, it’s worth seeing a dermatologist.

Pimple patches in Korean skincare

Hardly any product is as typical of K-beauty as the pimple patch – the Acne Pimple Master Patch from COSRX has been a classic for years. From our range: various Master Patches from COSRX, the 30 Days Miracle Clear Spot Patch from SOME BY MI, the Cica Spot Patch from VT, the Wonder Releaf Centella Spot Patch from Purito and the Star Spot Patch from OOTD. You’ll find them all under Pimple Patches.

What does the research say?

In a small randomised double-blind study with acne patients, a hydrocolloid patch improved the skin more than a comparison patch (Chao et al., Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2006). There are no larger studies yet.