We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Shopping Beauty Skincare The 9 Best Pimple Patches for a Calmer, Clearer Complexion Say goodbye to zits, pimples, and hyperpigmentation. By Grace Parsons Grace Parsons Grace Parsons is a contributing writer for Real Simple whose work has been published in The Spruce, The/Thirty, and The Quality Edit. Real Simple's Editorial Guidelines Published on June 12, 2024 In This Article View All In This Article Our Top Picks Reviews Final Verdict How to Shop FAQs Take Our Word for It Photo: Real Simple / Brian Kopinski Pimple patches are an effective targeted treatment for tackling pimples, zits, and other unwanted blemishes. When combined with a curated skincare routine, these small yet mighty patches can speed up the healing process, reducing inflammation and boosting confidence. Fortunately, patches vary in size, ingredients, and price, catering to every type of person and pimple. However, finding the right ones for your needs can be challenging. We researched several options on the market, considering key ingredients, the number of patches per package, and cruelty-free status. We also spoke with Dendy Engelman, MD, board-certified dermatologic surgeon at Shafer Clinic Fifth Avenue, Rachel Nazarian, MD, FAAD, board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group, and Claire Wolinsky, MD, board-certified dermatologist in Manhattan, for expert insight on which patches are most effective. Read on for our favorite options that will speed up blemish healing time, with some even tackling post-acne concerns in the process. Our Top Picks Best Overall: Hero Cosmetics Mighty Patch The Original at Amazon $12 Jump to Review Best Budget: Good Molecules Pimple Patches at Amazon $8 Jump to Review Best Micro Dart: Peace Out Early Stage Acne Dot at Amazon $19 Jump to Review Best for Dark Spots: ZitSticka Hyperfade Patches at Amazon $34 Jump to Review Best for Clusters: COSRX Master Patch Intensive X-Large at Amazon $14 Jump to Review Best Invisible: Grace & Stella Hydrocolloid Pimple Patches at Amazon $10 Jump to Review Best for Sensitive Skin: Soko Glam The Klog Soft Shield Pimple Patch at Amazon $20 Jump to Review Best for Under Makeup: SALE ZitSticka Acne Blemish Patches at Target $16 $13 Jump to Review Best Design: Starface Hydro-Stars at Amazon $15 Jump to Review Best Overall Hero Cosmetics Mighty Patch The Original PHOTO: Amazon $12 at Amazon Orig. $22 $8 at Target $11 at Walmart What Stands Out This patch sticks to the skin and doesn’t fall off. What Could Be Improved The original patch has no added skincare benefits. Hero Cosmetics' Mighty Patch is our top pick, given its straightforward design, range of pack sizes, and easy-to-peel packaging. Each box features medical-grade hydrocolloid patches that are vegan and cruelty free, though they do lack the topical benefits of additional skincare ingredients. While this might be a drawback for some, the original patches’ universality makes them equipped to tackle even the most stubborn blemishes on those with sensitive skin. Not to mention, Mighty Patch is easily accessible for in-store and online shopping, with even the highest package count—including 72 patches—being at an inexpensive price point. Another benefit of this pick is the ample surface area of each disk, which offers broader coverage than other patches. Plus, the plastic backing’s tear-away design ensures that the patch’s surface area isn't compromised when peeling it away for application. Key Ingredients: Hydrocolloid | Number of Patches: 24, 36, 72 | Cruelty Free: Yes Best Budget Good Molecules Pimple Patches PHOTO: Amazon $8 at Amazon $8 at Ulta View on Goodmolecules.com What Stands Out These patches won’t peel off when exposed to water. What Could Be Improved There are no additional skincare ingredients to help reduce pigmentation or inflammation. Pimple patches can get pricey, especially if you cycle through them frequently. That’s why we love the Good Molecules Pimple Patches, which offer a large quantity of patches at an inexpensive price, all without sacrificing quality or efficacy. Each 60-count box contains four sheets of 15 patches, all of which have hydrocolloid to clear up blemishes sans picking at the skin. And, just like the rest of the products in the lineup, Good Molecules is fully transparent on the patches’ ingredient makeup—down to the percentage—so you can know exactly what you're putting on your skin. The patches are 12 millimeters in size with a perimeter that sits flush on the skin. Due to their flat, unobtrusive appearance, these patches are virtually undetectable and especially ideal for those who wear foundation or other face makeup regularly. Key Ingredients: Hydrocolloid, pectin, cellulose | Number of Patches: 60 | Cruelty