What Your Acne Map Is Telling You

Is your back breaking out? You might need to get more sleep. Bumps on your neck? Try cutting out sugar and see what happens. Skin problems can tell you a lot about what’s going on inside your body. Similar to the ancient practice of face mapping, body mapping can help us understand why we’re breaking out and what to do about it.

There is no shame in having a couple of pimples (or a whole population of them) — but it’s also fair to want to look and feel our best, especially as we inch towards warmer weather and start planning out our skin-bearing spring and summer wardrobes.

The skin on our bodies is thicker than facial skin, so pimples can often be more stubborn — but you can actually be more aggressive with treatments.

Body acne, like all acne, requires a holistic approach and a little trial and error. The acne map above is a great place to start solving the mystery of your breakouts. We’re sharing a few insights on how to deal…

How To Deal With Body Acne

Neck | Breakouts in this area can be related to hormonal imbalance. If you’re breaking out here, pros recommend getting your hormones checked, especially if neck pimples are near or under the chin and jawline. You might also consider eating less refined sugar (which could be a trigger hormonal imbalance). Make sure your shampoo and conditioner are suitable for your skin type as many hair products leave a residue that can migrate down to the neck area and clog pores.

Shoulders | Clogged pores are the most likely cause of shoulder breakouts, although hormonal fluctuations can also contribute. The best ways to treat shoulder acne is to be sure you shower after exercising. Try exfoliating your skin with a gentle shower mitt and a non-toxic, non-irritating body wash.

Chest | Breakouts on your chest could indicate an imbalance in your liver, an allergic reaction or an imbalance in the gut. According to ancient Chinese wisdom, the stomach meridian is on the chest, so chest acne can also be related to poor diet or food sensitivities. Avoid eating too much spicy food and drink room temperature or warm beverages.

Arms | If you’re noticing acne on your arms, you could be experiencing a vitamin deficiency. Breakouts here could also be confused with allergic rashes. Those little bumps could also be caused by keratosis pilaris, a common condition related to a buildup of the protein keratin, which can plug a hair follicle. Take a look at your laundry detergent, lotion and body wash for irritating or pore-clogging ingredients.

Stomach | If you see a pimple-like bump on your stomach, it may be an ingrown hair or an irritation from tight clothes or rough fabrics. Consider switching to loser fitting clothes made with gentler, breathable materials like organic cotton and hemp.

The V | Breakouts in this area could be related to ingrown hairs, or it could indicate a hygiene issue. We don’t want to freak you out, but if you have acne down there it might be a symptom of an STD. If you’re unsure, get it checked out by a doctor to be safe.

Thighs | Allergies, ingrown hairs and generally sensitive skin could be to blame for acne on your thighs. Folliculitis, an inflammation of the hair follicles, is a common cause of pimples in this area. Try experimenting with a gentle exfoliating wash, and switch to lighter, looser pants for a few days and see it that helps.

Back | This is an area where body acne is fairly common. It could be related to hormonal fluctuations, or maybe it’s just your sweaty active lifestyle. If you’re active, make sure to shower right after you sweat and change into clean clothes that let your skin breathe. If you don’t have time to shower, keep wipes like these on hand to clear out your pores as best as you can. If that’s not working, try switching up your body wash for something cleaner and more gentle, and be sure to exfoliate a few times a week. Pores on your back are larger and more prone to clogging than pores on the face. Avoid fragrance, perfumes, and dyes. If you’re still not seeing improvement, some pros recommend cutting back on fried foods and getting more sleep.

Butt | The most likely cause of breakouts on your booty is clogged hair follicles — try using this gentle lactic acid Body Resurfacing Mask from True Botanicals a few times a week. Some pros believe that butt breakouts are linked to issues with digestion. Get in the habit of popping a probiotic before bed. Try to avoid iced drinks, especially early in the morning when you wake up and your body isn’t warm yet. Avoid sitting too long; get up every hour and walk around to improve blood and air circulation.

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How to Get Rid of Back Acne

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While back acne (a.k.a bacne) is totally normal, it may leave you feeling insecure from time to time. Back acne is usually caused by excess oil and dead skin cells that build up over time. It can also be caused by your daily habits. Luckily, with a few simple modifications to your daily routine, you can make those body pimples a thing of the past.

Here are a few tips on how to get rid of back acne:

Make over your morning routine

Your conditioner, your sunscreen (especially if you have sensitive skin), your body cream — can all clog pores, causing you to get zits on your back. Luckily, a few easy tweaks to your get-ready routine can help slash your chances of one popping up.

When washing and conditioning, flip your hair to the front and rinse forward to avoid leaving shampoo and conditioner residue on your back — and rinse your whole body thoroughly before stepping out of the shower. In summertime, it’s better to use lotions rather than creams because they have less oil content and rely more on water to hydrate the skin, so they’re less clogging. And when it’s time to apply sunscreen, choose one that is labeled “ultra-light” or “quick-dry” like La Roche Posay Anthelios 60 Ultra Light Sunscreen Fluid ($30, amazon. com).

Swap out your clothing

Certain types of clothing can trigger a breakout — and your workout clothes (plus the act of exercising) is a particularly perfect recipe. That’s because tight clothing can push oils or bacteria deeper into pores, and the friction from tight-fitting workout clothes like sports bras or leggings can further irritate hair follicles and cause red bumps. If you can, reach for breathable materials like cotton or moisture-wicking items. If you can’t change over your entire wardrobe, be sure to always shower after sweating. “After workouts or a sweaty activity you must shower,” says Tami Cassis M.D., assistant clinical professor of dermatology at The University of Louisville. “Running around afterward in sports bras or gym shirts is a big no-no.”

Choose the right cleanser

If pimply skin runs in your family, don’t be surprised if you get it, too — despite your best efforts to keep it at bay. But don’t worry, there are ways to get around your genes. Try using an over-the-counter salicylic acid or glycolic acid wash to prevent and cure blemishes — is a good pick. Washes have a tendency to be less irritating than leave-on medications, and because they are usually incorporated into your shower routine, they are more readily available, and therefore more regularly used. If these don’t cut it, a prescription-strength topical medication or oral antibiotic may be recommended by your derm.

Eat skin-friendly foods

What’s good for your heart is also good for your skin, so it may be time to put up your veggie game. Eat a well-balanced diet— any extreme or restrictive eating plan is not healthy for your overall body, so just consider cutting back on foods that may up your risk of developing acne, such as dairy, rather than eliminating it all together.

Give your back extra love

This may seem like a no brainer, but forgetting to wash or exfoliate your back is more common than you think. It’s not easy to reach or see, and it’s not particularly stinky, so who wants to waste their time playing twister in the shower? But the reality is that your back is one of the most acne-prone areas, so you need to give it just as much attention as you do your facial skin. Regularly clean and exfoliate your back to help keep the follicles clean and unclogged, making them less prone to pimples. Try a gentle exfoliating cleanser such as Dove Gentle Exfoliating Body Wash ($6, amazon.com), which helps to cleanse, hydrate, exfoliate, and even calm inflamed skin. If done on a daily basis this should help keep bacne at bay. People are also starting to treat acne with light devices, which are great, effective alternatives to traditional treatments; talk to a dermatologist about which product or in-office treatment might be right for you.

See a dermatologist

If you’ve tried all of the above and your bacne is still stubbornly sticking around, consider scheduling a consultation with a dermatologist. They may be able to offer personalized advice to keep things under control or suggest oral or topical prescription medications that may just do the trick.

Alyssa Jung
Senior Editor
Alyssa is a senior editor for the Hearst Lifestyle Group Health Newsroom, supporting Prevention, Good Housekeeping, and Woman’s Day. 

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7 Unexpected Things Having Acne On Your Back Says About Your Health Habits

Facial acne happens to almost everyone, and is finally getting it’s due as nothing to be ashamed of. But acne on your back — which is often more serious, and sometimes painful — hasn’t exactly gotten it’s time in the spotlight yet. And that’s not great, since bacne could be an indicator of how things are going with other aspects of your health. Luckily, dermatologists know the causes of back acne, and are here to help.

