These $8 Pimple Patches Are Effective Yet Affordable

Whether you deal with the occasional zit or have acne-prone skin, having a stash of pimple patches is never a bad idea. In fact, acne patches are pretty much an essential part of my skin-care routine. Primarily made of medical-grade hydrocolloid dressing, these little stickers help heal a breakout by absorbing excess fluid and oil and reducing inflammation. Acne patches also help prevent further scarring or damage to the skin, especially for those prone to picking and popping their pimples ("It's me, hi, I'm the problem, it's me"). As someone who has done their fair share of pimple popping and has dealt with the consequences of it, I rely on these hydrocolloid patches to curb my bad habit and help heal my skin.

I stock up on pimple patches often and have noticed how expensive they can get in the long run, especially if you use them regularly. When I noticed Good Molecules came out with a set of pimple patches, I was instantly drawn to how affordable they were. Ahead, you can check out my full review of the Good Molecules Pimple Patches ($8) and learn why it's worth making the switch.

Good Molecules is known for its effective yet affordable formulations, and these pimple patches give you the best bang for your buck on the market. Although it is a simple acne patch, these are cost-effective at 60 medium-sized patches for around $8, which comes to around 13 cents per patch. Popular competitors average around $12-$15 for 32-36 patches, or 30 to 50 cents per patch. As someone who deals with breakouts and zits often and goes through pimple patches like a bag of chips, this can add up quickly.

Despite saving you money, these patches do not compromise on quality. Because of the patch's ultra-thin perimeter, you can wear this during the daytime or overnight. Although they aren't completely transparent, I can get away with wearing these without them looking too obvious, as they seamlessly blend into my skin. Also, I appreciate the larger size. I can target clusters of breakouts or whiteheads without using too many patches. These pimple patches are also pretty sticky and will stay put all day long. I'm able to put other serums, moisturizers, and even makeup on top without losing its staying power.

After cleansing and drying your skin, apply the patch over your blemish and align the thicker, center part of the patch to the whitehead. Make sure you wash your hands or use a clean set of tweezers to peel the stick off of the plastic film. You can split the sheet to get a better grip on the patch, as well.

According to the brand, you can use a toner before placing this patch onto your skin but I suggest applying the patch after it has fully absorbed — just to ensure it properly sticks to your skin. Follow it up with the rest of your skin-care routine, including serums or moisturizers.

You can leave this patch on for about six to eight hours and let it work its gunk-absorbing magic. I like to remove the patch with a set of clean tweezers, but you can also use your fingers. Depending on the stage or size of your zit, you might need to use another sticker to help the blemish fully heal.

The Good Molecules Pimple Patches are a no-frills hydrocolloid patch, unlike others on the market that are infused with acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid or niacinamide. Therefore, it's best to use these patches on pimples that have already come to a head with visible pus — the ones that essentially look ready to be popped. You should use the patches that contain the other ingredients on larger zits or for early-stage pimples to stop them in their tracks.

The Good Molecules Pimple Patches are available at Ulta.

Rating:
★★★★★

Anvita Reddy is an assistant editor for POPSUGAR Shopping. She has a passion for products and is an avid reviewer of everything including furniture, mattresses, home gadgets, cookware, tech, and more. Having dealt with acne as a teenager and into adulthood, her expertise lies in beauty. She has tried and tested plenty of skin care, makeup, hair care, and countless other beauty products.