Adding acne patches to your skincare routine can be an effective way to target breakouts while keeping the rest of your skin cared for. Here’s a guide on how to incorporate them properly:
What Are Acne Patches?
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Acne patches, often made with hydrocolloid or ingredients like honey or centella are small, adhesive dots designed to help treat pimples and prevent scarring. They absorb fluid, reduce inflammation, and create a protective barrier. |
Steps to Add Acne Patches to Your Routine:
1. Cleanse Your Skin |
Start with a gentle cleanser to remove dirt, oil, and makeup from your skin. Pat dry. |
2. Apply Cover Dot
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Place it on clean, dry skin directly over the blemish. Avoid applying other products (serums, moisturizers) on the area before the patch to ensure it adheres properly. |
3. Let It Work
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Leave the patch on for 6-8 hours or overnight. Avoid touching or moving it. |
4. Continue with Your Routine
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If you’re applying a patch during the day, continue with your routine, avoiding the patch area. For nighttime use, finish your routine after the patch is applied. |
5. Remove Gently
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Peel off the patch carefully. If the blemish is still active, you can apply another patch. |
6. Follow Up with Spot Treatment
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If needed, follow up with a gentle spot treatment or serum to help heal and reduce post-acne marks. |
Complementary products to pair with acne patches to enhance their effectiveness and support your overall skincare routine:
Steps: ↓ |
Purpose:
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Look for:
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Suggestions:
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Gentle Cleanser |
Prepares the skin for patch application without stripping moisture.
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Sulfate-free, pH-balanced, non-comedogenic cleansers. |
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CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser
- La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser
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Toner
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Balances skin’s pH and reduces excess oil. |
Soothing and non-alcoholic toners with acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid. |
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Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
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Spot Treatments
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Speeds up healing and reduces inflammation around the blemish. |
Benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or sulfur-based products. |
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Mario Badescu Drying Lotion (great for pre-patch use)
- Neutrogena On-the-Spot Acne Treatment
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Lightweight Moisturizer
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Keeps skin hydrated without clogging pores. |
Oil-free, non-comedogenic, and soothing ingredients like ceramides or niacinamide. |
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CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion
- Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel
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Sunscreen
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Protects healing blemishes from UV damage, which can lead to dark spots. |
Mineral or gel-based sunscreens with non-comedogenic formulations. |
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EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46
- La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk Sunscreen
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