Proactiv contains acne-fighting ingredients that may help treat mild to moderate acne breakouts. It won't help you if you have severe acne or cystic or nodular acne, though. Keep in mind that a good skin care routine should focus on keeping skin healthy, in addition to targeting and fighting acne.

The patch often has an outer layer that protects the skin from bacteria or infection. The inner layer can absorb any fluid that leaks from a pimple, such as pus or discharge. The moisture from the hydrocolloid gel promotes healing and protects your skin from infection at the same time.

For most people, pimple patches are, at worst, simply unhelpful - which is to say that they won't make your acne worse, but they won't make it better, either. If you have sensitive skin, though, you may want to steer clear of pimple patches.

Contrary to popular believe that the white stuff is pus pulled out from their blemish by the acne patch, it is actually hydrated hydrocolloid. As mentioned above, hydrocolloid absorbs excess fluids surrounding a pimple to form a soft gel, creating an ideal healing environment.

Side Effects of Proactiv These are mainly dryness, skin infections and infestations and nasopharyngitis (swelling of the nasal passage and back of the throat). A few people in trials have also experienced burning at the application site, influenza, sinusitis and gastroenteritis.

SAFE FOR ALL AGES AND SKIN TYPES - Proactiv's 3-Step Kit provides the same powerful skin care for teens and adults, and is great for sensitive skin.

"Pimple patches absorb the impurities trapped under skin to flatten breakouts and protect the wound from external bacteria or face-picking," explains Soko Glam co-founder and K-beauty expert Charlotte Cho of the multiple benefits of employing a pimple patch during this time.

There's no real 'rule' on how frequently you should be applying a pimple patch, they can really be used whenever needed. The frequency of use will also depend on your individual skin type and the severity of the breakouts you're experiencing.

Healthline's picks of the 10 best acne patches to try

• COSRX Acne Pimple Master Patch.
• Rael Miracle Patch Microcrystal Spot Cover.
• Mighty Patch Original.
• Nexcare Acne Blemish Cover.
• Acropass Trouble Cure.
• ZitSticka KILLA Kit.
• Peace Out Acne Healing Dots.
• Dr. Jart+ Focuspot Blemish Micro Tip Patch.

In the case of people with darker skin tones, there is the added risk of developing dark marks or hyperpigmentation. Even though medicated pimple patches are small and unlikely to damage the skin, using them in quick succession can end up irritating the skin.

Each type of Mighty Patch has active ingredients for specific goals - from healing active acne to fading dark spots after a breakout.

For some people, Proactiv does a good job of clearing up acne (or at least keeping it under control). But for others, Proactiv just isn't effective. The result you get is completely dependent on your skin and the severity of your acne.

Yes. Proactiv products are designed for acne-prone skin. No matter your ethnicity or skin type – dry, oily, combination, normal or sensitive – Proactiv will have the right combination of products for you.

Designed specifically for acne-prone skin, Proactiv delivers finely-milled benzoyl peroxide deep into your pores to help stop acne-causing bacteria in its tracks and prevent new breakouts from forming.

Proactiv offers dermatologist-developed and dermatologist-tested treatment systems. Each system contains clinically-proven ingredients so you can successfully take care of your skin.

• Amazon's Choice.
• Mighty Patch Invisible Hydrocolloid Acne Pimple Patch Ultra Thin Spot Treatment (39 count) for Face and Day, Vegan, Cruelty-Free.
• COSRX Master Patch Intensive 90 Patches (Value Pack) | Oval-Shaped Hydrocolloid Acne Pimple Patch with Tea Tree Oil | Quick & Easy Treatment.