From pimples to dark spots and under-eye revivers, it seems there is a beauty patch for every skin issue. Editor Trudi Brewer shares whether our routines are better off with or without them.
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The beauty world is obsessed with adhesive multitasking patches, which look like they are about to revolutionise our routines. Whether you're looking to zap zits, erase dark spots or smooth under-eye wrinkles, there seems to be a patch for everything. With so much innovation in the space, we can't help but wonder: Do these groundbreaking innovations signal that patches are edging out our trusty serums? Read on to learn more.
The rise of patch popularity
Today's patch technology offers an expert delivery system, with a precise amount of active ingredients that target penetration and efficacy. Plus, who doesn't love instant gratification? The question isn't whether there's anything the beauty industry can't (or won't) patch, but rather, do we believe they're worth the hype? While this technology is targeted at Gen Z, self-care is ageless. Sure, it’s an extra step in your daily beauty routine, but beyond making you feel pampered, patches offer targeted, immediate results. The basic intention behind beauty patches is prolonged exposure to ingredients in a protective layer, allowing for increased absorption and effectiveness. While patches initially hit the market to treat acne, the category has expanded to include dark spots and wrinkles.
What sets patches apart from traditional skincare?
Patches deliver active ingredients to the skin with a delivery system a serum can not match.
For a quick science lesson: Our skin is designed to keep things out, but because patches are structurally similar to the epidermis, they trick the skin into accepting active ingredients more effectively. Also, some patches are made with hydrocolloid gelatine, creating a moist environment to promote healing. That same fabric has been used in blister bandages, which help draw excess dirt and fluid out of the skin. The hydrocolloid patch, ideal for spot-treating pimples, creates a healing environment, with active ingredients, while the patch covers the pimple, it prevents people from picking and scarring the skin. Then, some micro-dart patches penetrate deep into the skin to heal or brighten the spot. Most beauty patches are infused with active ingredients, like salicylic acid for acne and vitamin C and niacinamide for dark spots. Moreover, because patches act as occlusive (aka seal ingredients into the skin), their ingredients are in close contact with the treatment area for longer, with no risk of UV exposure degrading the ingredients.
The future of patches
It’s worth noting that studies on beauty patches have primarily been conducted on small sample sizes. However, the future of transdermal patch technology in medicine is very advanced. Nanotechnology has enabled targeted drug delivery, which offers advantages in precision medicine, oncology, dermatology, and chronic disease management. From a scientific standpoint, wearable patches may be comparable to or better than topical counterparts in the next decade.
Here are the latest affordable patches to hit our desks
Essano Vitamin C Brightening Micro Dart Patches 9 Pack, $10
Geared toward fading dark spots, this patch contains over 140 dissolving micro-darts of vitamin C and niacinamide (both brighten the skin). At the same time, salicylic acid gently exfoliates the dark spot. Finally, adding hydrating, antibacterial allantoin means the patch nourishes as it corrects. They are brilliant.
To use: Stick one patch on dark spots each night until the dark spot has visibly faded.
Boost Lab Fine Line Rewind Neck + Déc Silicone Patches, $45.
The skin on the neck and decolletage is the first to show signs of ageing, and it’s often overlooked in skincare routines. So if you have skin creasing or deep-seating lines on your chest in the morning, these 100 per cent silicone patches act like a brace. They help to limit muscle movement and trap moisture in the skin to prevent lines from forming overnight.
To use: Wait until your skincare has soaked in, then apply patches to dry skin for overnight skin support.
Talika Reusable Eye Therapy Patches, $18.
These patches have a cult following as the ultimate under-eye treatment before a big event. They instantly hydrate and brighten the under-eye area with soothing rose extract, wheat germ, avocado oil, ceramides, and shea butter.
To use: Apply to freshly cleansed, dry skin, and leave on for 15 minutes. They can be reused five times.
Mario Badescu Drying Patch, $17
These patches have won dozens of beauty awards for being transparent and healing blemishes fast. While they were made to dry out pimples before they become blemishes, they do not leave skin looking parched or flaky. Each patch is infused with salicylic acid, niacinamide, vitamin C, tea tree extract, and hyaluronic acid—everything you need to sort a zit crisis is in this little patch.
To use: Press on the spot. Do not apply makeup or any other skincare product over the patch. Do not apply if the skin is bleeding or broken.
And how they work?