It helps to know that bacne is quite different than the acne that shows up on your face. “Acne is the consistent clogging of pores with dead skin, excess oil, and potentially dirt that gives bacteria the opportunity to grow,” Dr. David Greuner of NYC Surgical Associates tells Bustle. “The difference between acne on your back and acne on your face is that your back has larger pores, making it easier for them to be clogged. This is also the reason why pimples that develop on your back are sometimes larger in comparison to ones on your face. Using specific bacne products can help combat its potential aggressive behavior.” So if you’re feeling like what’s showing up on your back is way trickier than what you’ve encountered on your face, it’s not in your head.

Plus, the location doesn’t help much either. “Because it’s on your back you may not notice it until it’s gotten angry and uncomfortable,” dermatologist dermatologist Dr. Suzanne Friedler tells Bustle. But even so, figuring out the cause of this bacne is important. It can help prevent further breakouts, of course, but it can also keep you more aware of how your health is doing, in general.

Here are seven unexpected things having bacne might say about your health, according to experts.

1

Skin Issues May Be In Your Genes

Ashley Batz/Bustle

If you have bacne, it might be a sign that you’re genetically predisposed to skin problems. Beginning to figure this out can help you plan out skincare and lifestyle changes to keep your skin healthier.

“Sometimes, acne is not your fault since it is genetic, and people can be more prone to having certain activities cause breakouts,” Dr. Greuner says. You’ll have to work with your dermatologist to figure out whether your diet or skincare routine have any potential triggers, but at least you’ll know that you’re not doing anything “wrong” to cause this skin issue. Plus, the club of people who’ve been outspoken about dealing with acne recently has been pretty star-studded. If Lili Reinhardt can stand up to acne-shamers, maybe you can too. So wear that backless top.

2

Tight Clothing Could Be Causing Skin Issues

Ashley Batz/Bustle

Tight clothing can cause all sorts of health problems, from UTIs to — you guessed it — bacne. “Tight clothing can also hurt your chances of achieving clear skin as it can irritate the surface and makes it difficult for the skin to breathe, therefore promoting clogging.” Dr. Greuner says.

Taking inventory of what you’ve been wearing when you get breakouts can help you better understand your health. If you stop wearing tight tops for a week, and your bacne subsides, it is a good indicator that your bacne isn’t a sign of a more serious underlying problem.

And if you absolutely don’t want to give up on your favorite looks, remember that breathability is key. “[Fabrics that don’t breathe] prevent evaporation of sweat and prevent air from getting to the area encouraging the bacteria to further grow,” Dr. Susan Bard, MD of Manhattan Dermatology Specialists tells Bustle. Once you’ve adjusted your wardrobe choices, you can more properly assess how your skin is doing in general.

3

You May Not Be Washing Your Sheets Enough

You spend a lot of your life in bed. So it’s worth it to do what you can to make it a sanctuary, not a health hazard. Unfortunately though, bacne often starts between the sheets.

“Your bed sheets can be a base for bacteria, and can also have dirt and oil stick to them over time, so this makes washing your sheets that much more important,” Dr. Greuner says. If you find that cleaning your sheets, or getting a new set, has cleared up your back, you might also find that other health problems clear up, too. Everything from eczema, to infections, to allergies can clear up when you make this change.

4

You Might Be Staying In Work Out Clothes Too Long

Andrew Zaeh for Bustle

It’s very tempting to go from barre class straight to brunch. But maybe schedule an extra thirty minutes for a shower and outfit change.

“Staying too long in sweaty clothes allows time for bacteria to multiply on the skin … Make sure you get out of sweaty clothes quickly,” Dr. Friedler says. Your sweaty clothes could also be causing skin rashes, yeast infections, and a weakened immune system, so it really is of the utmost importance for your health to make this change.

5

It Could Be Your Hormones

Ashley Batz/Bustle

Hormones, whether naturally occurring or supplemented by medication, are a major culprit of acne all over. Your back, unfortunately, is not immune. So if you have stubborn back acne that doesn’t change with sheets being washed or clothes being changed, you might need to see a doctor about hormone levels.

“If someone is on anabolic steroids or testosterone supplements, that can increase their skin’s oil production and lead to severe breakouts on the back, chest, and on the face. Hormonal imbalances such as seen with polycystic ovaries can also affect the skin in the same way,” Dr. Friedler says. Hormone issues are incredibly common, so don’t freak out just yet. Your dermatologist will likely be able to help find you a treatment that works.

6

It May Be Your Meds

Andrew Zaeh for Bustle

Like a lot of health problems, your medicines (or supplements) could be interacting with your body to cause this issue. And bacne could be a sign that your body isn’t loving what you’re putting into it.

“Often times [bacne] can be triggered by certain medication or supplements (ie. muscle bulking protein powders)” Dr. Bard says. So, like always, when you go to the doctor, it’s important to mention all medications and supplements you take — not just the prescribed ones. A simple switch of brands or ingredients might even clear up your bacne.

7

It Could Be Friction’s Fault

Andrew Zaeh for Bustle

There’s a thing called “acne mechanica” that could be causing your bacne woes, family doctor and former ER doctor Daliah Wachs, M. D., tells Bustle. And, no, it’s not acne for robots.

“Acne mechanica [is] mechanical rubbing … that can induce gland stimulation, leading to acne,” Dr. Wachs says. This means that backpacks, sports gear, and other accessories, could be causing you all this trouble. If you think this is the culprit, it could be a sign that your body is asking you to switch up your workout routines, or minimize daily heavy-lifting. You can work with your dermatologist to find a change-up that works best for you.

In general, bacne is pretty preventable and treatable, and doesn’t have to mean something serious is going on with your overall health. The first step is to try to treat it with some simple store-bought elixirs. “Using an antibacterial soap, benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid wash are all great for preventing or treating bacne,” Dr. Friedler says. If your bacne doesn’t respond to typical treatments, or is particularly bothersome, it’s time to see a dermatologist. That’s when your bacne might be indicating something more. It’s just another little way our bodies ask us for help.

How to get rid of it and how to prevent it

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Acne is the most common skin condition in the United States. It can cause blackheads, whiteheads, and pus-filled spots.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, 40-50 million Americans have acne at any one time.

Acne tends to start at puberty, and most people experience it during this time before it resolves itself in the late teens or early 20s. For some people, however, it can persist into their late 20s and even 30s.

Its severity can vary from just a few spots to larger clusters of affected areas. As well as on the back, acne can appear on the face, neck, and chest. If acne is left untreated, dark spots and permanent scars can appear on the skin as it clears.

Fast facts on back acne

• Oily skin, blackheads, whiteheads, red spots, yellow pus-filled pimples, and scars are all characteristic of acne on the back.
• People who are prone to acne have oil-producing glands that are particularly sensitive to some hormones.
• There are many treatments for acne including topical treatments and medication.
• When it comes to mild acne, continuing to use over-the-counter medications after the original problem has cleared up will help to avoid breakouts.

There are several treatment options available to help people get rid of acne on their back.

Topical creams

Back acne can affect anyone, and is the most common skin condition in the United States.

Most treatments involve applying topical medications directly to the skin. These are usually the first choice to treat cases of mild to moderate acne.

For people with just a few spots, over-the-counter medications will often deal with the problem. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using a product that contains benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid.

A range of products are available for purchase online, including products containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid.

People should apply the medication to the whole affected part of the back, not just the spots, usually once or twice a day. This kind of treatment will usually result in clear skin within 4-8 weeks.

Pills

A doctor or healthcare provider may prescribe oral medication if a person has severe acne, including acne cysts and nodules. Treatment may include:

• Antibiotics to kill bacteria and reduce inflammation: sometimes, doctors will prescribe these alongside a topical medication. A person may need to take them for 2 to 6 months.
• Birth control pills and other medicines that impact hormones: these can reduce the amount of oil the skin produces but can take 3 to 4 months to take effect. This option, which interrupts ovulation, may not be suitable for young teenage girls.
• Isotretinoin: this is a powerful medication that can benefit people for up to 2 years after treatment. It does, however, have the potential to cause side effects – it can harm unborn babies, meaning it is not suitable for women who plan to get pregnant. Before prescribing isotretinoin, doctors may order blood tests and continue to monitor people while they use it.

