When it comes to smoothing fine lines, there are several approaches to take. Serums and lotions are likely the first salves that come to mind, but the best wrinkle patches are the new treatment on the block. Best used as quick, non-invasive, and affordable and solutions, these are not designed to replace Botox and filler, but rather in tandem with in-office, pro-grade procedures—or as part of a broader skin-care regimen. Subtle improvement is the name of the game here—think of them as a one-and-done option to hydrate and plump skin before special occasions, or a temporary alternative for the needle-averse.
Keep reading to learn how they work, how often to use them, what notable ingredients to look for, and our top picks, with insights from board-certified dermatologists.
Our Top Picks
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Best Overall: 111SKIN Wrinkle Erasing Retinol Patches
- Why We Love It: One of the things that sets 111Skin’s wrinkle patches apart from the rest is that each set features variously-sized patches suited for different areas of the face—including the nasolabial folds, frown lines, and crow’s feet. Plus, they’re infused with all the wrinkle-alleviating ingredients one could hope for. “[Featuring] hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, retinol, and polypeptides, these wrinkle patches deliver hydration and plumping effects to reduce fine lines,” says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Nicole Ruth. “These luxury patches are crafted to provide a spa-like experience with visible, short-term smoothing results.”
- Key Ingredients: Retinol, vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, peptides
- What’s Included: 2 semi-circle patches, 2 strips, 1 patch
- Skin Type: All skin types
Best Retinol Patches: Dr. Dennis Gross Advanced Retinol + Ferulic Perfectly Dosed Treatment
- Why We Love It: Instead of a leave-on patch, this Dr. Dennis Gross offering works like a toner pad to treat skin in just a few sweeps. “This pre-dosed retinol pad (each box contains 8 treatment pads) comes in two concentrations—one for novice users and another for experienced retinol users—to target stubborn fine lines,” explains board-certified dermatologist Dr. Brendan Camp. This way, you can choose a treatment best for your skin type. Ruth adds that this uses a Lyocell delivery system, which is derived from wood pulp and is biodegradable. “The material is friendly for all skin types and helps form an occlusive barrier to deliver its active ingredients, such as niacinamide, L-ascorbic acid, and green tea,” she says.
- Key Ingredients: Pure 0.2% retinol, bakuchiol, rambutan, ferulic acid, squalane, hyaluronic acid
- What’s Included: 8 treatment pads
- Skin Type: Oily, normal, dry, or combination skin types
Best Hydrocolloid Patch: Peace Out Microneedling Anti-Wrinkle Retinol Patches
- Why We Love It: Peace out, wrinkles! Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Blair Murphy-Rose explains that these hydrocolloid wrinkle patches, which feature 450 dissolving microneedles, contain retinol and peptides to promote skin renewal and boost collagen production. They also include hyaluronic acid, which helps to plump and smooth the skin while supporting the skin barrier. Camp is impressed with this ingredient list, citing this as an effective solution to treat crow’s feet, smile lines, forehead wrinkles, and vertical lines between the eyebrows.”
- Key Ingredients: Retinol, vitamin C, 7-peptide blend, hyaluronic acid
- What’s Included: 6 patches
- Skin Type: All skin types
Best Drugstore: RoC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Non-Invasive Targeted Patches
- Why We Love It: “These wrinkle patches are a great drugstore choice as they contain collagen-promoting retinol, firming peptides, and hyaluronic acid,” says Murphy-Rose. They feature a time-release retinol formula, making them ideal for gradually smoothing out wrinkles and fine lines. Plus, “Self-dissolving micro-cones on these pads contain potent age-defying ingredients, which help to plump and firm the skin,” per Camp.
- Key Ingredients: Retinol, peptides, hyaluronic acid
- What’s Included: 2 patches
- Skin Type: All skin types
Best Retinol-Free Option: Peter Thomas Roth FirmX Collagen Hydra-Gel Face and Eye Patches
- Why We Love It: If retinol doesn’t work for you, don’t fret—these patches are retinol-free and instead on focus plumping via hydration and marshmallow root to calm the skin (versus sped up cellular turnover). “Formulated with a high concentration of hyaluronic acid, these patches deeply hydrate and plump the skin. They are great right before special occasions or when you need a skincare boost,” says Dr. Ruth. Regarding the shape, Dr. Camp notes that the two versatile patch shapes allow for customized treatment of the forehead, as well as around the nose, eyes, and mouth.
