So, How Do Hydrocolloid Patches Work Exactly?

Hydrocolloid patches, otherwise known as acne patches or zit stickers, have become a popular solution for those struggling with acne. These small, translucent patches can be applied directly onto pimples to help reduce inflammation, speed up healing, and prevent further breakouts.

In this article, we will discuss what hydrocolloid is, what hydrocolloid patches are, how they work for acne, and how to use them. Plus, we’ll share the best hydrocolloid patches you can shop now to finally see the end of pesky pimples.

What is Hydrocolloid?

Hydrocolloid is a substance that is commonly used in wound dressings to promote wound healing. It is made up of gel-forming agents such as pectin, gelatin, and sodium carboxymethylcellulose. When hydrocolloid comes into contact with moisture, it creates a gel-like barrier that helps to protect and heal the affected area, while speeding up the overall healing process.

Hydrocolloid is also effective at absorbing excess fluid, which makes it ideal for use on acne. Acne is often caused by an excess of oil and bacteria in the skin, which can lead to inflammation and the formation of pimples. Hydrocolloid helps to absorb this excess oil and bacteria, which can reduce inflammation and promote healing.

What are Hydrocolloid Patches?

Hydrocolloid patches for acne are small, circular stickers that are made with hydrocolloid material. They are designed to be applied directly onto pimples or blemishes, where they can work to reduce inflammation and speed up healing. These patches are often transparent, which makes them easy to wear during the day without being noticed.

Hydrocolloid patches come in different sizes to suit different types of pimples. Some patches are small and designed for individual pimples, while others are larger and can be used to cover multiple blemishes. They are also available in different shapes, such as round or oval, to fit different areas of the face.

These pimple patches may also contain other acne-fighting ingredients such as salicylic acid, tea tree oil, benzoyl peroxide, and AHAs.

How Do Hydrocolloid Patches For Acne Work?

Hydrocolloid patches work by creating a moist environment that promotes healing. When the patch is applied to a pimple, it creates a barrier that protects the affected area from external factors such as bacteria and dirt. The hydrocolloid material in the patch helps to absorb excess oil and fluids from the pimple, which can reduce inflammation and help the pimple to heal faster.

Hydrocolloid patches can also help to prevent further breakouts. When a pimple is covered with a patch, it prevents the person from touching or picking at the blemish, which can spread bacteria and cause further breakouts. The patch also keeps the pimple covered and protected from external factors, which can reduce the risk of infection and further inflammation.

While these acne patches work great on freshly popped pimples or oozing pustules, research shows that they’re generally less effective on blackheads and whiteheads. They also do not work on cystic acne or cysts.

How to Use Hydrocolloid Pimple Patches

Using hydrocolloid acne patches is easy and straightforward. First, clean the affected area with a gentle cleanser and pat it dry. Then, select a patch that is the appropriate size for the pimple or blemish.

Peel the patch off of its backing and apply it directly onto the pimple, making sure that it is centered over the affected area. Gently press down on the patch to ensure that it adheres to the skin properly.

Hydrocolloid patches can be worn during the day or overnight. They should be left on for at least six hours, but can be worn for longer periods if necessary. If the patch becomes dislodged or loses its adhesion, it can be replaced with a new patch.

When removing the patch, gently peel it off of the skin. The patch may have absorbed some of the excess oil and fluid from the pimple, which will be visible on the patch. Discard the used patch and dispose of it properly.

Do Pimple Patches Work?

In conclusion, hydrocolloid patches for acne are an effective and convenient solution for those struggling with pimples and blemishes. They’re an excellent spot treatment for freshly popped or oozy breakouts, are definitely worth including in your skincare routine.

One of the biggest benefits of hydrocolloid patches, other than their effectiveness on zits, is that they don’t get wiped off like regular spot treatments. They stay on and work their blemish-busting action!

Shop Hydrocolloid Patches

At Rainbow, we’ve got plenty of acne-fighting skincare products that’ll clear you up in no time! If you’re looking to shop acne patches, try this favorite of ours below.

CLEAR Blemish Face Patches

Zap away zits overnight with this pack of 36 cloud-shaped blemish patches. Formulated with grease-cutting salicylic acid and bacteria-killing benzoyl peroxide, these patches work to flatten, drain, and soothe active breakouts — and manifest a clearer complexion. They’re an easy, convenient, and mess-free topical treatment for last minute breakouts. Plus, you’ve gotta admit...they are pretty cute!

Why It’s Special:

• Sticker-to-skin enables active ingredients to deeply penetrate while keeping out unwanted dirt, irritants, and excess oil. (And your fingers!).

• No active breakouts, but a lot of acne aftermath? Pop a patch on an acne scar or dark patch to even hyperpigmentation.

• Vegan and cruelty-free (like all of the Rainbow formulas!)

• Salicylic acid + benzoyl peroxide are two of the best ingredients around for fighting acne. They penetrate deep into pores, removing gunk, excess oil, and dead skin while fighting acne-causing bacteria to prevent future blemishes.

SHOP CLEAR BLEMISH PATCHES

Speak to a dermatologist before using if you have severely sensitive skin or a skin condition. It is also not recommended to apply these patches on open wounds and blisters. In this case, it would be better to stick on a band-aid or hydrocolloid dressing.

Hydrocolloid patches won’t clear up severe cases of acne. And it’s still important to follow a strict skincare routine featuring an acne-fighting cleanser, serum, moisturizer, and SPF.

That said, the next time a stubborn pimple pops up, go ahead and patch it up!