QWhat are hydrocolloid patches and how can they be used in clinical practice?

Medically reviewed on 12.15.24 by Neal Bhatia, MD

It is no surprise that hydrocolloid patches (HC) for the treatment of acne have garnered much attention over the last several years due to their efficacy and availability. How is it that these “tiny” stickers have made such a “big” impact, you ask?

It is important to first understand the evolution of hydrocolloid dressings and their uses in dermatology. Per Collins (2023), “the application of self-adhesive hydrocolloid dressings is most commonly associated with the treatment of chronic ulcerative conditions where an open wound develops on the skin from injury, poor circulation, or pressure sores.” Due to their utility in the above settings, they have been repurposed in the treatment of acne.¹

According to Whelan (2022), hydrocolloid dressings “maintain a humid environment conducive to wound healing.” Whelan also asserts that these dressings control wound exudate and “provide a barrier that seals wounds.” Patients and consumers alike may think it’s best to “dry out” a pimple, however these patches play a role in reducing transepidermal water loss thereby promoting healing. The protective barrier also deters patients from picking and can help to heal excoriated acne.^1,2

Inflammation, infection, increased pigmentation, and scarring are common sequelae of excoriated acne. However, despite our most earnest attempts at dissuading patients, many can’t fight the urge to pick, pop, and squeeze their pimples. This is where “pimple patches” are of great utility. Acne always seems to arise at the most inopportune times causing our patients to panic and subsequently pick. Now, with the advent of pimple patches, we can instruct our patients to apply these overnight to help expedite the clearance of the pimple(s). Instead of reaching for their magnifying mirrors and comedone extractor, or worse, picking with their fingernails, they can apply a patch.

While most patients may opt to use these overnight, it is important to note that they may be used during the daytime as well. Some studies have shown that HC patches protect lesions from UV radiation (Lim, 2024). This can reduce post-inflammatory pigmentation, that annoying reminder that acne has left its mark yet again. Another study, although small, conducted by Chao et al⁴ in  2006 showed that the use of HC dressings on acne lesions resulted in improvements in erythema, sebum and post inflammatory pigmentation. The results of this study further support that these patches help to shield lesions against UVB.⁴

Used day or night, Dr. Davin Lim states that pimple patches are “simply one of the most effective ways to prevent scarring, especially if you are a habitual picker.” Beyond pigmentation and scarring, these patches could be a promising alternative to intralesional kenalog injections with less potential for adverse effects. With increasingly long wait times for new patients and schedules booked to full capacity, this can help patients feel a bit more in control.

In conclusion, pimple patches are a valuable adjunct to our acne armamentarium. They are not meant to replace other therapeutics that will target the many pathogenic factors associated with acne and their sequelae. Hydrocolloid patches are not designated for the prevention of acne and should be positioned as spot treatments.

References:

1. Collins, B. (2023, October 1). Pimple patches and what they offer. American Chemical Society. https://www.acs.org/education/resources/highschool/chemmatters/articles/pimple-patches-and-what-they-offer.html
2. Whelan, C. (2022, November 1). What is in hydrocolloid bandages, and how are they used? Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/what-is-in-hydrocolloid-bandages
3. Lim, D. (2024, May 23). Pimple patches. Davin Lim. https://drdavinlim.com/pimple-patches/
4. Chao CM, Lai WY, Wu BY, Chang HC, Huang WS, Chen YF. A pilot study on efficacy treatment of acne vulgaris using a new method: results of a randomized double-blind trial with Acne Dressing. J Cosmet Sci. 2006;57(2):95-105.