- Key Ingredients:
- What’s Included: 3 types of patch shapes
- Skin Type: Dry and sensitive skin types
Best for Crow’s Feet: PCA Skin Hyaluronic Acid Microneedle Eye Patches
- Why We Love It: Designed specifically for the delicate skin around the eyes, PCA Skin’s Hyaluronic Acid Microneedle patches are one of Ruth’s top picks. “Enriched with powerful peptides and hyaluronic acid to enhance collagen production and reduce the appearance of wrinkles, these are designed for professional-level results, leaving the skin looking firmer and more youthful,” she says. You can apply them along dark circles and crow’s feet, just as you would any under-eye mask, leave on overnight (or at least 2-3 hours) to see best results.
- Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, daisy flower and hawkweed extract, acetyl octapeptide-3
- What’s Included: 4 treatments
- Skin Type: All skin types
Best for Fine Lines: Hero Cosmetics Mighty Patch for Fine Lines
- Why We Love It: “Featuring 1,390 dissolving micro-points, these fine line patches contain hyaluronic acid, retinol, and niacinamide to renew the appearance of the skin,” Camp explains of this set. A hidden gem among Hero Cosmetics’s lineup, the secret lies in the micro-point technology, which deposits targeted ingredients like retinol, sodium hyaluronate, and niacinamide directly into the skin. “While primarily known for its acne stickers, these wrinkle patches offer a gentle yet effective solution for fine lines,” says Ruth.
- Key Ingredients: Retinol, adenosine, sodium hyaluronate, niacinamide
- What’s Included: 6 patches
- Skin Type: All Skin Types
Do wrinkle patches actually work?
“Wrinkle patches can be somewhat effective for temporary results,” explains Ruth. These patches are designed to smooth out fine lines and wrinkles by adhering to the skin, preventing muscle movement and skin folding. Some patches are infused with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or peptides, which can hydrate the skin and promote collagen production. “Wrinkle patches that deliver retinol or peptides may offer longer-term benefits by boosting collagen production with consistent use,” adds Murphy-Rose.
However, it is important to have realistic expectations when using wrinkle patches, as they are not as effective as in-office treatments. The results are often short-lived, typically lasting only a few hours after the patch is removed. “They work best for superficial lines and as part of a broader skin-care routine, rather than as a stand-alone solution. I still recommend in-office procedures like neurotoxins or lasers to effectively combat wrinkles,” says Ruth.
What do wrinkle patches do?
“Wrinkle patches work by creating a physical barrier that smooths the skin, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles,” Ruth explains. The pressure from the patch can temporarily flatten the skin, preventing it from creasing during facial expressions. Some patches contain active ingredients like hyaluronic acid, peptides, or retinol, which can hydrate the skin, boost collagen production, and improve overall skin texture.
How do wrinkle patches differ from injectables like Botox?
Ruth explains that wrinkle patches and injectables like Botox are entirely different in both mechanism and the longevity of results. Botox is a neurotoxin that temporarily paralyzes the muscles that cause wrinkles, leading to smoother skin for several months. In contrast, wrinkle patches do not affect the muscles but create a physical barrier to prevent the skin from folding.
“As a board-certified dermatologist, I would recommend Botox over a patch any day, unless there are contraindications to neurotoxin treatments, such as pregnancy or breastfeeding,” says Ruth.
Who should be using wrinkle patches?
“I would recommend a wrinkle patch for patients looking to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, particularly those with early signs of aging,” says Ruth. They can be a good option for individuals who want to avoid or delay more invasive procedures like Botox or fillers, for example, younger individuals and those who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Those with sensitive skin might also find wrinkle patches a gentler alternative to other anti-aging treatments. “However, they work best for individuals with fine lines rather than deep wrinkles and should be viewed as a complementary treatment rather than a complete solution for aging skin,” Ruth instructs.
How often can you use wrinkle patches?
Wrinkle patches can typically be used as often as desired, though the exact frequency may depend on the specific product and its ingredients. Some people incorporate them into their nightly skin-care routine, while others might use them a few times a week or before special occasions. “It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid potential irritation, especially if the patches contain active ingredients like retinol, which can cause sensitivity if overused,” says Ruth.
What Ingredients to Look for in a Wrinkle Patch
When choosing wrinkle patches, look for ingredients known for their anti-aging properties. Ruth explains that hyaluronic acid is a standout for its ability to deeply hydrate and plump the skin, thereby reducing the appearance of fine lines. Peptides are also beneficial, as they help stimulate collagen production, which can improve skin elasticity and reduce wrinkles over time. Retinol, a form of vitamin A, is another powerful ingredient that promotes cell turnover and collagen synthesis, though it should be used with caution as it can cause irritation for some skin types and should be avoided by those who are pregnant or breastfeeding. “I also recommend masks that contain antioxidants like vitamin C, which can help protect the skin from environmental damage and brighten the complexion,” says Ruth.