With some medications, notably isotretinoin, there are also concerns that it can cause depression and suicidal feelings. Isotretinoin can also result in dry skin, particularly around the lips, so a lip moisturizer is recommended.

Also, isotretinoin may cause joint pain issues secondary to the drying and decreased lubrication of the joints.

Skin procedures

Laser and other light therapies can reduce the levels of p.acnes on the skin, but there is limited evidence to support the effectiveness of this approach. Dermatologists sometimes offer a chemical peel to treat blackheads and papules.

Drainage and extraction is a procedure to remove large acne cysts if they do not respond to medication. It will help ease the pain but will possibly leave a scar.

Showering after sweating, and using gentle cleansers applied with the fingertips can help to reduce the risk of acne breakouts on the back.

Tight-fitting exercise clothing that traps sweat next to skin on the back and blocks pores may contribute to outbreaks. People should consider wearing loose-fitting clothes, especially during a heavy gym session.

Other tips for reducing the risk of back acne breakouts are:

• washing after sweating
• using fingertips to apply a gentle, non-abrasive cleanser
• avoiding products that irritate your skin
• not scrubbing the affected areas
• not popping, picking, or squeezing spots because this may lead to them spreading and scarring
• staying out of the sun and avoiding tanning beds because damaged skin is more prone to acne

Sometimes, large tender cysts can develop on the back. These may either burst or heal up without rupturing. Skin affected by acne may be tender to the touch, feel hot, or be painful.

The severity of back acne can vary. Grade 1, or mild acne, usually consist of a few blemishes and may include whiteheads, blackheads, and pimples. Grade 4 acne is severe and is characterized by many spots or cysts.

When levels of hormones in the blood rise, the glands produce an excess of oil. At the same time, dead skin cells that are not shed properly clog up the follicles. The combination of these processes leads to a build-up of oil and results in whiteheads and blackheads.

Everyone has the bacteria Propionibacterium acnes living on their skin, and for many, it does not cause any problems. But the buildup of oil on the skin experienced by people prone to acne creates the perfect environment for the bacteria to multiply. This can lead to inflammation and the formation of pus-filled or red spots.

According to the British Association of Dermatologists, there is little evidence that any particular foods, such as chocolate or fast foods, can cause acne.

The American Academy of Dermatologists, however, points to studies showing that certain carbohydrates, including white bread and potato chips, increase blood sugar levels, which is a potential trigger for acne.

Most people experience acne during adolescence, and for many, it will resolve itself. There some treatments available that will not cure acne but will minimize outbreaks.

Without treatment, acne can cause permanent scarring, low self-esteem, depression, and anxiety.

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What is your body acne telling you?

There has been a lot of discussion on this blog about how face mapping can reveal underlying health problems through the location of acne on various “zones” that correspond to our internal organs. But this ancient science doesn’t end there: just as face mapping can tell what your facial pimples mean, mapping where you get pimples on the rest of your body can also help pinpoint (and thereby treat) internal imbalances that might be messing up your system.

So, on popular demand, I have gone back to the drawing board – consisting of ancient Chinese and Ayurvedic texts, as interpreted by 21st century’s cutting edge doctors – and distilled that knowledge into this easy-to-interpret “body map” of acne zones. Put simply, think of your body as a map and blemishes as X’s on that landscape. Spots in different zones correspond to different problems. Interesting, right? Try it out: here is how to decode breakouts in the basic body areas.

Zone 1: Hormones

Like the jaw, acne on the neck might indicate that your adrenal glands (hormones) are in overdrive. Other options: stress or excessive sugar intake. That’s if you are not wearing shirts with tight collars or have greasy hair that constantly touches the skin in this area.

Zone 2 & 3: Stress

Shoulder acne could mean that you are overstressed, sensitive and vulnerable. Another alternative? Check whether your handbag strap is causing friction against the skin.

Zone 4: Digestive System

Are you wearing clothes that are not breathable – like polyester or nylon? Have you ruled out fungal infections (especially if you have little whiteheads on the chest that don’t respond to acne treatments) and allergies? If all these are clear, acne on the chest can point towards digestive troubles, like a poor diet, bad eating habits, having excessively spicy food or drinking too many cold beverages on a regular basis.

Zone 5 & 6: Vitamin Levels

Skin is coarser on the arms so you can get keratosis pilaris in this area. This appears as small spots that give skin a rough, goose-bumpy appearance. Keratosis pilaris is caused by poor circulation and overproduction of dead cells at the hair follicle. Try to treat it with regular exfoliation and moisturizers containing salicylic acid. If the problem persists despite this, it could be a sign of how efficiently your body is receiving and utilising vitamins from your diet.

Zone 7: Blood Sugar Levels

There are very few oil glands in this area, making stomach acne a rarer complaint.  When zits do crop up here, it’s usually because of one of these reasons: tight fitting clothes or high blood sugar.

Zone 8: Hygiene or STDs

Utterly painful and pretty difficult to clear up because of this area’s high moistness factor, crotch or pelvic acne could crop up because of ingrown hairs from waxing or shaving. Then again, poor personal hygiene might play a role. More worryingly though, it could be warts or the symptom of an STD (especially if the spots itch, ooze or don’t show any signs of improvement after 3-4 days).

Zone 9 & 10: Skin Sensitivities or Allergies

Acne on the thighs and upper legs often comes up as a reaction to body lotions, shower gels, laundry detergent, fabric softener or dryer sheets. On the lower legs, there is the added factor of ingrown hair post-shaving or waxing. It’s best treated with a body wash that has salicylic acid (BHA) or glycolic acid (AHA) and a light, non-comedogenic moisturizer.

Zone 11 & 12: Nervous and Digestive Systems

This is the most common body area for acne and frequent reasons include allergies, excessive sweating, not showering after exercise, friction from athletic gear, clothes that are too tight and not breathable, backpack straps, irritation because of hair or body care products, reaction to laundry detergent, fabric softener or dryer sheets. If you have ruled out all these, evaluate whether your diet is loaded with fried and high calorie foods or you aren’t getting enough sleep… both could be contributing elements.

Zone 13 & 14: Digestive System

There are usually three reasons for acne to show up on the buttocks: underwear that’s dirty, not breathable or too tight; excessively dry skin; and poor diet or digestion, with too many cold drinks and too much spicy food. So if the zits don’t subside despite moisturizing your skin, wearing loose cotton clothes and keeping everything clean, start evaluating your dietary habits.

So the next time you break out on the back or shoulders, look to your body map: your skin is probably trying to communicate on behalf of the internal organs. However, do remember that, as with all medical issues, it is always best to see your doctor or dermotologist for a proper prognosis. I am not a doctor or a medical practitioner and this is just a general guide to head you off in the right investigative direction – just becuase you break out on the stomach doesn’t always mean you have high blood sugar!

Back Acne – What It Is, Why It Happens And How To Get Rid Of It

Bacne (code word for back acne), be gone.

Back acne can be really distressing – not only can it affect your confidence levels, meaning you’re reluctant to wear certain things in summer, but it can also be quite sore.

It’s totally understandable if having it makes you feel self conscious and, as a result, you want to get rid of it.

We caught up with a skin expert, Consultant Dermatologist Dr Justine Kluk, to find out everything you need to know about managing acne on the back.

What causes back acne?

‘The reasons for acne appearing on our backs are similar to the reasons acne appears elsewhere,’ explains Dr Kluk. ‘Firstly, excess sebum production; sebum is the natural oil produced by the sebaceous glands in our skin. These glands are particularly sensitive to hormones known as androgens, even at normal levels.

‘Secondly, a build-up of dead skin cells. These dead skin cells mix with the sebum and get trapped in our pores. The skin on our backs is extremely thick, so the potential for blocked pores is very high.

‘Thirdly, bacteria. In those who are prone to spots, the accumulation of oil and dead skin cells in our pores creates an ideal environment for a particular bacteria called Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) to thrive. Exercise and heat are good examples of this because the bacteria that cause acne thrive in sweaty, moist conditions.

‘Inappropriate skin or hair care products can also contribute if left in contact with the skin of the upper back for extended periods.’

Follow these tips and you’ll be able to work the backless trend in no time

Back acne treatments

It might feel like having back acne is largely out of your hands, but there are several things you can try to help take back control of your skin in terms of acne treatments.

