
Do You Put Pimple Patches On Before Or After Moisturizer?
Do you put pimple patches on before or after moisturizer? This is a common question of those who are unfamiliar with these spot treatment patches. Check out this post if you want to add these patches to your skincare routine. It will cover everything you need to know about this product.
Table of Contents
What Is Pimple Patch, And How Does It Work?

Pimple Patch
Pimple patches are stickers that can be put on breakouts to aid in absorbing the pimple’s fluid and promoting healing. These products typically consist of an impermeable silicone exterior layer that is flexible yet impermeable, with a layer of hydrocolloid gel inside.
The acne patch progressively turns white as it absorbs wound fluids and transforms into a jelly-like mass when it is applied to the skin. Once the patch turns white, it’s time to remove it and; if required, replace it.
Pimple patches are available in a wide range of sizes, from tiny patches aimed to address specific imperfections to larger sheets intended to address more widespread issues.
It primarily aids in protecting the area by creating a clean, moist environment. The patch’s outer layer aids in keeping the region clean by preventing germs, such as bacteria that can cause an infection, from entering the pimple wound.
Additionally, you can use your hydrocolloid spot treatments on the whiteheads. It will aid in absorbing extra sebum that has become trapped beneath a buildup of dead skin cells. Still, it is ineffective at removing the whiteheads themselves because they typically occur in groups in bigger areas that pimple patches cannot cover.
Do You Put Pimple Patches On Before Or After Moisturizer?
Do You Put Pimple Patches On Before Or After Moisturizer? – Image Source: Screenshot
Putting the patches on before moisturizing is a smart move.
It’s recommended to use acne patches on dry skin because they need to adhere to your skin in order to work. Once you have your patch on, carry on with your normal skincare routine, including moisturizer, sunscreen, etc.
Keep in mind to always put on your pimple patches before moisturizer and other skincare products. This will ensure the patch sticks securely to your skin surface as well as prevent slipping or rubbing off the patch during your skin treatment applications.
I used to put on moisturizer and other products first, and I noticed the patches didn’t work as effectively, especially the sticking ability. They kept sliding back and forth. So to avoid this from happening to you, just put them on before any other treatment steps of your skincare routine.
Why Should You Use Pimple Patches?
Remove Excess Fluid
These pimple patches work because they soak up extra fluid and provide a vacuum-like effect to remove oil and dirt that might be creating a breakout.
The pollutants are then changed into a gel-like matter that adheres to the patch and is sealed off. Additionally, they might stop microorganisms from penetrating the pimple and escalating inflammation and redness.
Prevent Picking And Touching
What the patches can do best is cover your pimple, preventing you from picking or touching it. Picking a pimple will aggravate it because it raises inflammation, which lengthens the healing process and increases the likelihood that it may leave a mark, discoloration, or scar.
Treat Blemish
Salicylic acid and other acne-treating chemicals in pimple patches may provide additional assistance in removing dirt and germs from pores and accelerating healing. Some products may even contain anti-inflammatory components that soothe the skin, like vitamin A and aloe vera.
How To Use Pimple Patches Correctly
How to get rid of an infected pimple fast? I suggest you put on your pimple patches before going to bed since they require hours to work. This can also prevent you from checking and poking them multiple times during the day. Other than that, below are our detailed steps for using these acne stickers correctly.
Cleanse Your Hands And Face
Clean Hands And Face Before Applying Acne Patch – Image Source: Screenshot
This is a crucial step before applying the pimple patch. As the anced face is a breeding ground for bacteria, washing your hands before washing the face can stop the bacteria transfer that leads to skin infections and further acne.
Ensure to thoroughly moisten your face with lukewarm water. Avoid using too cold or too hot water during washing since it can damage the skin.
Gently apply a cleanser that is suitable for your skin type. Sponges and washcloths with mesh are also a big no since they can harbor bacteria and be too rough to use without damaging your skin.
Choose The Right Size
As mentioned before, pimple patches come in various sizes, and so do your zits. Some brands bundle several sizes in a single pack to make it more convenient for their customers to use. It is advisable to choose the patch size that can fully cover your current zit.
If the patch is too small for the pimple, it won’t be able to absorb all the pus and fluid, which is not only unpleasant to look at but can also worsen your skin condition.
As the pimple is exposed, you may start picking or popping it. This will spread bacteria into the surrounding pores and hair follicles, creating larger clusters of pimples or even causing pimple infections.
Apply The Patch
Apply The Patch – Image Source: Screenshot
Remember to let the skin dry and ensure that the pimple is in the center of the acne patch. This will enable the patch to perform as intended and provide the optimum outcomes.
Once you apply it, you can continue with your skincare routine. Don’t apply the acne patches after using skin care because it can cause slide, which will make the patch less likely to stick.
In case you accidentally forgot, just grab a Q-tip, gently wipe and dry the pimple spot where you want to put on the patch. Since the stickers require time to remove the pimple’s fluids and debris, it would be best to leave them on for at least 6 hours.
I usually leave them overnight and take them off the next morning. I find this way can prevent me from picking the patches the entire time that they are on.
The Bottom Line
Do you put pimple patches on before or after moisturizer? Now you have the answer for yourself. The patches always come first, before any other skincare treatment products, such as moisturizers, serums, sunscreen, etc. Once you are done using these spot treatment stickers, check out this guide to know what to do after removing the patches.