Gone are the days when teenagers would hide their pimples behind locks of hair. Just like revolutionising several trends, Gen Z and Gen Alpha have cracked the code to acne, too. Adorning their face with star-shaped hydrocolloid patches, they not only made pimple having a fashion statement, but also fueled several marketing campaigns. Recently, during the India vs West Indies Test Series 2025, Mohammed Siraj was part of a momentous win. But, he also stood out in the field – not just for his balling skills.
Gen-Z couldn’t help but notice a small patch on his cheek. A cause of concern? Probably not, as speculations rose if he really was sporting a pimple patch on the field. Be that as it may, is this not-so-new skincare obsession really effective? Let’s find out.
What’s a pimple patch?
A pimple patch is a small, adhesive sticker applied directly to a pimple to help reduce inflammation, absorb impurities, and speed up healing. Most are made of hydrocolloid, a gel-forming material originally used in medical wound dressings.
They play a huge role in creating a protective barrier over an already sensitive region on your skin. Shielding it from dirt, bacteria, and germs, pimple patches can reduce the risk of infection over open wounds. Highly effective in avoiding scars, the major ingredients include: salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, tea tree oil, or niacinamide.
Do pimple patches really work?
A study reviewed by Stephanie Gardner, MD (April 2025) revealed that researchers tested hydrocolloid pimple patches against regular surgical tape on people with mild to moderate acne. Participants replaced their patch or tape every two days for a week. By the end of the study, both groups showed improvement, but the pimple patches delivered stronger results.
They were more effective at reducing acne severity, filtering UV rays (which lowers the risk of skin cancer and melanoma), and controlling redness, oiliness, dark spots, and sebum production, especially noticeable on days 3, 5, and 7.
The study also highlighted that hydrocolloid patches infused with gelatin and cortex extracts sped up skin healing thanks to their antibacterial properties. Overall, these patches outperformed both surgical tape and other non-hydrocolloid acne patches on the market.
Disclaimer: Always consult a doctor before starting any diet or fitness routine. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