Below, Dr Kluk explains five lifestyle changes you can make to help manage bacne.

Shower gel

‘Cleanse your skin thoroughly in the shower every day. Use a body wash containing ingredients such as salicylic acid, glycolic acid and lactic acid to prevent dead skin cells from building up and blocking your pores.

‘Using a special shower gel that contains alpha or beta hydroxy acid can help reduce bacne as part of a treatment regime. I also like the BHA sprays and lotions that you can apply post-shower too.’

Exfoliate

‘If you get lots of under the skin spots or blackheads, using a scrub a couple of times a week in the shower may be effective. Be gentle and don’t rub your skin raw as this can increase inflammation.’

Use a body cream for back acne

‘Apply a moisturiser to soothe and repair your skin barrier, but make sure that any products you leave on your skin are labelled “non-comedogenic”, meaning that they won’t clog your pores.’

Shower after sweaty activities

‘The bacteria responsible for causing acne thrives on sweaty skin so it’s very important to remove your gym clothes and shower as soon as possible after a workout,’ Dr Kluk explains.

The same applies if your job involves manual labour and or working in a hot and sweaty environment, so try to shower as soon as you get in from work.

Avoid back acne scarring

‘Whatever you do, don’t pick, squeeze or scratch your spots. This can introduce infection and lead to scarring. Apply a benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid gel to spots instead. I like Medik8’s Blemish SOS Gel (£19 | Lookfantastic) with azelaic and salicylic acid, or Acnecide Benzoyl Peroxide 5% Gel (£10.49, Boots).’

What happens if this doesn’t help?

‘If you’ve tried all of the at-home self care tips and skincare products and you are still struggling to get on top of your back breakouts, or are aware of developing cysts, nodules, post-inflammatory pigmentation or scars, a consultant dermatologist can talk you through the various prescription treatment options to bring your acne under control definitively.’

Body and Back Acne Basics, Causes, and Treatment

Blackheads and pimples don’t only appear on the face. There are plenty of other places those breakouts can pop up. The chest, neck, shoulders and upper arms, and even the butt are all common places to get pimples. Back acne is so common it even has its own name: bacne.

If you’re dealing with back and body acne, know that it’s completely normal and you’ve got plenty of company. Body acne can happen to anyone, both teens and adults.

Verywell / Joshua Seong

Causes

Body acne is caused by the same factors that trigger facial acne, namely overactive oil glands, excess dead skin cells, and a proliferation of acne-causing bacteria.

Here’s how acne pimples develop: When oil and dead skin cells become trapped within the follicle, or what we commonly call the pore, it can create a blockage. This blockage becomes a blackhead and can progress to an inflamed pimple if bacteria invade.

Body acne is generally confined to the back and upper half of the body, as opposed to your legs.

Like the face, the upper half of the body has many sebaceous glands, so the follicles are more likely to become plugged with excess sebum and dead skin cells.

Acne Mechanica

Certain articles of clothing, sports equipment, and other gear may be triggering your body breakouts. Rubbing or pressure on the skin, combined with heat and/or sweat, can irritate and inflame follicles and cause a specific type of acne called acne mechanica.

If at all possible, try to avoid sources of friction while you’re trying to heal body acne. These include tight-fitting clothing, too-snug collars, backpacks, purse straps, and athletic pads or gear. Students may want to carry their books in a handheld bag instead of wearing a heavy backpack.

Sweat can also irritate body acne. To minimize irritation, shower as soon as possible after exercising. Don’t aggressively scrub the skin, though. Remember, you want to avoid friction. A thorough, but gentle cleansing—preferably with a salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide wash—is better than a vigorous scrubbing.

Treatment

Good daily care for the skin on your body is a good backbone for your acne treatment routine. Finding a treatment that works can seem frustrating, especially after you’ve tried several over-the-counter (OTC) treatments with little improvement.

Unless your breakouts are very mild, you’ll need a prescription treatment to get good clearing. While a trip to your doctor or dermatologist may seem like a hassle, in the long run, you’ll save yourself time and money. You won’t be buying OTC products that won’t work for you and you’ll be happier with the results you get.

Coping

If body acne doesn’t bother you all that much, that’s great. But if it does bother you, know you’re not alone. Many people say they feel embarrassed or ashamed of their body acne, and take great pains to cover affected areas.

You may choose clothing that reveals as little of the breakouts as possible, avoiding tank tops or sleeveless shirts and deep necklines. You might even consider quitting recreational sports or not participate in certain activities because of breakout embarrassment. It’s hard to enjoy yourself at the pool if you’re feeling self-conscious about baring your skin in a swimsuit.

Body acne can be especially hard if you’re a teen. Undressing in locker rooms or choosing a prom dress can be frustrating and can affect your self-confidence.

But all of these feelings are completely normal. You’re not being vain. Acknowledge these feelings; don’t feel like you have to justify them or talk yourself out of them. Then, start on treatment for body acne to get those breakouts under control.

How to get rid of acne on the back: causes and treatment

The acne that appears on the back is different from the one that pops up on the face. The reason for these problems is the same: the pores are clogged with sebum, which leads to the growth of bacteria. Well, or you are too nervous, and the body reacts to stress in this way. But you need to treat acne on the back a little differently, so do not rush to get creams and face masks.

To find a solution to this problem, we talked to dermatologists who gave us some obvious (and not so) personal care tips.And most importantly, they told you what tools and accessories will save you from these unpleasant guests on your back.

Buy special shower products

Try products with benzoyl peroxide

Almost all dermatologists advised us to get cosmetics with this component. You can choose from both shower gel and soap. Benzoyl peroxide kills bacteria, thereby stopping inflammation and acne. But be careful, this ingredient can stain your clothes and towel.Therefore, you need to thoroughly wash off such cosmetics from the body.

An anti-dandruff shampoo with zinc will also work for you.

Dr. Debbie Elder believes acne is caused by the dandruff fungus Pityrosporum. Therefore, in order to get rid of this microorganism, you need to use special cosmetics with zinc for 10 days, and then wash with this product a couple of times a week.

Finally buy a massage brush

It is with this accessory, according to Dr. Nancy Samolitis, that you can perfectly cleanse the skin from sweat and keratinized scales, thereby preventing the growth of bacteria.

Make a back mask

According to dermatologist Papri Sarkar, you will need a benzoyl peroxide-based product for this. Apply the product on your back and let it sit for 5-10 minutes. This will kill bacteria and dry out pimples.

Try peeling

This product should only be used as a last resort. You can do the procedure both in the salon and at home (in this case, you will need the product itself and a sponge for applying cosmetics).

Start monitoring your diet

Eat anti-inflammatory foods

Dr. Mariana Atanasovski recommends adding more fish, tomatoes, green vegetables and herbs to your diet to reduce the risk of acne.

Reduce the amount of sugar

But dermatologist Sarah Greer reminds you to limit the amount of simple carbohydrates. But omega-3 foods should be eaten more often: look for this element in avocados, salmon and walnuts.

Maintain good hygiene

Change clothes, bed linen and towels frequently

Dr. Cavita Mariwalla says dirty and sweaty fabrics are a favorite spot for bacteria. Therefore, do not be lazy and wash your clothes, towels and bed linen regularly.

Take a shower after active work

Frequent water treatments can help reduce the risk of acne. If sweat and dirt are not washed off, such as after exercise, says dermatologist Hilary S.Reich, then the pores will become clogged with sebum and become inflamed.

Carry sweat wipes with you:

Dr. Caroline Chang suggests that if you don’t have time to shower, you can use wipes. But only after that do not forget to wash if possible.

Maintain hygiene even in the gym

Wear a uniform made of sweat-wicking fabrics

Dr. Brooke Jackson recommends choosing tees and shorts made from these synthetic materials, as they cool the body and reduce the amount of sweat, unlike cotton models that retain moisture.

Avoid tight clothes

According to dermatologist John Trinidad, compression and slimming sportswear is too tight on the skin, leading to clogged pores and ingrown hairs. Therefore, it is better to choose the shape of a free or slightly fitted cut.

Get rid of whey protein

Products based on this component, according to Dr. Allison Arthur, can cause inflammation on the skin. It is best to replace these bars and powders with analogs from other types of protein.

