Topics Discussed In Battle Of The Pimple Patches I Ep-07:
Why Pimple Patches
While pimple patches have been a beauty staple in Asia for years, they’ve only burst onto the scene in Australia and the US quite recently.
Thanks to their reputation for rapidly healing pimples, there has been an explosion of products on the market. From medicated to micro-needles, the options can be overwhelming. If you’re not sure where to start, the safest way to give pimple patches a go is stick to the options from countries that have perfected the art of pimple patching.
What Is Hydrocolloid?
A wound dressing.
It began in hospitals, but has been adapted for a skincare solution.
First used by the medical community in the 1970s, hydrocolloid combines gelling agents like gelatin and pectin with adhesives to form a dressing. This applied to open wounds to treat them by suspending liquid from the wound on the patch itself.
How Does Hydrocolloid Work?
Wounds heal best under wet conditions.
The main benefit of hydrocolloid is that it creates a moist environment to heal wounds.
The gelling agent used in hydrocolloid is water binding, meaning it draws fluids to it. Therefore, hydrocolloid draws fluid out of wounds (like, for example, the pus out of pimples).
The result is a white dot appears on your patch once you’ve left it on for long enough – this is actually the fluid, which has been drained from your pimple and suspended on the patch.
Typically, hydrocolloid is combined with a protective polyurethane barrier that protects wounds and prevents them from drying out.
When To Use Hydrocolloid Pimple Patches On Pimples
Hydrocolloid pimple patches work best on pimples with white heads (i.e. pimples with pus in them that are close to the surface of the skin).
Best All Rounder: Subi
Thinnest, stickiest and most invisible of the patches
Subi Perfect Pimple Patch is made from 10mm medical quality hydrocolloid and is 100% vegan, drug free and cruelty free.
The thinness makes Perfect Pimple Patch ideal for repairing pimples in hard-to-reach places (like the side of your nose or near your mouth).
Unlike regular patches, which often don’t stay on the skin long enough to be effective, Perfect Pimple Patches are ultra-sticky, meaning they stay in place no matter how much you toss and turn at night or sweat during the day.
Who Should Use Them: Everyone! If you’re looking to use the most high-end, up to date pimple patch technology available, then these are the patches for you. Even sensitive and dry skin types can safely and comfortably use them, and if you have a pimple emergency during the day you don’t have to interrupt your treatment – simply pop on one of these barely visible patches are you’re ready to go (with or without makeup!)
Most Budget-Friendly: COSRX
If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, COSRX Acne Pimple Master Patch has long been an affordable entry point for many into patching acne. These patches do a great job of sticking on and help to speed up the breaking healing process by reducing bacteria and absorbing debris from whiteheads.
The hydrocolloid in these patches mean that you won’t experience any dryness or flaking when using them. The only downside is the thickness and bulkiness of the patch, which stands out too much to be worn comfortably during the day.
Who Should Use Them: Anyone looking to save money who doesn’t mind using an older version of pimple patch technology, which is slightly bulkier.
Best Medicated Patch: Some By MI
If you’ve done your research and want to try a medicated patch solution, SOME BY MI Clear Spot Patch uses a unique blend of salicylic acid, tea tree and eucalyptus oil to control sebum, boost anti-inflammatory properties and further speed up the healing process.
As an added bonus, these patches come in two sizes, making them perfect for treating pimples both big and small.
Who Should Use Them: Anyone prone to infected, pustule acne that requires medication to dry out and disinfect spots.
Final Verdict
Which patch is better for you will depend on which type of acne you’re treating, as well as your skin’s sensitivity to any of the ingredients.
If you find salicylic acid, peppermint, lavender, eucalyptus oil or tea tree to be too drying and harsh on your skin (as many people with sensitive skin do), then skip SOME BY MI’s patches in favour of COSRX or Subi
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