Pimple Paste Overnight Blemish Drying Paste
Pimple Paste Overnight Blemish Drying Paste
Product Description
Product overview
A fast-acting, alcohol-free overnight drying paste that targets blemishes with a potent blend of sulfur, willow bark, clay, azelaic acid derivative, tea tree, oregano, thyme, and vitamin C. This naturally blue, transfer-proof formula dries down quickly so it won't rub off on your pillow while it works to reduce pimple size and redness by morning.
Overnight Blemish Treatment
Clinically shown to visibly reduce blemish size overnight. 100% of panelists saw a decrease in blemish size in a 1-week consumer study.
Texture & feel
SENSORYOvernight Blemish Treatment
Clinically shown to visibly reduce blemish size overnight. 100% of panelists saw a decrease in blemish size in a 1-week consumer study.
Transfer-Proof Formula
Unique naturally blue paste dries down quickly into a transfer-proof layer that won't rub off on your pillow, sheets, or clothing.
8 Active Botanicals
Powered by willow bark, sulfur, tea tree, azelaic acid, clay, zinc, oregano, and thyme — natural alternatives to harsh synthetic actives.
Alcohol-Free Drying Action
Dries out blemishes without stripping the skin. Clay and sulfur absorb excess oil while aloe and watermelon extract soothe irritation.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains Willow Bark Extract (natural salicin, a salicylic acid precursor) and Camphor Oil. Consult your doctor before use during pregnancy or nursing.
Free from ferments, fatty acids, esters, and polysorbates that feed malassezia yeast. Safe for fungal acne-prone skin.
Rated 1/5 — formulated primarily with clays and sulfur, which are non-pore-clogging. No heavy oils or waxes in the formula.
Free from parabens, sulfates, phthalates, mineral oils, alcohol, silicones, and synthetic fragrances. Clean at Sephora certified.
Contains tea tree, oregano, thyme, and camphor essential oils. While beneficial for acne, those with essential oil sensitivities should patch test first.
Can be used alongside retinol or chemical exfoliants. Apply the spot treatment last, only on blemishes, to avoid over-drying.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSKaolin & Bentonite ClayProven
Dual clay system that acts as the backbone of this drying paste. Kaolin absorbs excess sebum without over-stripping, while bentonite draws out impurities with its negative ionic charge, pulling bacteria and toxins from pores.
- Mechanism: Oil absorption and pore detoxification through ionic attraction
- Benefit: Instantly mattifies skin and reduces oiliness around blemishes
SulfurProven
A time-tested acne-fighting ingredient with antibacterial and keratolytic properties. Sulfur helps unclog pores by breaking down dead skin cells while reducing acne-causing bacteria on the skin's surface.
- Research: Sulfur has been used to treat acne for centuries; it is an FDA-recognized OTC acne ingredient
- Action: Antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and sebum-regulating
Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract ~2%Promising
Nature's alternative to salicylic acid. Contains salicin, which can be converted to salicylic acid to gently exfoliate inside pores and calm inflammation. Gentler than synthetic BHA but with similar benefits.
- Compound: Contains salicin, a natural precursor to salicylic acid
- Benefit: Anti-inflammatory and mild exfoliant that helps clear clogged pores
Potassium Azeloyl DiglycinatePromising
A water-soluble derivative of azelaic acid that helps fade post-blemish dark spots and reduces redness. More bioavailable than standard azelaic acid and better suited for water-based formulas like this paste.
- Action: Brightening, anti-redness, and anti-blemish properties
- Advantage: Better water solubility than pure azelaic acid for enhanced delivery
Tea Tree, Oregano & Thyme OilsProven
A triple-threat antimicrobial blend. Tea tree oil (Melaleuca alternifolia) is one of the most studied natural anti-acne ingredients. Oregano and thyme oils provide additional antibacterial action against acne-causing P. acnes bacteria.
- Tea Tree: Multiple studies show 5% tea tree oil comparable to 5% benzoyl peroxide for acne
- Thyme & Oregano: Research shows potent antibacterial activity against acne bacteria
Ascorbyl Glucoside (Vitamin C)Promising
A stable vitamin C derivative that helps brighten post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation left behind by blemishes. More stable than L-ascorbic acid, though effective concentrations may need to be higher.
- Stability: Highly stable form of vitamin C, resistant to oxidation
- Benefit: Targets post-acne dark marks and supports skin repair
Zinc SulfateProven
A mineral compound with anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties. Zinc helps regulate oil production, supports the skin's healing process, and has mild antibacterial effects that complement sulfur.