Do not take steroids

Skin specialist Holly Hanson warns that these substances not only increase aggression but also cause scarring acne.

Contact a dermatologist

We recommend starting treatment with a visit to a specialist. He will explain to you what is the reason for the appearance of acne, and also prescribe the necessary remedies: it can be medical creams, and antibiotics, and hormonal drugs.You may need to undergo peeling or laser therapy. The main thing is not to delay visiting a dermatologist, because a small inflammation can hide a serious problem.

Originally posted on US GQ.

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We are too shy How to get rid of our butt for acne on the back?

1.The testosterone-acne relationship is inherited. We genetically inherit hormones and skin reactions.

2. Here we have already dwelled on the causes of acne related to nutrition.

3. Premenstrual acne. Since an increase in the level of steroid hormones is also observed in the last phase of the menstrual cycle, about 70% of women associate the appearance of acne with menstruation. One or two pimples before menstruation are observed even by girls who do not suffer from rashes.

4. “Hormonal” acne. High testosterone, acne and acne at age 18 are normal. But acne after 30 years is a serious reason to examine your health in detail. As a rule, their appearance is associated with a violation of the production of sex hormones, which can be corrected after consulting an endocrinologist.

5. Hyperkeratosis – an increase in the upper, stratum corneum, layer of the skin – is also the cause of acne. Lack of vitamin A, occupational intoxication, prolonged pressure or friction of the skin, exposure to the skin of oil products in the composition of the funds are the main causes of hyperkeratosis, and this, in turn, also becomes a prerequisite for the appearance of acne.

Lifehack : frequent change of bed linen and underwear, as well as the choice of clothes made from natural fabrics: cotton and its derivatives, helps a lot with acne on the back.

6. Comedogenic cosmetics. Acne and makeup are often intertwined. Look at your creams, lotions, sunscreens, and even shampoos.

Life hack: try not to let shampoo and balm run down your back while washing your hair – very often they clog pores and cause inflammation.If you haven’t thought about it before, then the habit of rinsing the shampoo in the shower with your head down can help get rid of back acne drastically quickly.

7. Heat and humid climate are external causes of acne. If you have suffered from teenage acne, you need to know that the humid tropics during hot periods can also cause acne and exacerbate long-standing acne.

8. Another non-obvious reason is the use of oils during a massage session, they also provoke the appearance of inflammatory elements.The oil must be thoroughly washed off or eliminated in principle.

9. A similar situation with sunscreens, however, their exclusion is not a safe solution. After using products with SPF, do not forget about high-quality skin cleansing.

Acne on the back. Obvious Causes

Back acne: why do they occur?

Acne on the back apart from the face – are rare enough.

Very often, classic acne is accompanied by rashes on the cheeks, chin, chest, shoulders, back and, of course, this is an indicator of the severity.

This tells the doctor what drugs should be prescribed. As a rule, serious drugs are prescribed, and this is necessary in order to cure all this.

Of course, I would be glad to write to you in this article that I know some kind of super magic remedy for such acne. But, in fact, the help of a doctor is needed here.

Question: Why can rashes occur? These are the classic causes of acne, when it is genetics (heredity) + nutrition + hormones. But there are several more reasons.

Such rashes are very common on the back of young guys and girls who work out in the gym, who consume protein shakes, protein bars.

Because whey protein can trigger acne. Very often, men who are engaged in strength training and bodybuilding take steroids, most often they give themselves injections and this is also the reason for the occurrence of such rashes.

Some medications prescribed by your doctor can also cause these rashes.

And if you go for a massage and you have never had rashes before, but suddenly they have appeared. And you understand that they give you a massage with oil or some kind of fatty cream. You have a clear connection that the massage has begun two or three procedures and the rash has begun – you definitely need to think about what the cause may be the massage. It is necessary to stop it for a while, or change the massage agent.

Patients with back rashes very often come to me, including other doctors referring them to solve this problem.

We carry out examination, examination of the patient, find the cause and prescribe treatment.

I can tell you for sure that if you have a desire, then we will definitely solve this problem.

90,000 reasons for the appearance and methods of treatment in the MEDSI clinic in St. Petersburg

Contents

Acne disease (acne, pimples) is skin changes associated with inflammation and disruption of the sebaceous glands. Acne most often occurs on the face, as well as the upper back, chest, where there are most of the sebaceous glands (the so-called seborrheic zones).

There are many pores on the surface of the skin. These are the mouths of the hair follicles – the sheaths that surround the hair of the skin. The ducts of the sebaceous glands located under the skin open into the follicles. The figures below show the structure of a typical sebaceous gland.

The structure of the hair follicle: the mouth of the hair follicle (pore), opening to the surface of the skin, sebaceous gland. The secretion of the sebaceous gland envelops the hair and comes out to the surface of the skin.

Causes of acne (pimples, blackheads and acne)

Acne is a complex disorder of hair follicles and sebaceous glands.When the follicles of the sebaceous hair ducts are clogged with a “plug” from a mixture of sebum and dead skin scales, acne develops (another name is comedones).

If the follicles are open, the plugs look like blackheads on the face and are called open comedones.

Comedones are also closed, (do not communicate with the surface of the skin). These comedones are called whiteheads, or whiteheads.

The production of sebum under the plug of the closed sebaceous-hair duct continues and is an ideal breeding ground for bacteria (propionic acne bacteria), which usually live peacefully and quietly in the sebaceous glands.The rapid growth of the bacterial population leads to the development of inflammation, which can manifest itself on the skin from small pimples to huge purulent pimples.

Numerous studies show that overactive sebaceous glands are the root cause of acne.

What leads to this?

The most common cause of acne is naturally age-related changes in hormonal balance (“hormonal surge”). Teenage acne is caused by steroid hormones, the main of which are androgens, male sex hormones that are produced not only in young people, but also in girls.Androgen levels rise sharply during puberty. Under their action, in the course of complex chemical reactions in the skin, there is a sharp increase in the number of sebocytes – secretory cells of the sebaceous gland. In fact, the number of “workers” in the sebum factory is increasing.

By provoking acne in adolescents, hormones not only increase the amount of sebum, but also change its composition, making it viscous and dense. Usually sebum is liquid and acne problems do not occur even with problematic oily skin.

This is how plugs form in the ducts of the hair follicles. These are the reasons for the formation of acne. First, microcomedones are formed, of which open and closed comedones are formed. Comedone plugs block the outlet of fat and waste products of the sebaceous glands.

Having received such an excess of food, the propionic acne bacteria (Propionibacterium acnes) begin to proliferate. These bacteria always live in the mouths of hair follicles and sebaceous glands. Normally, they do not manifest themselves in any way and only in isolated cases can they cause acne and inflammation.

The waste products of these bacteria are highly irritating when in contact with surrounding tissues. This is how inflammation develops. An ever-expanding hair follicle can rupture and form ulcers.

There are four factors, the combined action of which are the causes of acne:

• Hyperandrogenemia stimulates the sebaceous glands
• Follicular hyperkeratosis. The outer layer of human skin is called the stratum corneum.The constant renewal of the skin is precisely due to the sloughing of the keratinized, dead skin plates of this layer. A similar process takes place in hair follicles
• Follicular hyperkeratosis is an overdevelopment of the stratum corneum of the follicles, which is the cause of the appearance of acne, since the formation of a comedone plug requires not only sebum, but also desquamated skin scales
• Excessive fat secretion by the sebaceous glands and follicular hyperkeratosis lead to the accumulation of sebum in the sebaceous gland, leading to an increase in its volume, as a result of which aseptic (bacteria-free) inflammation begins in the gland
• Reproduction of Propionibacterium acnes, propionic bacteria acne.It is worth noting that acne bacteria live in the mouth of the sebaceous glands and in absolutely healthy people, along with such representatives of the skin microflora as Propionibacterium granulosum, Staphylococcus epidermidis bacteria, Malassezia fungi and tiny Demodex mites (Demodex). All these “living creatures” are extremely rare causes of acne in healthy people. But when the sebaceous gland is clogged with a horny plug and overproduction of sebum, favorable conditions are created for the reproduction of all this “normal” microflora and a purulent pimple appears

What are the internal causes of acne?

