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Transdermal Patches Explained: How Skin Patches Work

A different way to deliver a formula.

Quick answer

A transdermal patch is an adhesive patch placed on the skin that is designed to release its contents gradually through the skin over time. Patches typically have a backing layer, a reservoir or matrix that holds the formula, sometimes a rate-controlling membrane, an adhesive layer and a protective liner that is removed before use. Advantages include no pills to swallow, no need to time doses with meals and steady, gradual release. Limitations include possible skin irritation and the fact that only certain substances pass easily through the skin. To apply a patch safely, choose clean, dry, hair-free, unbroken skin, press firmly for about 30 seconds, rotate application sites, avoid heat such as heating pads over the patch, and remove it if redness or itching develops.

Key takeaways

Skin patches have become a popular way to deliver everything from medicines to wellness formulas. Here is how they work.

The layers of a patch

LayerJob
BackingProtects the patch from the outside
Reservoir or matrixHolds the formula
Membrane (some patches)Controls the release rate
AdhesiveKeeps the patch on the skin
LinerRemoved just before applying

Pros and cons

Advantages

No pills to swallow, nothing to time with meals, gradual release and an easy routine.

Limitations

Possible skin irritation, patches can loosen with sweat or water, and not every substance passes easily through the skin.

How to apply a patch

  1. Wash and dry the area; avoid lotions or oils
  2. Choose hair-free, unbroken skin
  3. Peel off the liner without touching the sticky side
  4. Press firmly for about 30 seconds
  5. Rotate to a different site next time
  6. Follow the package directions for how long to wear it

A men's wellness patch

P-Protect uses a premium transdermal system: a naturally formulated men's wellness patch and prostate health support formula, with 10 patches in each one-month pack.

Safety: remove a patch if you notice redness, itching, rash or swelling. Avoid heating pads or hot tubs over a patch. Tell your doctor about any patches you use, especially if you also use medicated patches or take medication.

Sources

  1. Prausnitz M.R., Langer R. – "Transdermal drug delivery," Nature Biotechnology, 2008.
  2. Wiedersberg S., Guy R.H. – "Transdermal drug delivery: 30+ years of war and still fighting!," Journal of Controlled Release, 2014.
  3. Cleveland Clinic – "Transdermal patches."

Common questions

How does a transdermal patch work?

It releases its contents gradually through the skin over time.

Where should I put a patch?

On clean, dry, hair-free and unbroken skin, rotating the site each time.

What if my skin gets irritated?

Remove the patch, and talk to your doctor if irritation continues.

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