Free: Yes Best Micro Dart Peace Out Early Stage Acne Dot PHOTO: Sephora $19 at Amazon $19 at Sephora $19 at Ulta What Stands Out These patches include a greater amount of micro darts than other options on our list, more effectively targeting the root of the blemish. What Could Be Improved There are only eight patches per box, which is low considering the price point. Under-the-skin blemishes are more resistant to acne treatments than ready-to-pop whiteheads. That's where micro dart patches, like the Early Stage Acne Dot from Peace Out, come into play. Each of these pimple patches contains 430 self-dissolving microneedles that penetrate the skin, delivering ingredients like salicylic acid, niacinamide, and succinic acid right to the source of the blemish. These acne-fighting powerhouses help speed up the healing time of even the deepest zits, and as the bacteria, sebum, and dead skin trapped within the pore come to the surface, hydrocolloid is there to absorb the fluid. Every box includes eight patches, all of which have a clear, self-adhering lining to keep them firm on the skin. Thanks to this stickiness, you can rest assured that the patches will stay secure, even throughout six hours of wear. Key Ingredients: Salicylic acid, niacinamide, succinic acid | Number of Patches: 8 | Cruelty Free: Yes Best for Dark Spots ZitSticka Hyperfade Patches PHOTO: Amazon $34 at Amazon $35 at Revolve $17 at Ulta What Stands Out For results, you’ll only need to wear the patch for two hours. What Could Be Improved The three layers make it bulky and less suitable for daytime wear. Pimples aren't fun, but neither are the areas of hyperpigmentation that remain once a blemish has healed. The Zitsticka Hyperfade Micro Dart Patch prevents the increase in melanin by penetrating a proven blend of hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, vitamin C, arbutin, licorice root extract, tranexamic acid, and kojic acid into the skin through 24 micro darts. The results are a brightened, more even complexion with continued usage, though most users notice a change in the appearance of hyperpigmentation after the suggested two hours of wear. In addition to their ability to remove post-acne dark spots, the brand recommends using these patches to treat pesky sun spots, as well. Once applied to the skin, each patch has three layers of protection to ensure it doesn't budge. The hydrocolloid top layer and the ingredient-infused micro dart layer connect with a self-adhesive that won't irritate the skin. Despite the effective design, this bulkiness does make the patches a bit more visible and potentially less ideal for daytime wear. However, even if you solely opt to use them overnight, we think the impressive results make these patches worth the purchase. Key Ingredients: Vitamin C, licorice root extract, tranexamic acid, kojic acid | Number of Patches: 4, 12 | Cruelty Free: Yes Best for Clusters COSRX Master Patch Intensive X-Large PHOTO: Amazon $14 at Amazon View on Cosrx.com What Stands Out The ovular shape helps them stick to the skin. What Could Be Improved The bulky design is fairly noticeable. Unlike other patches that combat one-off blemishes, the COSRX Master Patch Intensive tackles cluster acne, making it a more budget-friendly option for high-stakes breakouts. Each 10-count package includes the brand's signature pimple patch makeup of hydrocolloid and niacinamide in a more robust size. Plus, this patch is free of parabens, phthalates, sulfates, and fragrances, so you won't have to worry about it irritating an already sensitive area. Each patch’s unique, ovular shape allows it to meld to the face’s natural curves, helping it stay securely on areas like the cheekbones, chin, and jawline. And if you’re not convinced it will stay put, the self-adhering strip around the perimeter of the hydrocolloid layer should provide some extra peace of mind. Key Ingredients: Hydrocolloid and niacinamide | Number of Patches: 10 | Cruelty Free: Yes Best Invisible Grace & Stella Hydrocolloid Pimple Patches PHOTO: Amazon $10 at Amazon View on Graceandstella.com What Stands Out The combination of ingredients reduces swelling and speeds healing. What Could Be Improved The tea tree oil might be too intense for sensitive skin. Grace & Stella offers a pack of 36 pimple patches designed to seamlessly blend into your skin, making them perfect for running errands during a breakout. Beauty director Heather Muir Maffei is a big fan of the brand, often popping a patch on before bed to wake up to a much flatter bump in the morning. "These patches pack everything you need to make your zits go away fast—hydrocolloid draws out the gunk to flatten the pimple, salicylic acid buffs away dead skin cells and chills out swelling, and tea tree helps to speed up