Testosterone Interrelation – Acne is inherited.We genetically inherit hormones and skin reactions. Therefore, the main cause of acne at the age of 18 is also called a hereditary factor.

The likelihood of teenage pimples is higher in children of parents who have or are suffering from acne. And you should expect the development of a serious form of teenage acne if both parents suffered from the problem.

Of course, other causes of acne also contribute to the answer to the question of why acne occurs.

Premenstrual acne

Since an increase in the level of steroid hormones is also observed in the last phase of the menstrual cycle, about 70% of women associate the appearance of acne with menstruation.One or two pimples before menstruation are observed even by women who do not suffer from acne. Those who are familiar with acne often notice purulent acne before menstruation – about a week before the start. Usually on the chin.

“Hormonal” acne

Increased testosterone, acne and acne at age 18 is normal. But acne after 30 years is a serious reason to examine your health in detail. As a rule, these are hormonal acne, which are associated with a violation of the production of sex hormones.

Gynecological diseases and acne in women are inextricably linked. They provoke hormonal disorders, for example, with polycystic ovaries.

Hormonal acne can also be triggered by some conditions associated with a sharp change in hormonal status. For example, acne during pregnancy or after an abortion.

Endocrine glands and acne are inextricably linked: diseases of the pituitary gland, adrenal glands, male and female genital organs affect acne. So, with hyperandrogenism (increased production of male hormones – androgens in women), acne is also a very common disease.Therefore, in the intrigues of the causes of acne in adults, it is not enough just to visit a dermatologist. Consultation of an endocrinologist is required, and for women – a gynecologist and a series of laboratory tests.

Hyperkeratosis as a cause of acne

Hyperkeratosis is an enlargement of the upper, stratum corneum, layer of the skin. Lack of vitamin A, occupational intoxication, prolonged pressure or friction of the skin, exposure to oil products (for example, lubricating oil) are the main causes of hyperkeratosis.Hyperkeratosis of the sebaceous glands also develops under the influence of hormones. It is he who is the cause of acne, and indirectly – the cause of acne.

Cosmetics and acne: comedogenic cosmetics as causes of acne

Acne and cosmetics are often linked. Look at your creams, lotions, powders, blush, sunscreens … Perhaps acne and makeup are related.

As a rule, the connection between cosmetics and acne is poorly understood, especially since the initial number of comedones and acne on the skin is negligible.

Acne-inducing cosmetics contain lanolin and its derivatives, squalene, sulfur, D and C red pigments (used to give a red hue and are extremely comedogenic). Mineral and vegetable oils are found in acne-aggravating cosmetics. Typically, for acne, cosmetics are used to mask pimples and acne, aggravating the course of acne. A vicious circle is formed.

Heat and humid climates – external causes of acne

If you suffered from teenage acne in your youth, you need to know that the humid tropics during the hot period can also cause acne and exacerbate long-standing acne in a very severe form.

Professional activity with toxic substances as an external cause of acne.

Many occupations still require exposure to various chemicals such as chlorine and petroleum products, which are the direct causes of acne.

Among other things, substances such as lubricating oils and tar lead to the development of hyperkeratosis of the skin and sebaceous glands – the immediate cause of acne and the cause of acne.

Are tanning beds and acne related? Can I sunbathe with acne? Does Ultraviolet Light Cure Acne?

Yes, ultraviolet light “heals” acne with some disinfecting ability, and tanning hides the cyanotic-red acne marks. However, high doses of UV light have the opposite effect. By weakening the immune system, enhancing the production of sebum and worsening the sloughing of the stratum corneum in the ducts of the sebaceous glands, UVA causes exacerbation of acne and an increase in the number of acne.It often happens that, returning from a vacation in hot countries, people suffering from acne get an exacerbation of the disease, although everything was fine during the vacation.

The same result can be obtained after visiting the solarium.

Squeezing pimples – the cause of new pimples

Many unhappy acne sufferers try to squeeze pimples – to open boils on their own to get rid of pimples and inflammation. It is impossible to squeeze acne and squeeze out acne, since this action itself is the cause of acne: this is how the infection gets into the deep layers of the epidermis and dermis, aggravating the inflammation, and the infection in the process of squeezing out acne is transmitted from the inflamed elements of acne to non-inflamed ones, in turn, infecting and inflaming them.

Frequent touching of the face leads to similar consequences. Of course, you can squeeze out a pimple if you aim to get a dozen new ones at once instead of one. To get rid of acne, contact a specialist. Dermatology and cosmetology already possess sufficiently effective and safe methods of acne treatment.

Pimples also appear on areas that are subject to friction (often on the neck under shirt collars in men), compression (for example, from a telephone receiver) or other mechanical stress, as well as on the buttocks.

Do not use a scrub or cleanse your face if there are inflamed acne elements on the skin.

Medicated acne

Sometimes, for the treatment of certain diseases, patients are prescribed oral glucocorticosteroid hormones. Against the background of such treatment, the appearance of acne is often observed.

Many women also experience moderate acne after stopping oral contraceptives. But they usually do not require serious treatment and go away on their own after 2-3 months.Proper skin care and short-term topical therapy are often sufficient to resolve this problem.

Excessive cleanliness is another reason why acne appears

Don’t be surprised, acne is not due to poor hygiene !!! Blackheads are oxidized sebum, not dirt.

The causes of acne are deep inside, and you can wash your face at least 20 times a day without seeing any positive changes. On the contrary, washing too often can itself cause acne, drying out the skin, making it less resistant to infection and thus exacerbating acne.

People suffering from this disease often experience psychological problems, problems of social adaptation.

Acne (acne) treatment

When treating acne, you can act on all links of pathogenesis:

• Elevated blood androgen levels in women can be corrected by prescribing contraceptives. This method takes place in patients with proven hyperandrogenism. This method of treatment is not acceptable in men 90 256
• Sebum overproduction can be affected by drugs that suppress it.These drugs include retinoids. They are available externally and for oral use
• Follicular hyperkeratosis can be affected by various exfoliating agents such as salicylic acid and retinoids
• The overly activated skin microflora, which provokes inflammation, can be influenced by antiseptics, which are now quite abundant in pharmacies, and antibacterial preparations. Antibiotics are available both in external forms and for oral administration, however, in the latter case, long-term administration is required, up to several months, and does not always lead to stable remission. The selection of therapy for the treatment of acne occurs individually, depending on the severity of the disease. With a mild severity of acne, an adequate selection of external therapeutic agents and care products is sufficient

With severe forms of acne, with moderate forms of acne resistant to external therapy, as well as with all forms, after which cicatricial changes are observed, truly effective is the purpose of ROACKUTAN. This is often the only chance to permanently get rid of acne, which is especially important for patients with psychological problems.

What is Roaccutane (Isotretinoin)?

This synthetic derivative of vitamin A, when taken orally, acts on all links in the pathogenesis of acne: inhibits the activity of the sebaceous glands (histologically confirmed reduction in their size) and reduces the formation of sebum, also inhibits the growth of bacteria, reduces hyperkeratosis of epithelial cells of the hair follicle and sebaceous gland, which lead to blockage of ducts and the formation of COMEDONS.

What happens when you take Roaccutane?

When the activity of the sebaceous glands is suppressed, the human skin literally becomes drier, more or less pronounced peeling appears, which can be successfully dealt with with the help of the selection of special external agents.After a few weeks of taking the drug, the number of acne eruptions is significantly reduced.

How long should you take Roaccutane?

The average course of treatment is 4-5 months. It depends on the total therapeutic dose of the drug, which the doctor calculates taking into account the patient’s body weight.

Are relapses of the disease possible after the end of the course of treatment?

The complete disappearance of acne can be achieved after 12-24 weeks of taking the drug, in 85% of cases the effect of taking the drug is persistent and the person gets rid of this problem forever. It is extremely rare to prescribe a shorter repeated course no earlier than 8 weeks after the previous one.

What are the contraindications: pregnancy and lactation, liver and kidney disease, hypervitaminosis A, marked violation of fat metabolism, hypersensitivity to the drug.

Side effects: dry skin, mucous membranes, lips, mucous membranes of the eyes, increased sensitivity of the skin to ultraviolet irradiation.

