For skin
Pimples on your back, chest and jawline
We got this question from a customer recently, and figured the answer deserves to be shared for anyone else who’s wondering the same thing.
Is the roll tape different from the pimple patches? And can I use it on pimples that aren’t on my face?
Short answer: it’s the same stuff, just thicker. And yes, you can use it anywhere.
Tape or patches
Is it the same as the pimple patches?
Yep. Both are hydrocolloid (the gel our pimple patches are made of), with nothing else added. The tape is thicker, and it comes on a roll so you can cut it to whatever size you need.
For one spot on your face, the little dots are easier. They’re thin enough to sit flat under makeup. The tape is better when you’ve got a bunch of spots close together, like on your back or chest.
What it does
So what does it actually do?
It stops you picking. If it’s covered, you can’t get at it.
It helps an open spot heal. Once a pimple has come to a head, or you’ve picked it open, the gel soaks up the fluid, keeps dirt and bacteria out, and keeps the spot moist so it heals instead of scabbing over.
What it won’t do
Bring a pimple to a head. If it’s a sore lump under the skin with nothing on top, there’s nothing for the tape to soak up.
Stop new ones coming. It helps with the spots you’ve already got, one patch of skin at a time.
Why tape
Why use tape instead of the dots?
It’s cheaper when you’re covering a lot. For the same amount of skin, the roll tape costs a fraction of what the patches do.
Putting it on
How to make it stick
- 1
Make sure your skin is clean and properly dry. It won’t stick to damp or moisturised skin.
- 2
Cut a piece a bit bigger than the spots.
- 3
Round off the corners with scissors, so they don’t catch and peel up.
- 4
Press it down with your hand for about 30 seconds. The warmth helps it stick.
It can handle a bit of rubbing from clothes, but not a whole lot, so try not to be too rough with it.
Hairy spot? Trim it first, or it’ll pull when it comes off.
More tips on cutting the roll are in the tape guide.
Jawline
What about my jawline?
Use the dots during the day, since they’re thinner and hide under makeup. At night, a strip of tape along your jaw covers a whole row of spots.
If they’re sore lumps under the skin, those need a different patch. The under-skin guide explains which.
See a GP
When to see a GP instead
Deep, sore pimples that keep coming back.
Lots of small, itchy bumps that all look the same. That might not be acne.
Anything hot, swollen, spreading, or full of yellow or green pus. Don’t cover that one. See a doctor.
What to use
Tape or dots
Pimple patches
For one spot at a time, and for your face during the day. 39 for $6.99.
Pimple Patches →Quickfire round
Other questions
Is the roll tape different from the pimple patches?
It's the same gel, just thicker. You cut it to size instead of peeling off a dot.
Can I put it on a pimple I've already picked?
Yes, as long as it isn't infected. Clean it, let it dry, then cover it.
How long do I leave it on?
Until it starts to lift or peel off on its own, or until it turns from clear to white. White means it has soaked up all the fluid it can, and it's time for a fresh one.
Can I shower with it on?
Yes. Once it's on properly, it'll hold through a shower.
Will it get rid of my back acne?
No. It helps with the spots you've already got. If they keep coming back, see a GP.
Got a question we haven’t answered? Email hello@mendpatch.nz and a real person will reply.