Improved patches and methods for delivering an active substance to the skin using the same

A patch for delivering a biologically active substance to the skin of a subject, the patch comprising:

• a substrate;
• a biologically active substance disposed on the substrate;
• a foam ring having a periphery, a first skin-facing surface and a first layer of adhesive disposed on the first skin-facing surface, the foam ring disposed beneath the substrate to form, when applied to a subject's skin, an occlusive or condensation chamber in which the biologically active substance is located;
• a breathable film disposed over the substrate and having an exterior surface, a second skin-facing surface opposed to the exterior surface, and a second layer of adhesive disposed on the second skin-facing surface;
• and
• a paper applicator removably disposed on the exterior surface of the breathable film, the paper applicator having an aperture with an interior edge, the paper applicator configured for applying the patch to a subject's skin,
• wherein the breathable film covers the substrate and the foam ring, the aperture of the paper applicator is continuous, around and concentric with the foam ring and the paper applicator has an opened notch to facilitate removal from the exterior surface of the breathable film.