The Indian startup scene has seen several brands rise and fall after appearing on Shark Tank India. One such brand that gained both funding and praise is Patch Up, a company specialising in stick-on supplements.
Founder Radhika Rajpal not only secured an investment of 50 lakhs from Shark Anupam Mittal but also earned high praise as “one of the best founders.” Her vision? To create a clean, hassle-free supplement brand for people who struggle with swallowing pills.
But the real question remains: Do stick-on supplements really work?
To answer this, we turn to Dr Narander Singhla, Lead Consultant – Internal Medicine at CK Birla Hospital, Delhi, who explains the science, benefits, and risks of transdermal nutrient delivery.
What are stick-on supplements?
Stick-on supplements, also called transdermal patches, are designed to deliver essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals through the skin. Unlike traditional pills or powders, these patches claim to bypass the digestive system, allowing direct absorption into the bloodstream, said Dr Singhla.
These patches have gained traction globally, but Patch Up is one of India’s first brands to introduce them. While more expensive than traditional supplements, they have intrigued consumers looking for convenient alternatives to oral supplements.
How do stick-on supplements work?
The transdermal delivery system allows active ingredients to pass through the skin layers and into the bloodstream. According to Dr Singhla, this method is believed to provide better absorption than oral supplements, which must first navigate the digestive system and liver metabolism.
🔹 Application – Users apply the patch to a clean, hair-free skin area.
🔹 Gradual Release – The patch slowly releases nutrients over several hours.
🔹 No Digestion Required – Bypassing the stomach may result in higher bioavailability (more effective absorption).
The brand’s range includes patches for Vitamin D, magnesium, weight loss, and other nutritional needs.
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While the idea sounds promising, scientific backing is still limited.
According to Dr Singhla, the effectiveness of transdermal patches depends on several factors, including:
✅ Molecular Size – Some nutrients, like nicotine or certain hormones, absorb well transdermally, but larger molecules (like Vitamin B12) may not penetrate the skin efficiently.
✅ Patch Quality – The effectiveness depends on the brand’s formulation and ingredient stability.
✅ User’s Skin Type – Skin thickness, hydration, and pH levels can influence absorption.
While some users report positive results, clinical studies on the long-term effectiveness of stick-on supplements are still lacking.
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Potential benefits and risks
Despite skepticism, these patches offer some advantages:
✔️ Convenience – No pills, no water—stick and go.
✔️ No Stomach Upset – Bypassing digestion may reduce nausea or gastric discomfort.
✔️ Steady Absorption – A slow release of nutrients throughout the day.
✔️ Great for Pill-Averse People – Ideal for those who struggle to swallow tablets.
Dr Singhla warns that stick-on supplements aren’t for everyone. Here’s what to watch out for:
⚠️ Skin Irritation – Some people may experience rashes or allergic reactions.
⚠️ Incomplete Absorption – Certain nutrients may not effectively penetrate the skin.
⚠️ Unregulated Market – Unlike prescription patches, many supplement patches lack strict regulatory approval.
⚠️ Possible Drug Interactions – If you’re on medication, nutrient absorption could interfere with drug effectiveness.
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Pro tip: Always consult a healthcare provider before using stick-on supplements, especially if you have existing health conditions.
For now, these patches may work as a convenient supplementing option, but they shouldn’t replace a balanced diet and professional medical advice. If you’re considering trying them, choose a trusted brand and consult a doctor first.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
