The Best Pimple Patches for Every Type of Breakout from COSRX, Zitsticka, & More

I have the kind of acne that drives you to buy anything that could help it. So when I discovered pimple patches, which promised to reduce my pimples overnight, of course I had to have them. Pimple patches, another K-Beauty godsend, are hydrocolloid bandages that absorb the fluid from the pimple and help reduce inflammation and redness. They also have the added benefit of preventing you from picking or popping your zit, which can lead to infection, discoloration, and scarring. Between maskne and adult acne, there’s not a day that goes by that there’s not a pimple patch on my face, so I’d say I’m pretty well versed on the topic of pimple patches. Here are six of my favorite patches to try depending on your skin’s needs. 

THE CULT-FAVE: COSRX ACNE pimple MASTER PATCH ($6)

This couldn’t be a blog about pimple patches without mentioning COSRX. These patches deserve all the internet fame. These no-fuss acne patches help to speed up the healing process by extracting impurities without drying or irritating the skin. Trust me, it’s so satisfying when you take one of these bad boys off a ripe pimple and see all the gunk it can pull out.

The best for cystic acne: Zitsticka killa kit ($29)

If you struggle with cystic acne these patches are a game changer. They have microdarts — treated with hyaluronic acid, salicylic acid, and niacinamide — that penetrate the epidermis and reach deep into those painful, under-the-skin pimples. Leave them on for a couple of hours (or overnight) to flatten out the zit and reduce redness.

The most invisible: RAEL INVISIBLE DOT SPOT ($12)

Picture this: A big, juicy pimple pops up smack dab in the middle of your forehead right before a first date. I have lived through this scenario many times and that’s when these patches come in handy. They have a slightly thinner outer edge and a matte finish which helps them to blend seamlessly into your skin. They’re great for protecting and camouflaging your zits when you’re out and about.

The best for big breakouts: HERO COSMETICS MIGHTY PATCH SURFACE ($18)

These jumbo patches are perfect for when you have a cluster of pimples you want to target (think: chest, cheek, or back). I love using these under my mask as a barrier between my acne and the fabric.

The best for treating dark spots: peace out dark spots ($28)

These patches are for after the damage has been done from a pimple and you’re left with discoloration. These brightening dots contain niacinamide, licorice root extract, and tranexamic acid, which lighten and brighten the appearance of dark spots without causing irritation. They also have microneedles which help to deliver these all-star ingredients deep into the skin.

THE CUTEst: SQUISH FLOWER POWER ACNE PATCHES ($14)

Who says acne can’t be cute? I’m kind of obsessed with the entire Squish brand, founded by body-positive activist Charli Howard, but these patches are my favorite product. Not only are they super cute, they’re also super effective. They have healing, protecting ingredients that help bring whiteheads to the surface within a few hours. Breakouts are never fun but these adorable patches make them a bit more bearable.

Have you tried pimple patches? Tell me your favorite brand in the comments!

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