LABORATORY CAN DETECT: reversible increase in liver enzymes, increased cholesterol and triglycerides.

Roaccutane is categorically contraindicated in pregnancy and lactation due to its strong teratogenic effect. Roaccutane can only be prescribed by doctors. Before prescribing the drug, the doctor should familiarize himself in detail with the pyrinciple of the drug’s action, prescribe the necessary tests.

When taking the drug, you must strictly follow all recommendations and the required dosage, as well as monitor blood tests according to the scheme prescribed by your doctor.

To reduce the symptoms of discomfort due to dry skin and mucous membranes, it is necessary to use products specially selected by your doctor.Sun UV protection is also a prerequisite.

Women of childbearing age should take hormonal contraceptives and take a monthly pregnancy test 1 month before the start of treatment, the entire period of treatment, and 3 months after the end of the course of treatment.

Thus, the doctor will select the optimal, well-tolerated dosage of the drug for you with the most pronounced therapeutic effect on the skin.

90,000 How to get rid of acne on the back and décolleté, and why do they appear?

What to do if the back and chest are “sprinkled”, how to take care of problem skin in these sometimes hard-to-reach places and how to prevent recurrent rashes?

In summer, our bodies produce more sebum, and we sweat more and use sunscreen products.If you believe cosmetologists, then because of this mix, acne often appears on the skin in the summer. In this case, inflammation in the décolleté and on the back, as a rule, is slightly different from acne on the face. They are technically called folliculitis – when a hair follicle becomes inflamed. However, these inflammations look the same as acne on the face and can be treated with the same products and ingredients that you use on your face.

What can I do to stop or reduce a rash that has already appeared?
First, if you are back from the gym or beach, shower as soon as possible.This will rinse away any sebum, sweat, and sunscreen that can build up around your hair follicles and cause inflammation. Ideally, use a mild cleanser that contains salicylic acid to help reduce existing inflammation and unclog pores. Then pat dry your body with a towel and, if necessary, apply acne remedy to problem areas or dots.

You can safely use the same products as for the face, but make sure that there is no benzoyl peroxide in the beauty product.The fact is that benzoyl peroxide is great for treating acne on the face, but it shouldn’t be used on the body because it tends to whiten the skin and oxidize. Those who have used this ingredient will notice that it oxidizes fabrics and damages shirts and sheets. Point remedies – gels, rollers or plasters – also work well with inflammation on the skin. In addition, they are great at masking acne.

If none of the above works, schedule an appointment with a dermatologist.Perhaps your problem is a hormonal imbalance or the fact that overly active sebaceous glands against a background of stress could provoke the development of a yeast infection.

Can scrubs be used to remove acne from the back and décolleté?

Scrubs and scrub pads are not a good idea for those with acne and inflammation on their bodies. Exfoliating the skin with abrasive particles and washcloths can spread the infection from the infected area to the healthy one. You can also overdo it if you rub your skin too vigorously, which will dry out and release more oil, leading to more acne. As for the skin in the décolleté area, it can be scratched and injured, as it is thin and delicate.
It is best to use exfoliant discs for this area. They can solve the problem of clogged pores, inflammation and uneven skin texture. The discs gently exfoliate old cells with lactic acid and papaya extract. Their regular use restores the work of the sebaceous glands, gently exfoliates the surface layer, restores radiance, reduces traces of inflammation and age spots, cleanses and tightens pores.

90,000 Acne on the back, causes of the disease, symptoms, anonymous treatment, doctor’s appointment – “Mesed Clinic”

Many people suffer from acne on their back, although more often a person deals with acne that manifests itself on the face. Back acne is much more difficult to heal. Often, rashes cause severe itching, irritation and, worst of all, an unsightly appearance and discomfort due to this. The process of appearance of acne is simplified as follows: during hyperkeratosis of the skin, the mouths of the sebaceous glands are blocked, which leads to the accumulation of mucus and bacterial colonization in the pores, as a result, acne occurs on the back or face.

Acne and genes

Undoubtedly, acne is a chronic skin condition that can be passed on from generation to generation. Genes play a major role in this process. Your genes can influence hormones in your body that can cause excess sebum production.

If a parent had acne problems during adolescence, it is very likely that changes will manifest themselves at this age and in his child.

Hormones play an important role in the pathogenesis of acne.The production of sebum is activated through androgens – the so-called “male” hormones. That is why acne on the back and shoulders appears, as a rule, during puberty, because then the level of hormones in the body increases rapidly.

Back acne treatment

Back acne treatment is a lengthy process that often requires the help of a specialist. If left untreated, cysts can form and the disease takes the form of eczema (acne causes severe itching and rash).A beautician or dermatologist will suggest ways to treat back acne and skin care cosmetics. Don’t forget about personal hygiene and gentle cosmetic detergents.

It is very important for people with acne to consult a dermatologist. The specialist will select a treatment method suitable for the patient and a remedy for acne on the back.

Back acne is a dermatological problem. The goal of treatment should be mainly to eliminate pathogenic bacteria, restore the skin and prevent further development of back acne.But finding an effective method on how to get rid of back acne is not always an easy task for the sufferer.

You need to know how to get rid of back acne. Acne usually disappears spontaneously, but sometimes getting rid of it requires specialized therapy. In the fight against acne, gels are used, in particular, containing natural derivatives of vitamin A. They have an anti-inflammatory effect, reduce sebum secretion and unclog clogged pores.At the same time, they prevent the formation of new comedones and facilitate the penetration of other active substances.

Doctors know how to treat back acne. Correct behavior during each day is important when applying the appropriate treatment. Doctors recommend that people with back acne avoid wearing tight clothing.

Acne scars

Due to the fact that many of the patients with acne decide too late to go to the dermatologist, acne scars can form on their backs.Remember, if you notice alarming symptoms, see a specialist as soon as possible. The sooner you do this, the more chances you will have of preventing unsightly scars!

Back acne is an increasingly common skin condition in men and women. By following the above tips and recommendations of the doctor, you can find a method how to remove acne and prevent the development of unpleasant changes in the future.

Treatment and analyzes are ANONYMOUS!

90,000 Back acne – how to get rid of rashes

In medical terminology, the word pimple is not.Acne is a common (common) popular name for acne or acne. Acne, or simply pimples, is a skin disorder caused by a blockage (blockage) in the hair follicle (hair follicle). Acne appears mainly on the face and upper back, since it is in these places that the sebaceous glands are most concentrated. And if acne on the face most often occurs in adolescence, adolescence, then acne on the back can appear later, signaling that something is wrong.In the article we will understand the causes, prevention and treatment of acne on the back.

All information in the article, including methods of treatment and recipes for traditional medicine are provided for informational purposes only, and cannot be considered instructions for use! We recommend that you contact your family doctor or a specialist dermatologist before using any medical and health procedures!

Contents:

Causes of acne on the back

Acne on the back can occur in adolescents, men and women, due to external factors or internal, when something goes wrong in the body.In general terms, the mechanism of back acne is as follows – oil is produced in the sebaceous glands associated with hair follicles, which moisturizes and protects the skin and hair. Acne occurs in the case of clogged pores, due to an excess of fat in conjunction with keratinized (dead) skin cells, that is, due to clogging of the pore with a kind of cork.

Small pimples on the back may have a white “head” (pus) if the follicle is inflamed or contaminated with bacteria, or a dark substance that looks like dirt, but is actually bacteria and fat that changes to a dark color when exposed to oxygen.

In the case of deep follicle blockage and inflammation, cyst-like lumps may develop under the skin surface. The pores that cause sweating are usually unrelated to acne.

To defeat a disease, it is necessary to eliminate the causes of its occurrence and only then to fight the symptoms. Let’s take a closer look at all the possible options for the development of acne on the back.

External factors

This includes everything that is not directly related to the activity of the body.It is rather a reaction of the skin to external irritants. If the cause of acne on the back is external influence, then understanding their origin can be relatively easy to get rid of acne and prevent relapses. In this case, everything is easily corrected.

Using the wrong cream or lotion

The problem is especially relevant in the beach season, when the mass use of creams and lotions for and for tanning begins. Of course, protective products are needed for the skin, but too cheap options can seriously aggravate the problem, due to the high content of substances that clog the pores of the skin.

