Pimple Stickers Are Your New Blemish-Busting Savior
Stick and zap.


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.
Follow Marie Claire on Instagram (opens in new tab) for the latest celeb news, pretty pics, funny stuff, and an insider POV.
I’m the associate web editor at Marie Claire. I love to while away the hours at coffee shops, hunt for vintage clothes, and bask in the rough-and-tumble beauty of NYC. I firmly believe that solitude can be a luxury if you’ve got the right soundtrack—that being the Rolling Stones, of course.
-
Selena Gomez’s New Hair Transformation Is So Major
The actress debuted super-long locks, freshly cut bangs, and an auburn hue.
By Samantha Holender
-
The Very Best Memorial Day Fashion Sales of 2022
Time to find a new bathing suit, bag, or wedding guest dress!
By Julia Marzovilla
-
The Wrong Formula
In the face of a baby food shortage, desperate moms are turning to strangers on Facebook to help—but social media shouldn't be the answer.
By Hayley Phelan
-
The 32 Best Summer Perfumes to Spritz Anytime and Anywhere
Scents to bask in.
By Gabrielle Ulubay
-
Experts Explain How to Make Your Bikini Wax Less Painful
It all starts with preparation.
By Samantha Holender
-
The 26 Best Sunscreens Ever for Your Face and Body
Formulas to stock up on, stat.
By Samantha Holender
-
The 10 Best Supplements for Skin to Add to Your Daily Routine
From glow-boosting gummies to acne-fighting pills.
By Samantha Holender
-
The 18 Best Mascaras, According to Marie Claire Editors
"It feels like I've been searching for the perfect mascara since birth, but I think I've finally landed on a keeper..."
By Julia Marzovilla
-
The 50 Best Hairstyles for Thin, Fine Hair That Never Fall Flat
Fake-it-'til-you-make-it volume.
By Tatjana Freund
-
The 10 Best Eyeshadows for Darker Skin Tones That Will Make Your Eyes Pop
Palettes, pigments, and shimmers with incredible color payoff.
By Taylore Glynn
-
The Andie MacDowell Renaissance Is Upon Us
The '90s icon has always done things her own way. Now, the world is finally catching up to her.
By Sara Stewart