Pimple patches are the unexpected spot solution I never knew I needed (2025)

I'm a huge believer that good skincare doesn't have to be expensive – and these hydrocolloid patches are living proof. With 24 in a pack for £4.99, or you can upgrade to 72 for £7.99, these patches will look after your bank balance just as much as that stubborn spot.

Each patch contains a blend of oils, including tea tree – a well-known antiseptic – and calendula to reduce redness, fight infection and speed up the healing process. And, for sensitive souls out there, there is no alcohol or harsh chemicals whatsoever.

With Millie Bobby Brown recently wearing her pimple patches with pride on The Drew Barrymore Show, people are realising that not only are pimple patches nothing to be embarrassed about, you can find ones in cute designs that can be worn with pride.

These pimple patches from Restored Skincare are made with hydrocolloid and 1% salicylic acid, helping to fight pimples while looking cute with the colourful smiley face design.

When it comes to targeting those pulsing, under-the-skin craters, Zitsticka is a firm favourite.

Each KILLA patch uses micro dart technology to inject active ingredients deep within the core of an early stage pimple.

Use the provided sanitary wipes to clean the skin first, and then gently apply the patch: once you feel a little tingling sensation, you’ll know the ‘darts’ are attacking the spot and restoring order back into your skin.

Whenever I see a spot arise, I want it gone – quickly. In my time of need, I've been running to The Inkey List's Hydrocolloid Invisible Pimple Patches; in just one night they swiftly soak up puss while also reducing the size and swelling of my pimple.

How does it work? The patches are made of 99% hydrocolloid – a protective material that absorbs fluid and helps heal the skin – while salicylic acid reduces redness and targets bacteria.

They're petite and discreet so, if you wish, you can wear them throughout the day without anyone noticing your spot situation.

Hero's Mighty Patches are designed for XL surface spots, like large bum breakouts or bacne, so you can think of them as a plaster for your pimples.

The hydrocolloid strip sits flush against the skin, working to draw out sebum and gunk, while also creating a healthy environment for the skin to heal. With serious stick power, you can even wear one to bed and it will stay put.

What I love so much about Purifide's pimple patches is that they contain a trio of ingredients – salicylic acid, cica and willowherb – which work together to not only shrink the appearance of your spot but to soothe and reduce inflammation too.

With two sizes to choose from and a super thin material, they’re also one of the most invisible stickers I’ve tested yet.

Not only do these stickers look adorable, but they’re a best-selling hydrocolloid patch for later-stage spots.

While acting as a protective plaster to block off outside bacteria, they also absorb built-up fluid and reduce inflammation from surface spots.

Come the morning and your zit has been zapped. Also – did I mention they’re vegan and cruelty-free.

These pimple patches are for those stubborn spots that won't vanish. The COSRX Master Patch Intensive stickers (the clue is in the name) are made from a hydrocolloid dressing which will protect the pimple if you're tempted to pick and squeeze it, while ingredients like salicylic acid and tea tree reduce inflammation.

The hydrocolloid will also suck up excess sebum, preventing pimples from forming in the first place. With 36 stickers in a pack, they'll last you through any blemish bout or hormonal flare-up.

Members price: £12

These clever patches are laced with teeny tiny spikes that inject acne-healing medicine (we’re talking salicylic acid and niacinamide) directly into the core of your pimple.

They’re designed to target the pimple from its source to soak up pus and excess dirt, leaving you with a much happier spot situation only a few hours later (or overnight if you really want to tackle it).

Small yet strong, these dainty patches fight acne (we spot you salicylic acid) and calm inflammation (thanks to green tea) so you're less likely to experience that nasty pulsing sensation.

Pop one on as an emergency blemish buster or use them overnight to suck up your spot whilst you sleep.

If you’re a spot picker, I’m sure you’ll be well acquainted with post-acne scarring. To help diffuse the appearance of stubborn dark patches, the Zitstika Hyperfade Microdart Blur Patches are the best for the job.

Each sticker is coated with 24 (yes 24!!) teeny-tiny micro darts that release skin-brightening ingredients – like vitamin C and niacinamide – to help fade any discolouration. Apply one twice a week and just watch the difference it makes.

How should you use a pimple patch in your skincare routine?

Pimple patches aren’t your classic serum or cream product, so how should you best slot them into your skincare routine? Daniel suggests cleansing first, applying the patch to the targeted area, and then going in with the rest of your products.

‘Microneedle patches can be used once or twice per day on the same zit, while hydrocolloid patches can be used as many times per day as needed’, he explains.

While some are effective in only a few hours, it’s wise to keep them on overnight to really get their full use. ‘You’ll know they’re working when there is a noticeable reduction in the size, colour and pain of the zit,’ says Daniel.