healing," she says. While the invisible patches are virtually undetectable, the brand also offers several colorful, visually appealing options for a “selfie-ready” look that Muir Maffei says won't leave you "tempted to pick or prod." Whether you’re seeking a statement accessory or a more discreet look, these patches have got you covered. Key Ingredients: Hydrocolloid, tea tree oil, salicylic acid | Number of Patches: 36 | Cruelty-Free: Yes Best for Sensitive Skin Soko Glam The Klog Soft Shield Pimple Patch PHOTO: Amazon $20 at Amazon $5 at Sokoglam.com What Stands Out Each pack includes a variety of patch sizes. What Could Be Improved They don’t perform as well on deeper blemishes. The Klog Soft Shield Pimple patches are great for all skin types, especially sensitive skin, as they offer the benefits you’d expect from a pimple patch without damaging the skin barrier. You'll find a combination of 10 and 14 millimeter patches in every box, allowing you to cover both minor and unruly blemishes without worrying whether you’re treating the entire clogged pore. These patches are vegan and cruelty free, with no questionable ingredients like phthalates or fragrances to cause further skin irritation. In addition to their safe makeup, these patches stand out for their beveled edges. This style allows for an easy and painless removal process without fear of pulling or tugging on the skin. Key Ingredients: Hydrocolloid | Number of Patches: 42 | Cruelty Free: Yes Best for Under Makeup ZitSticka Acne Blemish Patches PHOTO: Ulta Orig. $16 $13 at Target $16 at Ulta What Stands Out The sheer design can accommodate various skin tones. What Could Be Improved They may lift with certain makeup formulas. Since the ZitSticka Undercover Ultra Sheer Acne Pimple Patches are paper thin, they are invisible on the skin, making them undetectable beneath a full face of makeup. In addition to their discreet design, their lightweight style also prevents your pores from clogging with SPF and cosmetics. Depending on the formula of your makeup, these patches may lift a bit during extended periods of wear. However, each pack includes 36 patches, so you’ll be able to replace them should they curl up. The patches are made with azelaic acid to subdue redness, tea tree oil to kill off acne-causing bacteria, and cica to soothe the irritation expected of cystic acne. No matter how bad your breakout is, this pick ensures a good makeup day. Key Ingredients: Hydrocolloid and azelaic acid | Number of Patches: 36 | Cruelty Free: Yes Best Design Starface Hydro-Stars PHOTO: Starface Orig. $15 $13 at Amazon $15 at Target $15 at Walmart What Stands Out The allergen-safe patches are easy to travel with and serve as an accessory, as well. What Could Be Improved The star shape might not fully cover larger pimples. Starface wants you to embrace your breakouts, not shy away from them. That's why the brand’s patches come in several vibrant colors, with the hallmark being the bright yellow star. The hydro-stars are vegan and cruelty free, using hydrocolloid to minimize the size of your spots after just six hours of wear. In addition to their undeniable aesthetic appeal, the star-shaped design serves a purpose far beyond added character and charm; while traditional circular patches often lift over time, the star shape actually allows these patches to mold onto practically any skin surface. Whether you place the star on a chin blemish or jawline zit, it will remain secure. Just keep in mind that, depending on the size of the pimple, the unique star shape may not offer as much coverage as more standard options. Your first purchase comes with a convenient refillable compact (with a handy mirror!) to protect the patches from bacteria exposure, ensuring worry-free travel and storage. Overall, these pimple patches serve as a functional and fashionable choice. Key Ingredients: Hydrocolloid | Number of Patches: 32 | Cruelty Free: Yes Final Verdict Our top pick is the Hero Cosmetics Mighty Patch Original, which is simple, effective, and easy to peel. Plus, the use of hydrocolloid as a standalone ingredient allows it to tackle most blemish types with virtually no damage to the skin. If you're seeking a less expensive option, we recommend the Good Molecules Pimple Patches. Each pack comes with 60 patches, all of which are flat and unobtrusive. How to Shop for Pimple Patches Like a Pro Ingredients Pimple patches are made with hydrocolloid, a gel-like material that absorbs liquids. Given hydrocolloid's track record for "quickly decreasing the redness and swelling associated with pimples," Dr. Nazarian says that most brands don’t add additional targeted ingredients. If a patch does contain another active ingredient, it’s usually salicylic acid, which Dr. Wolinsky says is a gentle