Here’s Why Hydrocolloid Patches are Your New Best Friend

All about the new acne patch that produces serious results

You’ve got a promising Zoom date tomorrow night, and you just woke up with what seems like the biggest zit in the universe. Great timing, right?!? So, what do you do? If you’re totally stumped, that’s where hydrocolloid patches can help.

What are hydrocolloid patches?

Used in the medical field for decades to help with wound healing, hydrocolloid patches are made of gel-forming agents, like pectin, that draw out fluids, oils, and pus deep within the skin, forming a soft gel. They help skin heal from the inside out in a moist environment while protecting your wound from bacteria. Since your zit can heal in optimal conditions, you’re left with a flatter, less inflamed pimple. Pretty amazing, huh?

Are acne and hydrocolloid patches the same thing?

Essentially, yes. Acne patches are simply hydrocolloid patches that are infused with acne-treating ingredients, such as salicylic acid and niacinamide, to help calm down blemishes. You just press them on before bed and allow all the active ingredients combined with the hydrocolloid properties to spot-treat your zit.

Are they effective on cystic acne?

Sadly, no. Because cystic acne is located deep within the skin, the only fast treatment is getting a cortisone injection from your dermatologist. But, you can use hydrocolloid patches to help keep your hands off your face so that your cystic pimples can heal.

Hydrocolloid patches really work

While hydrocolloid patches won’t get completely rid of your un-popped zit overnight, they can calm inflammation, speed up healing, and help treat blemishes. Plus, they’re incredibly low risk in terms of side effects. What more could you ask for?

References

“Do Hydrocolloid Patches Work, and Which Acne Patches are Best?,” Cosmopolitan, September 11, 2019.
“Hydrocolloid Patches, aka Acne Stickers, are My Secret to Zapping Zits Overnight,” Allure, June 6, 2017.