Whether you have acne-prone skin or a few pesky pimples that need some extra treatment, using acne patches is a great way to help clear them out and keep these unwanted occurrences at bay.
However, as with pretty much anything nowadays, there are many different types of pimple patches available, each with its own unique set of benefits.
So, let’s start by explaining the most popular ones as this will give you the gist of what you need to know about pimple patches and simplify your decision-making process.
One of the most popular acne patches today is the hydrocolloid pimple patch. This type of acne treatment uses a unique adhesive that helps absorb acne-causing sebum while also protecting the affected area from bacteria and other external irritants.
Another popular option are acne patches with active ingredients such as salicylic acid that dissolve impurities and excess sebum from inside the pores while also providing a soothing effect.
Furthermore, if you’re looking for an acne treatment that is gentle enough for daily use, consider acne patches that contain gentler, non-irritating, and natural ingredients such as tea tree oil, arnica, Centella Asiatica, cica, aloe vera, etc., as these can be worn both overnight or during the day to help clear acne and prevent new breakouts.
Overall, there are many different acne patches available today, each with its own unique set of benefits.
The best thing to do when trying to find the one that will become your holy grail is to do a lot of research that includes reading reviews from consumers who have used these products and are willing to share their experiences with others, as well as understanding the active ingredients used in each product as this can certainly help you figure out what might be the best option for you.
And when in doubt, you should always consult with a dermatologist for advice on the best acne treatments that will work for your unique skin concerns.
To make everything easier for your pimple patching journey, I’ve compiled a list of the ten best pimple patches, acne stickers, dots, customizable treatments drenched in active ingredients, and many more options for specific skin concerns.
Read on to learn about the benefits of each type of acne patch, as well as how to choose the right one for your individual needs.
How I Reviewed Each Product
Acne patches have been blowing up in popularity for some time now, therefore, as a certified esthetician, I decided to hop on the wagon and see what all the jazz was about.
Fast forward a few months, and many pimple patches later, I created this list where I mention a variety of products based on skin type and specific skin concerns.
Additionally, I reviewed the below-mentioned acne patches based on their ingredients, effectiveness, ease of use, and overall customer reviews.
Whether you need an acne patch that provides quick relief from painful pimples or a long-term acne treatment option that targets acne-causing bacteria and excess sebum, there is an acne patch out there that will help you achieve clear, healthy skin.
Therefore, without any further ado, here are my top ten pimple patches for acne:
| Best: | Pimple Patch |
| Overall | Aeno Acne – Hydrocolloid Acne Patches with Salicylic Acid |
| On a Budget | Hero Cosmetics – Mighty Patch |
| High-End Pimple Patch | Peter Thomas Roth Acne – Clear Invisible Dots |
| Custom Pimple Patch | Hanhoo – DermaFix Blemish Custom Patch |
| For Cystic Acne | Peach Slices – Deep Blemish Micro Darts |
| For Hormonal Acne | ZitSticka – KILLA Kit Deep Zit Micro Dart Patch |
| For Oily Skin | Nexcare – Acne Absorbing Cover |
| For Acne Scars | Peace Out – Acne Healing Dots |
| For Dark Spots | Mario Badescu – Drying Patch |
| Korean Pimple Patch | Cosrx – Pimple Master Patch |
Best Overall:
Aeno Acne – Hydrocolloid Acne Patches with Salicylic Acid
These acne patches utilize hydrocolloid technology, which helps absorb excess oil from inflamed pimples while providing a protective layer over the blemish and preventing bacterial overgrowth.
GoodGlow Score
Includes Salicylic Acid
Calms the pimple and keeps you from accidentally scratching or picking at the bump.
Dissolves dead skin cells
That would otherwise plug and clog up your skin pores.
How to Use
Unroll a fresh hydrocolloid patch and place it securely on the bump, zit or pimple and let it sit undisturbed for between 12 and 24 hours.
Prevents the acne from spreading
To other unaffected parts of your face by making sure the blackhead heals off as soon as possible.
Salicylic Acid, Tea Tree Oil, Arnica Oil, Hyaluronic Acid, Hydrocolloid
Aeno Acne’s salicylic acid acne patches are a top choice for acne patches, thanks to their high effectiveness and ease of use.
