Face masking (opens in new tab) has taken on a new, selfie-inspiring (opens in new tab) life over the past year, and now we're on the brink of another all-important beauty ritual renaissance—for zit zapping. Welcome to the rise of pimple stickers, which have become very popular in Korea and are starting to gain traction stateside. (Thank goodness.)
Kind of like mini sheet masks for your blemishes, the patches contain a concentrated amount of active ingredients, namely notorious pore unclogger salicylic acid and hydrocolloid, an ingredient that you'll often find in products meant to take care of wounds. Combined in sticker form, they lock in treatment and minimize the size of a zit without drying out your skin, visible irritation, or our biggest fear of all, scarring. The patches, which you're advised to keep on for a couple of hours, also protect the inflamed area from bacteria, dirt, and your pick-happy fingers.
As for when to press on the stickers, it can be at virtually any time—whether it's when you're unwinding at the end of the day, turning in for the night, or even as you run errands—as it's kosher to apply concealer over the stickers (although, it will be noticeable to anyone all up in your grill). Here, find our 3 favorite options for unwelcome flare-ups, from the K-beauty must-have to the one ready and waiting at your local drugstore.
1. The K-Beauty MVP: Corsx Acne Pimple Master Patch, $4; cupiddrop.com (opens in new tab).
Beloved by the K-beauty community, the ziplock package keeps things fresh. Plus, at just $4 for 24 patches, it gives you the most bang for your buck.
2. The I'm-Feeling-Fancy Splurge: Sarah Chapman Spot Stickerm $40; net-a-porter.com.
Created by UK facialist Sarah Chapman, this 16-piece set of stickers infused with grape seed and soy oil comes in a fancy white mirrored wallet, which is perfect for throwing in your purse on the go.
3. The It's-Just-Around-the-Corner Treatment: Nexcare Acne Absorbing Covers, $7.99; drugstore.com.
Popular in Asia, but available at your local drugstore, these 36 sponge-like patches are a bit sticky, but get the job done.
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