exfoliant that helps to minimize a pimple’s appearance and flatten imperfections. According to Dr. Wolinsky, "These patches keep the salicylic acid in place for the duration of wear, and while they might not turn white in the center, they're working undercover to help stop a pimple in its tracks." Acne Type Not all forms of acne will inherently benefit from pimple patches. Dr. Nazarian says patches work best on inflamed pimples and pustules, as these blemishes hold excessive fluid, allowing the hydrocolloid to work its magic. She adds that patches can also be effective on deep, tender cysts, though she typically recommends that patients address these more serious blemishes with cortisone injections performed by their dermatologist. If your acne comes in the form of whiteheads or blackheads, pimple patches are not the most effective form of topical intervention. These blemishes will benefit from spot treatments containing ingredients like clay, sulfur, or zinc, which help to draw impurities out of the pore with minimal effort. Appearance Pimple patches aren’t one size fits all, and you’ll find a few different styles on the market. Brands like Starface opt for more intricate and unique designs, encouraging customers to embrace a sense of individuality and reclaim the narrative of societal beauty standards. More universally, however, companies create semi-transparent or virtually undetectable patches for those who prefer a more discreet appearance during the day. While most pimple patches tend to be small and round, you'll also find options that are larger in shape to cover more than just a single blemish, like the COSRX Master Patch Intensive. This style covers and treats a cluster of breakouts in a single pass. Questions You Might Ask Do pimple patches actually work? All three dermatologists agree that pimple patches aid in treating acne. "Pimple patches work to absorb the fluids that cause swelling, redness, and other visible signs of acne,” Dr. Engelman says. “They can also prevent picking scabs or popping pimples, which cause inflammation and damage the skin further.” In addition to deterring you from picking, she emphasizes that pimple patches also serve as a barrier between the blemish and your fingers, keeping you from manually extracting the spot and potentially damaging the skin. By preventing contamination, pimple patches quicken a blemish’s healing time, minimize the risk of infection, and decrease the chance of bacteria spreading (resulting in more breakouts). What do pimple patches pull out? While you may assume that pimple patches are extracting gunk from your blemish, Dr. Engelman explains that they aren’t actually pulling out anything: “What they are doing is absorbing the fluid that fills the pimple, whether that be pus or excess oil,” she says. “This reduces inflammation, thus minimizing the size of the pimple." That said, our experts emphasize that even after a patch removes the excess liquids that lead to redness and inflammation, the root cause of the acne trigger could still be present within the pore. Do dermatologists recommend pimple patches? Dermatologists highly recommend pimple patches, often suggesting them to patients and including them in their arsenal of skincare products. However, despite their convenience, our experts caution against using them as a long-term solution to potentially significant skincare concerns. While they can be an effective, quick solution for more minor circumstances, Dr. Engelman recommends seeing a dermatologist for a more powerful course of action in more severe cases. Depending on the severity, this could entail adjustments to your skincare routine or in-office treatments. Like Dr. Engelman, Dr. Nazarian appreciates a patch's ability to help patients with acne-focused skincare routines and interventions. "I'm a huge fan of patches in several different scenarios” she says. “When starting an acne regimen, there can be a lag before my patients notice a vast improvement in their skin, and there's typically a window where they continue to break out before the topical regimen is effective." After all, results with skincare products don’t typically happen overnight. Take Our Word for It This article was written by Grace Parsons, a beauty industry veteran and writer with experience across the cosmetics, skin, and wellness industries. She researched countless options to find the best pimple patches, considering ingredients, patches per box, and cruelty-free status. For expert insight, she consulted three dermatologists: Dendy Engelman, MD, board-certified dermatologic surgeon at Shafer Clinic Fifth Avenue, Rachel Nazarian, MD, FAAD, board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group, and Claire Wolinsky, MD, board-certified dermatologist in Manhattan.