Pimple patches are a widely adopted skincare solution for managing blemishes. These small, adhesive dressings target breakouts while protecting the area from external irritants. They are popular because they provide visible evidence that they are working, often turning opaque or white after use. The appearance of this white substance leads many users to wonder what the patch has pulled from their skin.
The Makeup of the Absorbed Material
The white substance that collects on a used patch is often referred to as “gunk” or exudate, which is a mixture of materials absorbed from the pimple. This absorbed material primarily consists of pus, oil, and various cellular debris trapped inside the inflamed pore. Pus is a combination of dead white blood cells, dead skin cells, and bacteria, which the body sends to fight the acne-causing bacteria.
The patch also draws out sebum, the oily substance produced by the sebaceous glands that contributes to clogged pores. As the patch absorbs these components, the hydrocolloid material within the patch reacts with the moisture and swells. This reaction changes the patch from translucent to a noticeable white or opaque color, visually confirming the extraction of impurities.
The white color is not solely the color of the pus and oil itself. Instead, the color change results from the hydrocolloid material absorbing the fluid and forming a hydrated, gel-like matrix. This swollen substance traps the extracted contents, making the white spot a clear indication of the patch’s successful absorption.
The Science Behind Hydrocolloid Patches
The effectiveness of these patches is rooted in the unique properties of their main component, the hydrocolloid material. Hydrocolloids are traditionally used in medical settings as wound dressings, composed of gel-forming agents like carboxymethylcellulose, pectin, or gelatin. When these materials come into contact with moisture, they absorb the water content and swell.
This absorption process creates a moist environment over the blemish, which promotes faster healing compared to keeping a wound dry. The patch acts like a physical sponge, drawing out the fluid and pus while simultaneously protecting the blemish from outside contaminants like dirt and bacteria.
By forming this protective, semi-occlusive seal, the patch reduces inflammation and prevents the user from picking at the spot, which is a major cause of scarring. The hydrocolloid’s ability to maintain an optimal level of hydration aids the skin’s natural repair mechanisms. The patch creates a contained environment that facilitates the body’s own healing process.
Practical Guide to Using Patches
Pimple patches are most effective on blemishes that have come to a head, such as whiteheads, as they contain fluid ready for absorption. They are less effective on deep, underground blemishes like cystic acne or non-fluid-filled spots like blackheads. For successful application, the skin must be clean and completely dry before the patch is applied.
Any residual oil, moisturizer, or serum will prevent the patch’s adhesive from sticking properly and creating the necessary seal. Gently press the patch onto the blemish, ensuring the edges are firmly secured to the skin. This creates the barrier needed to effectively draw out the impurities.
Leave the patch on for the recommended time, typically six to eight hours or overnight, until the central area turns opaque white. Once the patch is fully saturated, it should be gently peeled off and replaced with a fresh one if the pimple has not fully flattened. This targeted application aids healing and provides a hands-off approach that reduces the risk of infection and scarring.