Additionally, the acne patches contain salicylic acid, which is a proven acne-fighting ingredient that can help clear acne-prone skin.
Furthermore, each patch is infused with anti-inflammatory tea-tree oil and arnica, a herbal extract that has been shown to help reduce swelling and redness.
Each package contains 120 acne patches in two sizes so that you can choose the right size patch for your blemish.
Overall, if you are looking for a high-quality acne patch that is effective and easy to use, Aeno Acne Hydrocolloid Acne Patches with Salicylic Acid should be at the top of your list.
Best on a Budget:
Hero Cosmetics – Mighty Patch
The Hero Cosmetics Might Patches are small, invisible patches that you can stick onto a pimple in the case of an emergency and make it disappear within a few hours. Each pimple patch is made from a medical-grade hydrocolloid, which is a gel that absorbs pus (the white head) from a pimple.
GoodGlow Score
Better Overnight
Hydrocolloid sticker that improves the look of pimples overnight without the popping
Results in 6-8 Hours
Absorbs pimple gunk thanks to our medical-grade hydrocolloid. Clinically tested, drug-free, and safe for all skin types.
Suitable for Whiteheads
Perfect for whiteheads (the “poppable” kind of pimple). Not recommended for cystic pimples or blackheads.
100% Gentle
All natural, drug-free, cruelty-free, and vegan-friendly.
Hydrocolloid
Besides making pimples disappear, these patches also work as a protective barrier to prevent you from picking at your pimples and protect the microscopic wound that occurs when the head of a pimple is open.
This will prevent bacteria from entering the pore and potentially causing more damage.
Each Hero Cosmetics Might Patches package contains 36 patches in different sizes to customize the perfect fit for your pimple.
Best High-End Pimple Patch:
Peter Thomas Roth Acne-Clear Invisible Dots
Peter Thomas Roth’s Acne-Clear Invisible Dots are acne patches that use hydrocolloid technology to quickly treat acne and provide the perfect protective barrier for your pimples. These acne patches can be used for both blackheads and whiteheads, but they are also an excellent choice if you have a stubborn blemish that just won’t go away.
GoodGlow Score
Salicylic Acid
Clear acne dots with 0.5% Salicylic Acid help reduce the appearance of blemishes as they help contain the affected area.
Hydrating
Tea Tree Oil helps purify while Hyaluronic Acid hydrates.
Effective
Helps reduce the look of blemishes in as few as 8 hours.
How to Use
Clean and dry affected area. Apply dot to blemish, covering completely. Pat edges to secure and contain blemish.
- 0.5 Percent Salicylic Acid (BHA): Over-the-counter level clears up acne blemishes and blackheads.
- Tea Tree Oil: An essential oil with natural toning properties that helps purify the look of skin.
- Hyaluronic Acid: Provides lightweight yet effective hydration.
Salicylic Acid 0.5%, Acrylates Copolymer, Alcohol Denat., Butylene Glycol, Epilobium Angustifolium Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Phenoxyethanol, Phytosphingosine, Polysorbate 80, Pvp, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Metabisulfite, Vinyl Caprolactam/Vp/Dimethylaminoethyl Methacrylate Copolymer, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Extract, Volcanic Ash, Water.
Each acne patch is infused with acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid and tea tree extract, which will help clear acne-prone skin while also providing relief from acne-induced irritation.
Additionally, hydrating hyaluronic acid helps keep acne-prone skin from drying out, which can make acne worse in many instances.
Plus, the acne patches are invisible once they are applied, so you won’t have to worry about them showing through your makeup or making your blemishes stand out more!
Lastly, each package contains 72 patches in two different sizes.
So if you are looking for an acne patch that is high quality and invisible, Peter Thomas Roth’s Acne-Clear Invisible Dots are a great option.
Best Custom Pimple Patch:
Hanhoo – DermaFix Blemish Custom Patch
Hanhoo’s DermaFix Blemish Custom Patch is the best product for clustered acne and can be used in areas such as the jawline, temples, forehead, cheeks, chest, back, and bum, where there are typically multiple breakouts at one time.
