As we all know, MULTI Patch is a versatile product that’s specifically designed to reduce the appearance and size of blemishes, absorb fluid from wounds, and protect the outermost layer of the skin barrier. However, we all know that standard hydrocolloid patches have a few limitations – namely one being that they’re not always designed to go below the skin’s outer surface, like a beta-hydroxy acid would. Therefore, pairing products alongside patches is key, especially if you do it right (Here’s a short blog post about how to properly use a hydrocolloid patch, if you’re interested). Here are some of the most effective types of products to use when you’re not using your patches to combat those pimples:

1. Beta-hydroxy acids (BHA’s)

BHAs go below the skin’s surface to gently break up blockages that are clogging your pores (as opposed to AHA’s which exfoliate above the skin’s surface). When paired with hydrocolloid patches, we recommend using a product like Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid with a cotton pad to exfoliate the area, and then applying a hydrocolloid patch on top before continuing the rest of your routine. Because the product is meant to go below the skin’s surface, the patch’s function will not be disrupted.

2. Hyperpigmentation Actives

Getting hyperpigmentation spots from breakouts can be frustrating. However, using a hydrocolloid patch allows your blemish to heal quicker, shield from picking, and therefore result in less hyperpigmentation. On top of that, we recommend using a hyperpigmentation product with validated actives like alpha-arbutin, licorice root extract, and kojic acid such as in Good Molecules Discoloration Correcting Serum, Topicals Faded Serum, or Of Other Worlds Light Beams in the blemish area when you’re not wearing the patch to accelerate fading.

3. Retinoids

We think it’s a little known fact that retinoids are exfoliating superstars. Yes, they’re even up there with AHAs and BHAs. Therefore, our tried and true patch pairing that we always recommend for our acne-prone community is a retinoid at night, and the patch on your blemishes during the day. As a reminder, retinoids are a class of active ingredients such as retinol, retinyl palmitate, and retinaldehyde that result in skin benefits across the board like skin cell turnover, increase in moisture, and reduced appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Some of our favorite gentle retinoids are Youth To The People Retinal + Niacinamide Youth Serum, and Rose Ingleton MD’s Retexturizing Booster.

There are millions of other patch pairings that we love, but these are by far the top 3 that we think are some of the most useful for everyday skin use. And remember – always apply the patch on clean skin! Our MULTI PATCH is coming soon, sign up for our waitlist HERE

DISCLAIMER: THIS POST DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AS MEDICAL ADVICE. THIS POST IS NOT MEANT TO TREAT, CURE, PREVENT, OR DIAGNOSE CONDITIONS OR DISEASES; AND IS MEANT FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES. AS ALWAYS, PLEASE CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE TRYING ANY NEW TREATMENTS OR SUPPLEMENTS.