The days of piling on concealer or foundation to hide a stubborn spot are behind us.

Nowadays, pimples can be a fashion statement, thanks to spot patches that come in various shapes and sizes, from neon stars and smiley faces to black hearts for those feeling a bit emo.

If you're not quite ready to flaunt them, these translucent pimple patches are being hailed as 'lifesavers' by many, and at just £4.19, they won't strain your budget.

But how do they actually function? Get ready, because the reality is a bit gross...

Dots For Spots pimple patches, made in Korea, come in packs of 24 clear covers and are regarded by many as the ultimate skincare solution.

How do spot patches work?

Spot patches generally contain a hydrocolloid, a material initially developed for wound care, which helps to attract and absorb fluids like oil, pus, and sebum from the skin.

The sticker also forms a gel over the spot, aiding in its healing process and reducing inflammation and itching.

The physical barrier provided by a spot patch also encourages faster healing by reducing the urge to scratch, squeeze, or pick at the pimples (guilty as charged!).

They are most effective when left on for over six hours, ideally worn overnight.

These patches have been dubbed 'lifesavers' by satisfied customers (Amazon)

Once the center of the patch turns opaque white, you can gently peel it off and wipe away any residue.

Dr. Sina Ghadiri, a consultant dermatologist and founder of Sinaesthetics, told Tyla: "Pimple or spot patches are typically made of hydrocolloid material, a gel-forming agent and adhesive that draws out excess fluid, pus, and oil from the spot while maintaining a moist environment that promotes healing.

"Some patches are infused with active ingredients like salicylic acid or tea tree oil to help reduce inflammation and help blemishes resolve faster. They also serve as a physical barrier, protecting the area from picking and external irritants."

How to use pimple patches

Dr. Sina recommends pimple patches for "isolated whiteheads or pustules that have surfaced," noting that the patch size should slightly exceed the area of the lesion.

However, a word of caution for those looking to treat deeper, inflamed nodules or cysts: patches may be less effective in such cases.

Here are Dr. Sina's instructions for maximizing their effectiveness:

1. Begin with dry skin after a gentle cleanse. Avoid applying moisturizer or treatment serums directly under the patch, as they can interfere with adhesion.
2. Apply the patch directly to the blemish, ideally using clean forceps, and leave it on for several hours or ideally overnight.
3. Once removed, gently cleanse the area again if needed. They are best used before going to sleep and removed in the morning.

One happy customer shared a pic to show how well they blend in (Amazon Reviews)

What do customers say?

These Dots for Spots patches have garnered over 40,000 reviews on Amazon, with 67% awarding them 5 stars.

"I suffer from bad hormonal breakouts and when I use one of these dots, within hours the spots are cleared and heal well," praised one user.

Another called them a 'game-changer,' stating: "I highly recommend these to anyone dealing with breakouts. I've already suggested them to several friends, and I'll definitely be buying more!"

"Apply the sticker at the whitehead stage. Put it on cleansed skin before bed, and watch the miracle peel off in the morning," shared one fan, along with the picture below.

Customers have shared their successful results (Amazon Reviews)

Another fan exclaimed: "I would give more stars if I could. These dots for spots have transformed my life. They don't just reduce spots and redness, they eventually eliminate them—and by 'eventually,' I mean quickly!"

"I rarely write reviews, but this is truly the best skincare product I've ever used. I had the worst spot of my life & bought this.

"By the next day, it was completely flat & the day after, almost gone. Similar spots have taken around a month to fully heal before. I can't recommend this enough & could not believe the results," added another satisfied buyer.