Acne is cruel and unusual punishment. This we know.
Most of the time when a blemish graces your face, it is accompanied by a multiple other pus-filled counterparts. Sometimes though, you get one lone pimple that sprouts up at the most inconvenient time (read: the holidays).
To address the situation of a singular pimple, we asked celeb dermatologist Dr. Harold Lancer if acne patches really work.
"Used when you start to feel the blemish and when it starts to be visible, an acne patch might hasten the rate of the pimple…sometimes it works, sometimes not," answered the dermatologist. If you're thinking about trying out acne patches, here's what you need to know about the latest skin-care fad.
How It Works: Think of an acne patch like a Band Aid for your pimple. "Patches work by covering an inflammatory blemish, heating it, trapping fluid and allowing it to come to the surface," explained Dr. Lancer.
Non-Medicated vs. Medicated: Although acne patches are relatively new to the U.S. market, Dr. Lancer assured us that the concept of patch therapy is not. Firstly, there two types of patches: medicated and non-medicated varieties. Both work similarly to trap pus, but medicated versions are dabbed with over-the-counter topical aids like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. The doused version "helps to medicate a blemish to self-destroy itself," he shared.
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Best Time to Wear Them: If you are going to spot treat with the patch, try it at your own risk, as results will vary. The best time to wear it is at night while you are sleeping. This way you don't have to cover it with makeup, and the entire area is left untouched for the longest period of time.
Remember That Most Acne Comes in Groups: "A patch may work for one single blemish, but in general, blemishes come in groups," said the doctor. Instead of patching the entirety of your face with individually medicated patches, Dr. Lancer suggested an equally as effective, less time -consuming method of applying a prescription-strength topical cream on the entire region in one swipe.
Be Careful Not to Cause New Issues: While Dr. Lancer confirmed that the patch method doesn't further hinder the zit (and might even help to heal the pimple faster), other unforeseen issues can arise. "It may help the blemish, but it may trigger blemishes in other areas," warned the expert. He elaborated that the adhesive area of the swatch can suffocate the pores of the surrounding skin, which may cause irritation or even new pimples to form.
Final Verdict: According to Dr. Lancer, acne patches aren't particularly helpful, but they aren't particularly harmful either. Yes, if you have one stand-alone pimple and are getting married tomorrow (Dr. Lancer's example), "Sure," he says, patch it. Overall though, according to the industry professional, acne patches aren't worth the hassle and are not here to stay in the long run. "It's just a fad," predicted Dr. Lancer.