In the case of cream – if your skin is oily and you use a moisturizer, expect problems in the form of profuse acne breakouts. In this case, you need a special cream for oily skin, which will not contribute to the formation of acne.

An inappropriate hair conditioner can also be a problem, as during a known procedure, the hygiene product runs down the back and, in the presence of certain substances, can clog the pores. The way out can be the purchase of a conditioner with the inscriptions – “does not clog pores”, “does not contain oil.”

Loose hair

The cause of back acne due to long hair can occur in summer when clothes do not cover the shoulders. The bottom line is that hair can irritate the sebaceous glands, as a result of which more fat is released. Also, the curls contain dust, microparticles of dirt and their own fat, which can also cause acne in the shoulder area.

Clothing

Pimples can be caused by clothing that is too tight, synthetic materials, a backpack that covers the back, or training clothing that is not fresh.Women have an additional risk factor in the form of bra straps.

In the case of heavy clothing, backpacks and underwear, particles of dirt, sweat, dead cells and bacteria are literally rubbed into the skin, thereby clogging pores and forming plugs and inflammation. Synthetic fabrics practically do not allow air to pass through, which creates ideal conditions for active reproduction of bacteria, with all that it implies.

If there is a problem with acne on your back, try to wear looser clothes made from natural fabrics (for example, cotton) and at least temporarily give up the backpack.

For avid athletes, training clothes should be washed after each session. All you need is to have 2-3 sets in stock. A relatively fresh smell is not an indicator of the absence of harmful bacteria on the shirt.

Poor hygiene

Poor hygiene

As mentioned above, in the region of the back (on the shoulders and between the shoulder blades), there is a large accumulation of fatty glands, however, every person has a different intensity of sweat and sebum secretion, this is very individual.If you sweat a lot, reduce the interval between water treatments. Washing your face is much easier, it takes less time than a full shower, but if you have acne on your back, frequent showering can be a good prevention of rashes.

It is very important to shower immediately after exercise. You should not disdain a common shower in the gym or in a sports complex, it is enough to be vigilant – slippers, individual hygiene items. The time that will pass before you get home from training will be successfully used by bacteria, you can be sure of that.

On especially hot days, it is advisable to take a shower up to 2-3 times or more, depending on the circumstances.

Internal causes

Due to various processes that occur inside the body, the secretion of fat from the sebaceous glands of the skin may increase, and fat mixed with dust, as you already know, is a good reason for clogging pores, which ultimately causes acne or acne.

Genetics

If one of the parents had acne in adolescence, then there is a 78% chance that the child, upon reaching adolescence, may also face this problem, as evidenced by the studies.

In the vast majority of cases, after full puberty, acne goes away on its own, due to the normalization of hormonal levels. However, it is important not to allow large-scale inflammation, since in this case numerous scars (scars) and changes in skin texture can form. Fighting with the cause will not work, you need to put up with it and wait it out, but with the consequences you can not only do something, but you also need to do something with the help of various cosmetics (lotions, acne cream) and procedures (for example, mechanical or chemical peeling) …

Hormones

Acne can occur during hormonal surges – puberty in men and women, menstruation, pregnancy, as well as with hormone therapy with testosterone. Androgenic hormones – lead to an increase in the size of the sebaceous glands and change the composition of sebum.

You should be very careful about dietary supplements. Without urgent need, you should categorically not take hormone-containing drugs or use creams that can affect hormonal balance.Acne is the most harmless thing that can be!

Stress

Stress

Not being a direct cause, but can trigger the mechanism of acne, due to the effect on the nervous system of the body and hormones, it serves as a kind of trigger. Acne cannot be caused by psychosomatics, at least at the moment, such cases are not known to official science.

Power supply features

We are what we eat . .. There is no reliable research that directly proves the effect of certain foods on acne! However, there is a study by the American Academy of Dermatology that clearly shows the link between a low glycemic index diet and reduced acne.

List of some low glycemic index foods:

• practically all fresh vegetables;
• fresh fruits;
• legumes;
• oatmeal.

This is explained by the fact that foods with a low glycemic index inhibit the sharp spikes in blood sugar. With a jump in sugar in the body, the sebaceous glands secrete more fat, which means the risk of clogged pores increases.

Try to eliminate certain foods from your diet one at a time (for example, sweet, fatty, salty, etc.)while observing the reaction of the organism.

Drug side effects

Certain medicines can make your acne worse. For the most part, these are serious, hormone-containing prescription drugs. However, antidepressants can also be a catalyst. Read the instructions before use.

If you notice a connection between starting the drug and the occurrence of acne on the back or other parts of the body, you should stop taking the drug and consult your doctor.

Latent diseases

Acne can cause various diseases that you may not be aware of, such as diabetes, hepatitis, inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, liver and kidney problems.

If a rash occurs sharply already in adulthood and has not been observed before, this is a good reason to visit a dermatologist and get expert advice.

Methods of dealing with acne on the back

Above we have described the most common causes of back acne.If the rash appears suddenly in adulthood, try to analyze what may have preceded it. Perhaps you have introduced a certain product into the diet or you have a favorite thing that you wear all the time, maybe you changed your laundry detergent, shower gel, hair conditioner, or started running in the morning.

Let’s structure and give general recommendations that may be useful:

1. Take a shower more often, especially in summer when you sweat profusely, 2 times a day is not the limit.
2. Replace your regular soap or gel with an antibacterial one.
3. Make sure the hair does not irritate your back – high hairstyle or short hair.
4. Do not use sunscreen or body care products that are too oily.
5. If you sweat, try to change damp clothes more often and do not wear clothes that are not fresh.
6. Get rid of synthetic clothing in which you clearly sweat more, this is easily identified by its characteristic odor.
7. Make dietary changes.
8. Eliminate all sources of stress from your life, watch more comedies, just allow yourself to relax

If you have adjusted your lifestyle, but it has not brought any result, you need to consult a doctor, perhaps acne is a symptom of a more serious disease. If no pathologies are found, you can try to do treatment at home or in a beauty parlor.

At home

There are many drugs (acne cream, ointment, lotion) that will help you effectively get rid of acne at home.Very relevant for teenagers. Some drugs dry out acne, reduce the activity of the sebaceous glands, others have an antibacterial effect and may even contain topical antibiotics. We recommend purchasing small doses of a particular drug in order to test its effectiveness in action, here you cannot do without trial and error. Special care should be taken with drugs that contain antibiotics!

There are also pills that can affect the processes associated with hair follicles, but remember that these are quite serious drugs and self-medication can do more harm than good.Be sure to consult your family doctor before using!

Cosmetology

In the 21st century, cosmetology has advanced quite far in the fight against acne and other skin defects. There are laser, chemical and drainage treatments that can get rid of back acne in one or more treatments. High-quality cosmetic procedures can permanently close the issue of acne on the back and other parts of the body, of course, if these are not symptoms of another disease.

It is very important to realize that if you decide to use this method in the fight against acne, you must choose a qualified cosmetologist who uses certified drugs and modern equipment, and also has all the necessary permits for the provision of services! It is highly discouraged to use the services of “specialists” who carry out such procedures at the client’s home, this can have serious health consequences.

Traditional medicine against acne

There are a lot of recipes on how to remove acne on the back in the public domain, some are not very effective, it all depends on the cause of the rash, as well as on the characteristics of a particular organism.Here are some recipes for getting rid of back acne.

Please note! The network has a large number of “folk recipes” for all occasions, including acne. However, some of them are simply not effective, for example – wiping problem areas with ice cubes, others are frankly dangerous, for example – toothpaste for acne! Before using this or that remedy, think carefully and weigh the pros and cons.

Aloe

Aloe – the plant itself has antibacterial and anti-irritation properties.In the fight against acne, aloe juice is used. To do this, you need to cut off the leaves that are more than 2 years old and put them in a paper bag in the refrigerator for 1 week. After a week, squeeze the juice from the leaves and smear it with acne.

laundry soap

Laundry soap – perfectly dries oily skin and disinfects it. Laundry soap has a high alkali content. Try using laundry soap instead of regular soap for problem areas.

Medical alcohol or hydrogen peroxide – applied to a cotton swab, then acne with a white substance inside is cauterized.This dries and disinfects problem areas at the same time.