GoodGlow Score
Effective
Drug-free treatment that helps reduce inflammation and redness in those blemish clusters on the skin.
Hydrocolloid
A super absorbent material that helps absorb pus and impurities from your pimple while also serving as a protective barrier.
Safe and Sanitary
Safe to use in all skin types at any age and it’s safe for pregnant women suffering from acne.
How to Use
Recommended to use these patches for no more than 6-8 hours.
Hydrocolloid
This acne patch is entirely made from a hydrocolloid material, which is the only ingredient on the list, and a gel that absorbs pus from pimples while providing a protective barrier over the blemish.
Unlike other pimple patches, which often only cover a single blemish, Hanhoo’s DermaFix Blemish Custom Patch comes in a package that contains two patches that can be fully customized by cutting and shaping them to fit your individual needs.
Best Pimple Patch for Cystic Acne:
Peach Slices – Deep Blemish Micro Darts
Micro darts are the newest rage in the world of skincare, and Peach Slices’ pimple patches hopped on the wagon of using the new technology and creating one of the best treatments for those deep, cystic acne that never really come to a head but instead cause massive swelling, discoloration, and discomfort in the surrounding area.
GoodGlow Score
Effective
Sticker-like hydrocolloid acts as a protective cover over the treated area to make the blemish visibly smaller in less than one day.
Great Ingredients
Saturated with clarifying salicylic acid, tea tree and willow bark, plus soothing niacinamide and cica, all in a hyaluronic acid hydrating base.
Cruelty-Free
made with a clean alcohol-free formula and does not contain harmful chemicals, and are cruelty-free and vegan.
Suitable for all skin types
Dry, oily, normal, and combination.
- Salicylic Acid: a beta hydroxy acid that reduces blemishes by penetrating and exfoliating the skin and keeping pores clear of dead skin cells, sebum, and other blockages
- Centella Asiatica Extract: antioxidant-rich botanical, also known as “Cica,” that visibly soothes and calms the appearance of the skin
- Tea Tree Oil: naturally helps reduce signs of inflammation and targets blemishes
- Niacinamide: a form of Vitamin B3 with anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative benefits; creates a visibly brighter appearance and targets dark spots
Sodium Hyaluronate, 1,3-Butylene Glycol, Niacinamide, Salicylic Acid, Centella Asiatica Extract, Melaleuca Altemifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract, 1,2-Hexanediol, Sodium Dehydrocetate, Water.
Each pimple patch is infused with acne-fighting and decongesting salicylic acid, soothing and antibacterial tea-tree oil, and willow bark extract, which is an ingredient that has been used for centuries to soothe and calm irritated and reactive skin as well as inflammation from bug bites, burns, and skin diseases.
Additionally, each pimple patch also contains soothing cica, as well as brightening and skin-repairing niacinamide to ensure not only complete removal of the inflammatory lesion but also discolored or darkened scarring that usually steps on the scene after a pimple has healed. If you are looking for a pure Niacinamide serum The Ordinary has a great Niacinamide product that is easily absorbed by the skin without clogging the pores.
Lastly, the star of the show for this product and the detail that’s responsible for infusing all the active ingredients in the skin are micro darts, which look like tiny spikes.
Micro darts work in a way where they would make minuscule punctures into the surface layer of the skin in order to help the active ingredients penetrate the layers and work on healing the lesion.
Despite looking like literal needles, the micro darts are soft, smooth, and gentle and are designed to not cause any discomfort or stinging while on your skin.
The Peach Slices Deep Blemish Microdarts come in a package of 9 pieces, and each one of these contains over 150 micro darts that gently release the active ingredients into the skin.
Best Pimple Patch for Hormonal Acne:
ZitSticka – KILLA Kit Deep Zit Micro Dart Patch
ZitSticka’s KILLA Kit Deep Zit Micro Dart Patch is one of the best pimple patches for hormonal acne because it contains a unique blend of ingredients that not only kill acne-causing bacteria but also help to regulate sebum production, which is often the root cause of hormonal acne.
GoodGlow Score
Deeper than standard patches
Microdarts deliver targeted ingredients to cancel a zit before it gets real.