- Research: Oral and topical zinc shown to reduce inflammatory acne lesions
- Benefit: Oil control, anti-inflammatory, and promotes faster healing
33 ingredients
Water/Aqua/Eau, Kaolin, Bentonite, Propanediol, Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract, Sulfur, Magnesium Aluminum Silicate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Ascorbyl Glucoside, Silica, Thymus Vulgaris (Thyme) Flower/Leaf Oil, Origanum Vulgare (Oregano) Leaf Oil, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Potassium Azeloyl Diglycinate, Magnesium Sulfate, Zinc Sulfate, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Cinnamomum Camphora Bark Oil, Citrullus Lanatus (Watermelon) Fruit Extract, Genipa Americana Extract, Arginine, Acacia Senegal Gum, Citric Acid, Cellulose Gum, Algin, Xanthan Gum, Maltodextrin, Sodium Citrate, Sodium Phytate, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Aluminum Hydroxide, Hydroxyacetophenone, Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891).
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply as the last step in your PM routine, directly on blemishes. The paste should go on top of your moisturizer for a protective, transfer-proof layer overnight.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Complete Your Routine
Wash your face and apply the rest of your skincare (toner, serum, moisturizer) as usual before applying Pimple Paste.
Apply a Thin Layer First
Squeeze a small amount and massage a thin layer directly into the blemish to push the active ingredients into the skin.
Add a Thick Layer on Top
Apply a thicker, visible layer of paste on top of the blemish. For clusters of breakouts, spread a thin layer across the entire affected area.
Leave On Overnight & Rinse in AM
Let the paste dry completely (2-3 minutes) — it becomes transfer-proof. Leave on overnight and wash off in the morning. Use as often as desired.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You get occasional to frequent breakouts and want fast overnight results
- You prefer clean, natural-ingredient spot treatments over harsh chemicals
- You need a transfer-proof formula that won't stain your pillowcase
- You have hormonal or cystic acne that flares up periodically
- You want to fade post-blemish dark spots as well as treat active pimples
- You have oily or combination skin prone to excess sebum
Consider alternatives if:
- You are highly sensitive to essential oils (tea tree, oregano, thyme, camphor)
- You prefer a medicated benzoyl peroxide or adapalene prescription treatment
- You have very dry skin and are concerned about drying effects
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (contains willow bark and camphor)
- You want a daytime-invisible treatment (this paste is visibly blue when applied)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal match. Clay and sulfur absorb excess oil at the blemish site while zinc helps regulate sebum production.
Great as a targeted spot treatment. Apply only to blemishes so it dries oily spots without affecting drier areas.
Works well for occasional breakouts. The aloe and watermelon extract help prevent irritation on balanced skin.
The drying action may cause flakiness around treated areas. Apply over a moisturizer and limit to active blemishes only.
Contains multiple essential oils that may irritate very reactive skin. Patch test recommended. Alcohol-free formulation is a plus.
Designed specifically for this skin type. Non-comedogenic, fungal acne safe, and clinically shown to reduce breakouts.
Results timeline
2-4 WEEKSVisible Blemish Size Reduction
Pimple appears noticeably smaller, less inflamed, and less red. The paste draws out oil and impurities while you sleep.
100% saw decrease in blemish size overnightBlemish Drying & Healing
Active pimples are significantly dried out. Surface blemishes flatten as sulfur and clay continue to absorb excess sebum and impurities.
85% report significant improvementFewer New Breakouts
With consistent nightly use, new blemish formation is reduced. The antimicrobial botanicals help prevent acne bacteria from spreading.
96% saw reduction in new blemishesPost-Blemish Marks Fade
Azelaic acid derivative and vitamin C work to brighten post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, leaving skin more even-toned.
70% noticed fading of dark spotsRatings by platform
2K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Visibly shrinks pimples overnight — users report waking up to noticeably smaller blemishes
- Transfer-proof formula stays put on the skin and doesn't stain pillowcases
- Clean, alcohol-free formula that dries blemishes without over-drying surrounding skin
- Works on hormonal, cystic, and surface breakouts
- Pleasant herbal scent instead of the usual medicinal smell of acne treatments
- Vegan, cruelty-free, and Clean at Sephora certified
- Also helps fade post-blemish dark marks with azelaic acid and vitamin C
Criticized
- Small tube (0.5 oz) runs out quickly for users with frequent or widespread breakouts
- Blue color is visible when applied — not suitable for daytime use without concealer
- Essential oils (tea tree, oregano, thyme) may irritate very sensitive skin
- Higher cost per ounce compared to drugstore alternatives like De La Cruz Sulfur
- Some users find the herbal scent too strong for bedtime use
- Less effective on deep cystic acne compared to prescription treatments
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESHigher sulfur concentration (10%) at a fraction of the price. Lacks the botanical blend (no tea tree, oregano, willow bark, or azelaic acid) and is not transfer-proof. Greasier texture.
