Having originally started as a Korean beauty trend, the best pimple patches not only prevent us from picking and squeezing our spots, but they reduce the appearance of blemishes, too. And, given their huge resurgence on TikTok, it was high time we tested and reviewed the best for every skin type.
Sure, zits, pimples, blackheads and the sort are all perfectly normal – and we encourage you to embrace them if you so wish. Equally, you won’t find us blaming you if you did want to deal with them quickly and effectively, especially if you have a big event coming up on your social calendar.
Enter: our favourite K-beauty skincare product to date. Acne patches – or spot stickers, as they’re sometimes otherwise referred to – are an easy and fuss-free way to treat the spots, acne and blemishes that arise at the absolute worst time. Y’know, the night before you’re about to give a big presentation at work or if you’re set to slip on your wedding guest dress for your bestie’s vows. Here’s everything you need to know.
Best pimple patches at a glance:
- Best Pimple Patches Overall: Spot Patches by Glacia
- Best For Acne-Prone Skin: Emergency Pimple Patches
- Best Vegan Pimple Patches: The Pimple Patches
- Best For Blemish-Prone Skin: Pathology Breakout Box 3-in-1 Acne Treatment Kit
- Best For Early Stage Pimples: Hero Cosmetics Mighty Patch Original 24
Meet the expert:
Do pimple patches really work?
The short answer is yes, And they work quickly. Rather than dry spots out like many other fast-acting acne treatments, pimple patches are usually hydrocolloid bandages, which means they absorb fluid from the affected area and help reduce inflammation.
Pimple patches are usually see-through, which means you can see the drama unfold in the mirror (they turn white as they work to absorb the pus and flatten out your spot). And the best part is that the thinnest and most discrete of hydrocolloid patches could actually be worn during the day. No wonder they’ve become a dermatologist-approved bathroom cabinet staple.
And there’s another major bonus: acne stickers do a great job at stopping you from picking or squeezing your blemish, preventing the transfer of bacteria and acting as an extra layer of protection for your skin.
Facialist Sarah Chapman says, “Hydrocolloid pimple patches are hygienic – they stick to your skin and create a shield from other irritants like daily dirt and pollution. Used on spots, they also calm redness and irritation, encouraging the skin to heal.”
