A few moments where a hydrocolloid patch isn't the right move. On unsurfaced or under-the-skin bumps where there's no fluid at the top of the skin to absorb (a microcrystal patch like our Miracle Patch Microcrystal Spot Cover is made for that stage instead). On deep cystic or nodular acne, which sit too far below the surface for any topical patch to reach, those are dermatologist territory. On open, broken, or bleeding skin, since the patch traps moisture and can introduce issues. If you have an allergy to the adhesive ingredients, general precautions apply. And don't stack a patch over a freshly applied active like AHA, BHA, vitamin C, or retinol on the same spot, since combining can irritate.