Iconic pink calamine-based spot treatment with sulfur and salicylic acid. Contains isopropyl alcohol (drying) and is not transfer-proof. Liquid format requires cotton swab application. Not clean formula.
Clay-based mask with salicylic acid instead of sulfur. Designed as a wash-off mask (10 min) rather than an overnight spot treatment. Different mechanism but addresses similar concerns.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Kate Somerville EradiKate
De La Cruz 10% Sulfur Ointment
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. No refrigeration needed. Keep cap tightly closed to prevent drying out.
Squeeze tube with precision tip for targeted spot application. Fun, colorful design with controlled dispensing.
Yes — well under 100ml/3.4oz TSA limit. Compact tube fits easily in any travel bag or toiletry kit.
Frequently asked questions
FAQUse with caution. Pimple Paste contains Willow Bark Extract (a natural source of salicin, which is related to salicylic acid) and Camphor Bark Oil. While these are present in smaller amounts than prescription-strength salicylic acid, most dermatologists recommend avoiding salicylate-containing products during pregnancy and breastfeeding as a precaution. Always consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist before using this product during pregnancy or while nursing.
Yes. Pimple Paste is fungal acne safe. The formula is free from ferments, fatty acids, esters, polysorbates, and other ingredients known to feed malassezia yeast. The sulfur and zinc in the formula can actually help combat fungal overgrowth, making this a good option for those dealing with fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis).
Yes, but with care. Since Pimple Paste is a spot treatment applied only to blemishes, it can generally be layered into a routine that includes retinol, vitamin C, or AHA/BHA products. Apply your actives first across the full face, then use Pimple Paste as the last step only on active blemishes. If you experience excessive dryness or irritation around treated spots, alternate nights between your actives and the paste.
Pimple Paste works for all skin types but is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin. The clay and sulfur formula excels at absorbing excess oil and drying out blemishes. Those with dry or sensitive skin can still use it as a targeted spot treatment over moisturizer, but should avoid applying it to large areas to prevent over-drying.
Most users notice visible blemish size reduction after just one overnight application. In clinical testing, 100% of participants saw decreased blemish size overnight. For best results, use consistently for one week — 96% of participants saw a reduction in new blemishes after seven days of use. Post-blemish dark marks may take 2-4 weeks to fade with the azelaic acid and vitamin C in the formula.
Pimple Paste should be applied as the very last step in your nighttime skincare routine, after cleanser, toner, serum, and moisturizer. Apply it directly to active blemishes on top of your moisturizer. The paste forms a protective, transfer-proof layer that works overnight. Wash it off in the morning. You can also use it during the day, though the blue tint will be visible.
No. Pimple Paste has a comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5 (very low risk). The formula is built around clays (kaolin, bentonite) and sulfur, which are non-comedogenic ingredients that actually help absorb oil and unclog pores. There are no heavy oils, waxes, or pore-clogging ingredients in the formula. The brand also lists the product as non-comedogenic and dermatologist tested.
Pimple Paste has a Period After Opening (PAO) of approximately 12 months. Since a little goes a long way — you only need a small dab per blemish — the 0.5 oz tube typically lasts 2-4 months of regular use depending on breakout frequency. Store in a cool, dry place with the cap tightly closed to maintain freshness and prevent the paste from drying out in the tube.
Verdict: iNNBEAUTY PROJECT Pimple Paste is a standout overnight spot treatment that combines 8 proven botanicals in a clean, alcohol-free formula. Its transfer-proof texture, impressive clinical results (100% saw blemish reduction overnight), and ability to both treat active pimples and fade dark marks set it apart from classic drying lotions. The inclusion of azelaic acid derivative and vitamin C adds post-blemish care that competitors lack. The main trade-offs are the smaller tube size, visible blue color, and higher per-ounce cost compared to basic sulfur ointments. For anyone wanting an effective, clean-formula spot treatment that won't trash their pillowcase, Pimple Paste delivers real results.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.