How do the microdarts work?
Around 2 hours after you press a KILLA patch to your skin (and feel the satisfying prickles) the microdarts self-dissolve, and flood the heart of your zit.
Highly Effective
A synergistic potion of hyaluronic acid, salicylic acid, niacinamide and oligopeptide-76 flood the heart of an early-stage zit
Formulated Without
Animal Byproducts, Phtalates, Sulfates, Parabens, Gluten, and Fragrance
Key Ingredients
- Salicylic Acid: Helps to gently exfoliate the skin and unclog pores by ungluing dead skin cells.
- Niacinamide: reduces the appearance of redness.
- Oligopeptide-76: Potent but non-irritating antimicrobial peptide that disrupts progression of a zit.
- Sodium Hyaluronate (Hyaluronic acid): a moisture magnet that drenches skin to replenish hydration stores.
Patch: Sodium Hyaluronate, Oligopeptide-76, Niacinamide, Sodium Hydroxide, Salicylic Acid.
Swab: Alcohol, Water, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Tocopheryl Acetate, Salicylic Acid.
The main acne-fighting ingredient in this product is salicylic acid, which helps exfoliate dead skin cells, unclog pores, and reduce inflammation.
But what sets this product apart from other acne patches is the addition of Oligopeptide-76, a potent but non-irritating antimicrobial peptide that disrupts the progression of a zit and prevents it from becoming larger and more painful.
Furthermore, each patch also contains niacinamide, a brightening and skin-strengthening ingredient which helps regulate sebum production and prevent pores from becoming clogged in the first place.
Lastly, ZitSticka’s acne patch also contains green tea leaf extract, a powerful antioxidant that helps reduce redness in the area of inflammation.
All these active ingredients are gently deposited into the skin through micro darts, which are slightly larger than those found in Peach Slices’ acne patch, meaning they can penetrate more deeply into the dermis and provide an even higher level of acne-fighting power.
Overall, if you are looking for a pimple patch that not only treats acne but also helps to prevent it from happening in the first place, ZitSticka’s KILLA Kit Deep Zit Micro Dart Patch is the one for you.
Best Pimple Patch for Oily Skin:
Nexcare – Acne Absorbing Cover
If you have oily skin, you know the struggle of finding a pimple patch that will not only stick to your face but also won’t make your acne worse by adding more oil to the already existing sebum.
GoodGlow Score
Absorption
Works like a sponge to remove pus and oil
Acts as a protective cover
Helps reduce the urge to touch and pick at the blemishes
Non-drying
Helps maintain skin moisture and integrity
Drug-free and non-drying
No active ingredients
No active ingredients or medicines. This is just a patch that draws out moisture.
Nexcare’s Acne Absorbing Cover is one of the best acne patches for oily skin because it contains hydrocolloid technology, which helps absorb excess oil and moisture from acne-prone areas of the face.
While hydrocolloid acne patches are typically used to draw out impurities in cystic acne or other deep blemishes, Nexcare’s acne patch also contains tea tree oil and salicylic acid, two powerful ingredients that help fight acne and prevent breakouts in the future.
Furthermore, each patch also contains grape seed extract, which is a rich source of polyphenols that provide anti-inflammatory, skin-soothing, brightening, and UV-protecting properties.
What’s more, Nexcare’s acne patches are designed to stay firmly in place throughout the day, even if you are sweating or exposed to wind or other harsh elements.
Each package comes with 36 patches in different sizes for full customization based on your individual needs.
Overall, if you have oily skin and are looking for a pimple patch that not only effectively removes existing acne but also prevents acne from forming in the first place, Nexcare’s Acne Absorbing Cover is the one for you.
Best Pimple Patch for Acne Scars:
Peace Out – Acne Healing Dots
The Peace Out Acne Healing Dots are some of the best pimple patches for acne scars because they contain a unique blend of ingredients that help to speed up the healing process and reduce the appearance of acne scars.
GoodGlow Score
Effective
Combines patent-pending hydrocolloid polymer technology with anti-acne ingredients to minimize breakouts overnight.
Salicylic acid and Vitamin A
Salicylic acid penetrates pores to clear up blemishes. Vitamin A helps promote clear-looking skin while aloe vera gently soothes and minimizes redness.
