Acne patch

Plain hydrocolloid patches come from wound-care technology: the gel-forming layer draws up fluid and keeps the area covered and moist, which can flatten a surfaced, weeping spot overnight and reduce the chance of a scab or a picked mark. They work best on whiteheads that have already opened and do very little for deep, closed or cystic lesions.

Medicated versions add salicylic acid, tea tree oil or similar ingredients; microneedle patches use dissolving tips to carry ingredients slightly deeper. These can irritate more, and fragranced or essential-oil versions are a common cause of stinging on broken skin.

Apply to clean, dry skin with no other products underneath, leave for several hours, then remove gently. A patch is a spot measure, not a treatment for acne as a condition — persistent or widespread breakouts still need a full routine, and painful nodules should be assessed by a dermatologist rather than simply covered.