The Best Pimple Patches for Every Kind of Breakout

There may be fewer things worse than whiteheads: Not only are they more tempting to pop, but they're hard to cover with concealer. In order to deal with these tricky pimples, Zeichner advocates for "patches with salicylic acid, which will help dry out the pimple itself." These Skyn Iceland acne patches contain a potent zit-zapping cocktail of salicylic acid (to fight bacteria), tea tree oil (to soothe irritation), and volcanic ash (to detoxify).

These pimple patches are a two-step process: First you use a wipe drenched in tea tree oil and salicylic acid to sanitize your zit, then you stick on the patch. What differentiates these patches from the rest is that they've got tiny micro-needles filled with hyaluronic acid (to help hydrate) and niacinamide (to brighten and soothe).

There always seems to be zits that just won't go away, and for those Zeichner recommends patches that contain vitamin A derivatives, since "they help reduce inflammation and prevent blockages within your pores to keep the pipes clean." Peace Out Acne Dots combine hydrocolloid technology with a slew of actives including bacteria-killing salicylic acid, soothing aloe vera, and vitamin A to increase cell turnover for faster healing.

While all acne patches purport to be clear—and there are even amazing YouTube video tutorials on how to effectively cover acne patches with makeup—the Invisibles from Hero Cosmetics are truly invisible. The tapered edges are what help them blend seamlessly with your skin, which means you can wear them throughout the day.

For sensitive skin Zeichner says to consider a patch that contains soothing botanicals. The Avarelle covers are spiked with calendula oil and tea tree oil, both natural ingredients known for their calming and anti-inflammatory powers. Plus, there are smaller round patches as well as extra-large squares that cover a swath of skin for larger flares.

These pimple patches contain soothing tea tree oil and calming witch hazel. The best part is they're a sound investment: They come in a box of 40 for only $7, which comes out to about 17 cents per patch. Not only will the box last you forever, but they're one of the highest-rated pimple patches on Amazon with a nearly perfect five-star rating.

If you have a deep complexion, pimple patches can be tricky since pimples typically heal with hyperpigmentation, which can potentially stick around for weeks or even months. In this case, Zeichner says to "look for exfoliating acids that help enhance cell turnover and can improve the appearance of dark spots." ZitSticka's Killa Patches are designed specifically to target early-stage pimples before they become inflamed. The clarifying kit comes with eight swabs soaked with exfoliating ingredients to help prep, along with eight micro-dart patches to soothe your acne away.

These pimple patches have self-dissolving micro-tips that go deep into your skin's surface to target dark spots. Made with a hydrating and brightening combination of hyaluronic acid and vitamin C, these won't only fade any discoloration; they'll also provide key antioxidants for your skin.