Most Wrinkle Patches Do not Work. These Do

Editor’s tip: The patch’s coenzyme Q10 additionally helps enhance elasticity and refresh drained, puffy eyes for a extra energized look.

Key substances: Icelandic glacial water, hyaluronic acid, peptides, acetyl hexapeptide-8, coenzyme Q10 | Perfume-free: sure | Amount: 5 units


Steadily Requested Questions

What’s a wrinkle patch?

A wrinkle patch is a focused therapy for nice strains and wrinkles, however not all patches are created equal. Not like face tapes, which briefly clean pores and skin by holding it in place, true wrinkle patches pack a punch with energetic substances like retinol, peptides, and hyaluronic acid to enhance pores and skin over time.

“On prime of infusing pores and skin with wrinkle-smoothing substances, they do extra—in addition they assist restrict pores and skin motion and lock in moisture, particularly if worn in a single day. They’re extremely handy and mess-free, which makes them an ideal journey must-have,” says Dr. Vasile. Some use dissolving microneedles to ship substances deep into the pores and skin, whereas others act like moisture-locking shields to spice up hydration and restore.

Do wrinkle patches truly work?

Wrinkle patches work—however how properly they work relies on the sort. Hydrogel or adhesive patches create a sealing impact, permitting actives to extra successfully whereas additionally stopping moisture loss. “I at all times search for wrinkle patches that supply extra than simply bodily pressure—they want energetic substances like retinol, peptides, and hyaluronic acid that ship actual pores and skin advantages. I like that they aim the deeper layers of the pores and skin, offering a long-term resolution fairly than only a fast repair,” says Kristina Collins, MD, a double board-certified dermatologist primarily based in Austin.

In the meantime, microneedle patches take it additional: “Microdart expertise creates microscopic pathways into the highest layers of the pores and skin, thereby doubtlessly enhancing ingredient supply in comparison with conventional topical software,” says Dr. Rambhia. Whereas they received’t change in-office therapies, they’ll briefly plump nice strains, enhance hydration, and enhance pores and skin texture with constant use. “Not like Botox, which relaxes wrinkle-causing muscle groups, patches—like most skincare—can’t utterly stop deeper strains from forming,” says Dr. Bowles. “They’re extra of a short-term repair fairly than a long-term resolution.”

Are there any drawbacks to wrinkle patches?

Whereas wrinkle patches may be an efficient a part of a skin-care routine, they’ve limitations. For one, since they’re single-use merchandise, the price can add up. Plus, folks with delicate pores and skin could expertise irritation or adhesive sensitivity, particularly with prolonged use or if they’ve micro-darts, in accordance with Dr. Rambhia. “The outcomes are additionally non permanent—lasting just a few hours to days after removing—which suggests constant use is critical for upkeep,” she says. And eventually, “for patches with energetic substances, there’s additionally the problem of ingredient stability and making certain enough focus for efficacy, which is not at all times assured throughout manufacturers,” she says.


Meet the consultants

  • Pooja Rambhia, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at UnionDerm in NYC
  • Alexandra Bowles, a board-certified dermatologist at MONA Dermatology in Cincinnati, OH
  • Gabriella Vasile, MD, a double board-certified dermatologist and founding father of Réforme Dermatology and Aesthetics primarily based in Charleston and Mt. Nice, South Carolina
  • Brooke Jeffy, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founding father of BTWN in Scottsdale, Arizona
  • Michelle Henry, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Pores and skin & Aesthetic Surgical procedure in NYC
  • Kristina Collins, MD, a double board-certified dermatologist primarily based in Austin

How we take a look at and evaluate merchandise

Earlier than reviewing any make-up, we ask questions on various elements: What substances are in it? Does the model supply a large shade vary inclusive of customers with all pores and skin tones and undertones? Is it protected for readers who’ve delicate pores and skin or put on contact lenses? Is it on the reasonably priced aspect or extra of a splurge? Is its packaging consciously designed or needlessly wasteful?