How To Use Anti-Spot Patches

If you’re dealing with imperfections, learning how to use acne patches can be a simple yet effective step in your skincare routine. These small, adhesive dots are designed to cover pimples to help reduce their appearance. Whether you’re new to hydrocolloid patches or already a fan, the key is knowing when and how to apply them for visible efficacy.

Overview

Understanding how to use anti-spot patches isn’t just about sticking one on and hoping for the best—it’s about timing, skin prep, and proper application. Most patches, including CeraVe’s Anti-Spot Barrier Patches, are made from hydrocolloid material, which helps absorb impurities and protect pimples. Hydrocolloid patches have garnered a loyal following among those with acne-prone skin due to their ability to quickly and discreetly protect and conceal active lesion, while absorbing gunk and excess oil from pimple, reducing their appearance. Still, a lot of people question these kind of patches work. While the answer isn’t one-size-fits-all, when used properly, pimple patches can make a real difference to how you approach these skin concerns. Below, we’re digging deeper into what pimple patches do and the right way to use them. Keep reading for a lesson in smart patch application.

Anti-Spot Patch 101

Anti-spot patches are a type of skincare sticker that covers blemish area and helps prevent picking. They’re ideal for overnight use (since they take at least a few hours to work), but clear or fun-shaped options make them easy to wear during the day, too.
Proper application is key. Always start with clean, dry skin, leave it on for the allotted amount of time, and remove carefully.

What Are Anti-Spot Patches?

These patches are small, adhesive stickers designed to cover individual pimple. Most commonly made from hydrocolloid—a moisture-absorbing material originally used for in wound care—these patches draw out oil and gunk from pimple while serving as a protective barrier against impurities and skin picking. They come in a range of styles to fit different preferences, from ultra-thin, clear patches that blend into the skin to brightly colored or shaped options (like stars and hearts) that stand out in a fun, playful manner.

Anti-spot patches can also be formulated with other ingredients, like ceramides and niacinamide.

Benefits of Anti-Spot Patches

Absorbing pus and oil. Acne patches help draw out the impurities in your pimple while covering them to reduce their appearance.
Protecting pimples from picking. Picking at your spots can be tempting, but it’s likely to make pimples worse—not better. A anti-spot patch acts as a barrier, keeping your hands (not to mention dirt and oil) off your pimples. This can help reduce the likelihood of developing post-acne marks.

When to Use Anti-Spot Patches

Timing matters when it comes to getting the most out of your anti-spot patches. Here’s what to consider before applying one:

The time of day: Applying patches at night is a popular option because you can wear them in private and take them off in the morning. But you can wear them during the day, too. CeraVe’s hydrocolloid patches apply invisibly on all skin tones, so they’re perfectly discreet. You can also opt to stand out with patches in fun colors and shapes—they can serve as an accessory for your skin.
How many spots you have: If you’re dealing with a large-scale breakout, patches may not be the most effective solution. You could easily have more pimples than you do patches.

Step-by-Step: How to Apply a Anti-Spot Patch

Follow these five simple steps to use a patch properly:

Cleanse and dry your skin. Slapping a patch onto unwashed skin won’t do you any favors. To prep your skin, wash your face, then use a towel to gently dry it off.
Choose the right size patch. Use a patch that completely covers your pimple but isn’t unnecessarily big. The CeraVe Anti-Spot Barrier Patches come in two sizes: 10mm for smaller spots and 12mm for larger ones.
Apply the blemish patch. Place it directly on top of the pimple.
Leave on for the recommended time. Patches take time to work, some longer than others. CeraVe’s patches should be left on for at least six hours for the best results. You can leave them on while you sleep or rock them during the day.
Gently remove and follow with skincare. Once you’ve waited the appropriate amount of time, carefully and slowly stretch the edges of the patch to remove it. From there, you can complete your normal skincare routine.