Silicone patches for acne and anti-ageing are viral. But do they work?

Who doesn’t want clear and glowing skin? In fact, the entire 374-billion-dollar makeup and skincare industry often centres its marketing efforts around one primary goal: helping consumers achieve clear skin.
However, this goal is often obstructed by hurdles like acne, pores and wrinkles. To tackle these issues, social media is brimming with tips, tricks, hacks and products promising to help you achieve your skincare goals (though keeping track of them all is no easy feat).
The latest trend making waves on social media is silicone patches – an old dermatologist-recommended product now being hailed for its ‘potential benefits’.
According to social media, the benefits of silicone patches include:
These benefits have made silicone patches or tapes a viral sensation and the ‘IT product’ due to their ease of availability, affordability and, of course, their one-product-fixes-all approach to skincare woes. Moreover, as the trend grows, it’s not just skinfluencers endorsing the product – dermatologists online are also lending their approval.
Today, thanks to this trend, silicone patches have reached India as well, with many people trying these age-old tapes to resolve their skin issues. You can find them on any e-commerce website, like Amazon, Nykaa etc.

Silicone patches help in collagen production, which helps in achieving a glowing skin. Photo: Pexels

Now, if you’re thinking of adding to your nighttime skincare routine, hold up. We spoke to various experts and scrolled down to read what we found.
Initially developed for healing surgical scars and wounds, Dr Shristi, an aesthetic physician and founder of Aviv Aesthetics, Delhi, tells India Today that silicone tapes act as occlusive dressings on the skin.
These tapes work by locking in moisture retention that, in turn, promotes collagen production, which can help address various skincare concerns.
Dr Aparna Santhanam, a dermatologist from Mumbai, agrees and adds that these tapes are medical-grade adhesive strips made primarily of silicone.
“These are thin, flexible and designed to be applied directly to the skin. Originally developed for scar management in post-surgical and trauma cases, they improve the appearance of scars by hydrating the area, protecting it from environmental factors and supporting collagen remodelling,” she explains.

Silicone patches are easily available online. Photo: Amazon.in

Experts also agree that nowadays, these patches are trending as a treatment for acne scars, hyperpigmentation and even wrinkles, thanks to social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram.
Experts say these tapes can potentially help you achieve that clear skin if used correctly. If not, they can cause side effects.
For acne
Silicone tapes can help reduce the appearance of acne scars by providing hydration and improving collagen production in the skin.
Dr Sonali Kohli, a consultant dermatologist at Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital, Mumbai, says that silicone patches are very similar to pimple patches. She advises that both should only be used for specific indications and under a dermatologist’s guidance, as improper use of active acne can worsen the condition.
For anti-ageing
Dr Rinky Kapoor, a consultant dermatologist, cosmetic dermatologist, and dermato-surgeon, at the Esthetic Clinics, Mumbai, explains that silicone tapes can work by improving the texture and smoothness of your skin while reducing fine lines and wrinkles. The reason behind it is collagen production.
“Over time, they encourage skin repair,” she adds.
“Silicone tape does have some aesthetic value in assisting people with fine lines or wrinkles. When applied to the face, the tape can help keep the skin well moisturised, which in turn helps plump out lines around the face,” Dr Kohli says.
But, some experts do warn that silicone patches come with side effects.
For experts like Dr Kapoor, silicone tapes are considered safe to use, but they can cause various side effects for some. Dr Shristi agrees, and lists some of the side effects:
Sensitivity reactions
Within sensitive skin, prolonged application may lead to mild redness, itching, or some other slight irritation.
Acne
Reports of acne as a side effect are rare but are related to the constant application of tape, experts suggest.

If not used correctly, silicone tapes can cause acne, according to experts. Photo: Unsplash

Adverse reactions
Silicone tapes can cause allergic reactions to adhesive or silicone material, which can happen but is very unlikely.
Limited studies
Dr Kohli further says that silicone has long been a gold standard in scar management, with multiple studies confirming its efficacy.
However, for acne and anti-ageing, the evidence is less robust and often anecdotal. She advises to use it as a complementary measure rather than a standalone treatment.
You can avoid the side effects (mentioned above) of silicone patches by simply using them correctly. Here’s how to do so:
Begin by washing the skin with a mild cleanser to remove any dirt, oil or residue that might affect adhesion. Dry the area completely with a clean towel, as moisture can prevent the tape from sticking properly.
Measure the required length of tape according to the area of application. Use scissors to cut the tape to the appropriate size, ensuring there is no excess or shortage. If needed, round off the corners to help prevent peeling.
Position the tape over the target area gently, ensuring there is no stretching or tension while placing it. Applying the tape with tension can lead to discomfort or reduced effectiveness. Smooth it out evenly to ensure proper adhesion and to avoid wrinkles or air bubbles.
Keep the tape in place for the recommended duration, which is typically between 12 and 24 hours. Ensure the tape stays secure but check occasionally for signs of irritation or loosening.
Remove the tape carefully when the application period is over. If necessary, replace it with a fresh piece of tape daily, or follow the specific instructions provided by a healthcare professional or as per the product guidelines.
For medical-grade silicone tapes, always conduct a patch test before application on larger sections of the face. Remember to apply the tape with great care so as not to tear the skin underneath.