Acne/pimples/zits are a rite of passage and often feel like a teenager’s worst nightmare as they approach adulthood. This can be a stressful time for both children and parents.
Waking up to a glaring red bump/zit on your face can be truly unsettling. These small, inflamed, and sometimes painful spots often have a white or yellow pus-filled tip, making them even more noticeable. So, how do you deal with them?
Why Do Kids Get Pimples?
Preadolescent acne is caused by increased hormones that boost sebum production, an oily substance that can lead to clogged pores. Girls with severe acne during this stage may experience an earlier onset of their periods compared to their peers.
Stanford Medicine Children’s Health paediatrician Nivedita More, MD says
Just about everybody gets acne at some point. Acne is the most common skin disorder. It peaks in adolescence and affects more than 80% to 85% of youths, especially between the ages of 12 and 30.
A lot of teens don’t understand that you have to be regimented about it, just like brushing your teeth every night.
That routine should include:
- Cleansing twice a day.
- Exfoliating a couple of times a week.
- Apply a moisturizer after washing.
- Wearing sunscreen during the day.
- Don’t touch the pimples – it could cause infection
We asked dermatologist Dr Batul Patel, Medical Director at The Bombay Skin Clinic to break it down for us into simple terms
What Are Hydrocolloid Pimple Patches

Hydrocolloid patches, commonly known as pimple patches, have become a popular skincare solution, especially for teenagers dealing with acne. These small, sticker-like patches promise to speed up healing, reduce redness, and protect blemishes.
Pimple patches are small, clear stickers that help treat pimples. They are made from a material called hydrocolloid, which absorbs the fluid and pus from pimples, helping to reduce redness and swelling and contain Hydrochloride, Salicylic Acid, Tea Tee Oil, Centella etc. These patches also act as a shield, keeping dirt and germs away from the pimple, which can stop it from getting worse.
Dermatologist Dr Su shares that
One of the best things about pimple patches is that they are safe to use for all age groups including teenagers and help stop them from squeezing or picking at their pimples, which can cause scars.
Pros of Hydrocolloid Patches for Teenagers

- Hydrocolloid patches do not contain active acne-fighting chemicals, making them safe for sensitive teenage skin.
- They act as a physical barrier, stopping teens from touching or picking at pimples, which reduces the risk of scarring and infection.
- The patches absorb pus and oil while keeping the area moist, creating an ideal environment for healing.
- Most patches are transparent or skin-coloured, making them discreet for daytime use.
- They minimize irritation and redness by protecting the affected area from external bacteria.
Cons of Hydrocolloid Patches
- Hydrocolloid patches are best for active acne with small pustules or recently picked acne. They are less effective for cystic, nodular or deep acne.
- While they treat individual pimples, they don’t address underlying causes of acne, such as hormonal imbalances or poor skincare habits.
- Though rare, some teens might experience mild irritation or allergic reactions to the adhesive
- Patches shouldn’t be applied to broken skin or popped pimples as this can trap bacteria.
How To Use Pimple Patches
- You may have sensitive skin and might experience redness or irritation, so it’s a good idea to try it on a small spot first. Always do a patch test so you can check for allergic reactions
- To use a pimple patch, first clean your face.
- Then, stick the patch directly on the pimple. The patch will blend in with your skin, so you can wear it during the day without anyone noticing.
- However, pimple patches work best for certain types of acne, like pimples that have pus in them. They are not very helpful for deep, painful acne.
- Lastly, if your child has very oily skin, the patch might not stick well.
- Overall, pimple patches are a great, easy way to help heal pimples while protecting the skin.
However, they work best as part of a broader skincare routine and are not a replacement for professional care in cases of severe or persistent acne. Please consult a dermatologist before trying any new products on your teen’s sensitive skin.
Dermatologist Recommendations
Derma Angel Acne Patch

Nua Hydrocolloid and Salicylic Acid Patches

Dermaco Micro Tip Salicylic Acid Patches
