This New Two-Stage Pimple Patch May Clear Acne in Days: Study Finds - Video

Waking up with a pimple may soon no longer be a worry, thanks to a new high-tech acne patch developed by scientists and detailed in a recent study published in ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces. The innovative two-stage patch, designed by researchers including Shayan Fakhraei Lahiji and Yong-Hee Kim, uses microscopic arrowhead-shaped spikes to firmly grip the skin and deliver targeted antibacterial and anti-inflammatory compounds directly into the pimple. In human trials, the patches cleared acne lesions completely within seven days.

Acne stickers, also known as pimple patches, have become a popular solution for spot-treating breakouts. Traditional versions use polymers that absorb moisture and oil, and some include medications to reduce inflammation. However, medicated patches that use microarrays—tiny spikes that deliver treatments into the skin—can sometimes shift during wear and cause irritation. To solve these issues, the research team developed a new patch featuring arrowhead-shaped microneedles printed using specialized 3D printing technology, designed to stay firmly in place during use.

The base of the patch is made from hyaluronic acid, a common and skin-friendly skincare ingredient. This base was infused with either antibacterial agents such as salicylic acid and Cannabis sativa extract, or anti-inflammatory agents like niacinamide and chamomile extract. In a clinical trial involving 20 participants, users applied the antibacterial patch on the first day, followed by a new anti-inflammatory patch daily for six days.

The microneedles dissolved painlessly into the skin within 30 to 90 minutes. After just three days, participants saw an 81% reduction in acne lesions in treated areas, and by day seven, the pimples had completely disappeared. Sebum levels also dropped significantly, and 95% of users reported being satisfied with the results.

Looking ahead, they believe the technology could be adapted for broader medical use. “Our work highlights the potential of microarray patches as a platform for applications beyond acne treatment, ranging from skin disorders to obesity therapies and vaccine delivery,” explains Kim.

Reference: Jisook Park, Jaehyun Kim, Shayan Fakhraei Lahiji, Yong-Hee Kim. Dual-Phase Antibacterial and Anti-inflammatory Self-Locking Microarray Patches for the Effective Treatment of Acne Vulgaris. ACS Applied Materials, 2025; 17 (32): 45438 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.5c07718