Many of us have experienced the frustration of looking in the mirror only to find an unwelcome zit staring back at us, leaving us to wonder whether to pop it or not! For teenagers and young adults, this can be a challenging time when insecurities may rise and self-esteem is affected.
“Usually, when you say pimples, you get teased to take a bath,” shared filmmaker and Chief Marketing Officer Gayle Oblea. But, she quickly added, “It’s normal to have pimples.”
What if, instead of hiding those blemishes, we could embrace them—or even celebrate them? That is the innovative idea behind Matchy Patchy, the Philippines’ first aesthetic pimple patches.
Redefining “flawless”
For too long, teenagers have been bombarded with images of “perfect” skin, airbrushed and blemish-free. This unrealistic standard brought to us by filters and mobile photo editing apps can lead to feelings of insecurity and low self-esteem when breakouts are inevitable for many of them. It is a blessing when a brand challenges this notion, promoting a more inclusive definition of beauty that embraces flaws.
Skincare meets self-expression
With six vibrant designs, each pack of Matchy Patchy contains 20 eye-catching patches.
“We have six different designs of our pimple patches,” Oblea said. “Each pack has 20 pieces inside.”
From stars and hearts (“Catch A Twinkle” and “Love Me, Cupid”) to holographic gems (“Gem Shell Glow”), delicate flowers (“In Full Bloom”), and playful shapes (“Cut To The Shape”),
Matchy Patchy turns a skincare necessity into a fashion statement. Teens can match their patches to their moods, outfits, or personalities, allowing them to express their individuality while caring for their skin.
Effective and empowering
While style is a key component, effectiveness is still key.
“One thing that you’d like about the pimple patches is that it’s not just for aesthetic reasons but it’s also very effective,” Oblea assured.
Made in Korea with hydrocolloid and tea tree oil, the patches are designed to dry up pimples in six to eight hours. This quick action not only helps clear up blemishes but also provides a sense of control and empowerment, showing teens that they can actively manage their breakouts without having to hide from the world or sacrifice their self-expression.
Targeting Filipino teens
Although manufactured in Korea, Matchy Patchy is a proudly Filipino brand.\
“We are a Filipino brand so meaning to say that when we went to Korea we just really made sure that the ingredients used are of quality,” Oblea stated.
They took into account the Filipino skin type and tropical weather, ensuring the patches are “friendly to those who have oily or dry skin,” a common concern for teens.
Connecting with the ‘Breakout Generation’
The brand’s marketing strategy focuses on reaching teens where they are. “Well, one thing is for sure, we’re really targeting the teens and of course, the mid-twenties,” Oblea confirmed. Why? “Because usually, the younger you are, the more breakouts you experience.”
To connect with this demographic, they’re collaborating with bands, organizing events in schools, and even targeting call centers.
“We’re trying to tour around Metro Manila and collaborate with different bands because most of the people who go to their gigs are the ones who experience these breakouts. And then later on, we’re gonna be targeting schools and of course, call centers because they don’t get to sleep right.”
Building confidence, one patch at a time
Aesthetic pimple patches are a symbol of self-acceptance and confidence. By encouraging teens to embrace their breakouts and express their individuality, the product is helping to redefine beauty standards and promote a healthier relationship with one’s skin.
“So now when we spoke and when we sat down,” Oblea continued to explain, “the whole point is to make sure that we go outside of the box. Embrace who you are. Embrace yourself.”
Ready to make a statement?
Teens ready to ditch the breakout drama and embrace their unique beauty can find Matchy Patchy online. “This is already available on our TikTok shop. You just have to look for Matchy Patchy Official and also our website matchypatchyofficial.com,” Oblea announced.
With aesthetic pimple patches, breakouts should no longer be a major source of shame. Match your patch to how you feel, let go, and let your pimples heal. Whether it’s a star or a heart for your pimple patch, your personality shines through so just keep things real.