Vegan
Clean and effective ingredients
Skin Type
For normal, dry, combination, and oily
Highlighted Ingredients:
- Salicylic Acid: Penetrates pores to target acne blemishes and blackheads.
- Aloe Vera Leaf Extract: Gently soothes while minimizing the appearance of redness.
- Vitamin A: Helps promote clear-looking skin.
Ingredients: Salicylic Acid 0.5%, Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Extract, Retinyl Acetate (Vitamin A), Hydrocolloid Polymer Technology
The main active ingredient in these acne dots is hydrocolloid, which helps to absorb impurities and calm active inflammation.
But what sets this product apart from other acne patches is the addition of vitamin A, an antioxidant that helps brighten the skin and reduce the appearance of acne scars, including dark spots, red spots, and textured scarring.
Furthermore, each acne dot also contains aloe vera leaf extract, which is a soothing ingredient that helps calm inflammation and prevents acne scars from forming in the first place.
Overall, if you are looking for a pimple patch that not only helps to heal acne but also reduces the appearance of acne scars, Peace Out’s Acne Healing Dots is the one for you.
Best Pimple Patch for Dark Spots:
Mario Badescu – Drying Patch
Mario Badescu’s Drying Patch is one of the best acne patches for dark spots because it contains two powerful acne-fighting ingredients that help reduce acne and fade acne scars.
GoodGlow Score
Effective Ingredients
Formulated with a detoxifying blend of Salicylic Acid and soothing Niacinamide, Vitamin C and Hyaluronic Acid.
Quick and Simple Solution
Helps to flatten and dry up pesky problems effectively and quickly, while soothing skin.
Acrylates Copolymer, 1,2-Hexanediol, Sodium Polyacrylate, Butylene Glycol, PVP, C13-14 Isoparaffin, Niacinamide, Water/Aqua, Salicylic Acid, Centella Asiatica Extract, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside, Sodium Hyaluronate, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Laureth-7, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea tree) Extract, Phytosphingosine, Madecassoside.
First, this acne patch contains salicylic acid, a well-known acne-fighting ingredient that helps to unclog pores and prevent acne from forming in the first place.
Additionally, Mario Badescu’s acne patch also contains soothing Centella Asiatica extract, which helps soothe redness, and niacinamide, which is an effective antioxidant that helps fade acne scars and brighten the skin.
When used together, salicylic acid and niacinamide can be a powerful combination that effectively treats acne, prevents acne from forming in the future, and reduce the appearance of acne scars.
What’s more, Mario Badescu’s acne patch is also designed to stay firmly in place throughout the day, making it an excellent choice for acne-prone areas exposed to sweat and other elements.
Overall, if you are looking for an acne patch that not only helps treat acne but also fades acne scars and brightens the skin, Mario Badescu’s Drying Patch is the one for you.
Best Korean Pimple Patch:
Cosrx – Pimple Master Patch
Cosrx’s Pimple Master Patch is one of the best Korean acne patches because it contains a unique blend of ingredients that are designed to effectively treat acne while being extremely gentle on the skin.
GoodGlow Score
Effective
This A.D.F dressing hydrocolloid patch protects the concerned area effectively and creates a moist environment, which makes the healing process faster.
Formulated with skin-friendly ingredients
Hypoallergenic, Dermatologist tested, Animal Testing-FREE, Parabens-FREE, Sulfates-FREE, Phthalates-FREE.
Protective Shield
This patch creates an ideal level of moisture to accelerate recovery. It also prevents the acne area from scarring.
For All Skin Types
Suitable regardless of which skin type you are facing
A.D.F. Hydrocolloid
The main active ingredient in these acne patches is hydrocolloid, which helps to absorb impurities and calm active inflammation.
The patches come in three different sizes which are suitable for all skin types, and aim to get rid of all kinds of zits, from the smallest pustule to the biggest cyst, overnight.
Additionally, COSRX’s Pimple Master Patch is a product that’s easily available in all countries globally and a great option for those who are looking for an acne patch that’s gentle enough for sensitive skin but still effective at eradicating acne.
