Breakouts on my back. Effective Treatments and Prevention for Back Acne: A Comprehensive Guide

18.01.202309.06.2023 by alexxlab

What causes back acne. How can you effectively treat back acne at home. What medical treatments are available for severe back acne. When should you see a doctor about back acne. How can you prevent back acne from recurring.

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Understanding Back Acne: Causes and Symptoms

Back acne, often referred to as “backne,” is a common skin condition that affects many individuals. It occurs when the pores on your back become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria. This blockage leads to inflammation and the formation of various types of acne lesions.

Common Symptoms of Back Acne

Red, inflamed bumps
Blackheads or whiteheads
Back pain or tenderness
Acne scars

The severity of back acne can vary from person to person, ranging from mild breakouts to more severe cystic acne. Understanding the underlying causes is crucial for effective treatment and prevention.

What Triggers Back Acne?

Several factors can contribute to the development of back acne:

Overactive sebaceous glands producing excess sebum
Hormonal changes during puberty, pregnancy, or menstrual cycles
Certain medications, such as steroids or testosterone replacement therapy
Stress
Use of oily skin or hair products
Friction from tight clothing or backpacks
Excessive sweating

Are genetics a factor in back acne development? While not the sole cause, genetic predisposition can play a role in determining an individual’s likelihood of developing acne, including on the back. If your parents or siblings have struggled with acne, you may be more susceptible to experiencing it as well.

Effective Home Remedies for Back Acne

For mild to moderate cases of back acne, several home remedies and lifestyle changes can help alleviate symptoms and prevent future breakouts.

Proper Hygiene and Skincare Routine

Maintaining good hygiene is essential for managing back acne. Here are some tips:

Shower daily, especially after sweating
Use a gentle, non-comedogenic body wash
Exfoliate regularly to remove dead skin cells
Pat your skin dry instead of rubbing
Apply a light, oil-free moisturizer

Can tea tree oil help with back acne? Tea tree oil has natural antibacterial properties that may help fight acne-causing bacteria. Dilute a few drops of tea tree oil in a carrier oil and apply it to affected areas. However, always perform a patch test first to check for any allergic reactions.

Dietary Changes for Clearer Skin

While the link between diet and acne is still being studied, some dietary changes may help improve your skin:

Reduce intake of high-glycemic foods
Increase consumption of fruits and vegetables
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water
Consider incorporating omega-3 fatty acids into your diet

Does dairy consumption affect back acne? Some studies suggest a potential link between dairy consumption and acne. If you suspect dairy may be triggering your breakouts, consider reducing your intake and observing any changes in your skin over time.

Over-the-Counter Treatments for Back Acne

For those seeking more targeted treatments, several over-the-counter options are available to combat back acne.

Topical Treatments

Look for products containing the following active ingredients:

Benzoyl peroxide: Kills acne-causing bacteria
Salicylic acid: Unclogs pores and reduces inflammation
Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs): Exfoliate dead skin cells
Retinol: Promotes cell turnover and unclogs pores

How long does it take for OTC treatments to show results? It typically takes 4-6 weeks of consistent use to see noticeable improvements in back acne. However, individual results may vary depending on the severity of the condition and the specific product used.

Body Washes and Cleansers

Incorporating medicated body washes into your shower routine can help manage back acne. Look for products containing:

Salicylic acid
Benzoyl peroxide
Tea tree oil
Glycolic acid

Are natural ingredients effective for treating back acne? While some natural ingredients like tea tree oil and aloe vera may have anti-inflammatory properties, their effectiveness in treating back acne varies. It’s best to combine natural remedies with proven acne-fighting ingredients for optimal results.

Prescription Treatments for Severe Back Acne

When over-the-counter treatments prove ineffective, it may be time to consult a dermatologist for prescription-strength options.

Topical Prescription Medications

Your dermatologist may prescribe stronger versions of topical treatments, such as:

Retinoids (e.g., tretinoin, adapalene)
Antibiotics (e.g., clindamycin, erythromycin)
Combination products containing benzoyl peroxide and antibiotics

How do topical antibiotics work against back acne? Topical antibiotics help reduce acne-causing bacteria on the skin’s surface, thereby decreasing inflammation and preventing new breakouts. They are often combined with other acne-fighting ingredients for enhanced effectiveness.

Oral Medications

For severe cases of back acne, oral medications may be prescribed:

Antibiotics (e.g., doxycycline, minocycline)
Isotretinoin (for severe, cystic acne)
Hormonal treatments (for women with hormone-related acne)

What are the potential side effects of oral acne medications? Side effects can vary depending on the specific medication. Common side effects may include dryness of skin and mucous membranes, sensitivity to sunlight, and gastrointestinal issues. Isotretinoin, while highly effective, requires close monitoring due to more serious potential side effects.

Advanced Treatments for Persistent Back Acne

For those with stubborn back acne that doesn’t respond to traditional treatments, several advanced options are available.

Light and Laser Therapies

These treatments use different types of light to target acne-causing bacteria and reduce inflammation:

Blue light therapy
Red light therapy
Photodynamic therapy
Laser treatments

How many sessions of light therapy are typically needed for back acne? The number of sessions required varies depending on the severity of the acne and the specific treatment used. Generally, a series of 4-6 treatments spaced 1-2 weeks apart is recommended, with maintenance treatments as needed.

Chemical Peels and Microdermabrasion

These treatments can help exfoliate the skin, unclog pores, and promote cell turnover:

Superficial chemical peels (e.g., glycolic acid, salicylic acid)
Medium-depth chemical peels (e.g., TCA peels)
Microdermabrasion

Are chemical peels safe for all skin types? While chemical peels can be effective for many skin types, individuals with sensitive skin or certain skin conditions should consult a dermatologist before undergoing treatment. The strength and type of peel should be tailored to your specific skin type and concerns.

Lifestyle Changes to Prevent Back Acne Recurrence

Implementing certain lifestyle changes can help prevent back acne from recurring and maintain clearer skin.

Clothing and Fabric Choices

The right clothing choices can make a significant difference in managing back acne:

Opt for loose-fitting, breathable fabrics like cotton
Avoid tight synthetic materials that trap sweat
Change out of sweaty clothes promptly after exercise
Use a clean towel to pat dry after showering

Can certain fabrics exacerbate back acne? Yes, synthetic fabrics that don’t allow the skin to breathe can trap sweat and bacteria, potentially leading to more breakouts. Natural, breathable fabrics like cotton are generally better for acne-prone skin.

Stress Management and Exercise

Reducing stress and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can contribute to clearer skin:

Practice stress-reduction techniques like meditation or yoga
Engage in regular exercise, but shower promptly afterward
Get adequate sleep
Stay hydrated

How does exercise affect back acne? While exercise is beneficial for overall health, sweat can mix with bacteria and oils on the skin, potentially clogging pores. It’s crucial to shower promptly after working out and wear breathable clothing during exercise to minimize the risk of breakouts.

When to Seek Professional Help for Back Acne

While many cases of back acne can be managed at home, there are instances when professional medical advice is necessary.

Signs It’s Time to See a Dermatologist

Consider consulting a dermatologist if:

Over-the-counter treatments haven’t improved your acne after 4-6 weeks
Your back acne is severe or cystic
You’re developing scars from your acne
The acne is causing significant emotional distress
You suspect your acne may be related to an underlying medical condition

What can you expect during a dermatologist appointment for back acne? During your appointment, the dermatologist will examine your skin, discuss your medical history and current skincare routine, and may perform tests if necessary. They will then develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and acne severity.

Potential Complications of Untreated Back Acne

Leaving severe back acne untreated can lead to several complications:

Permanent scarring
Skin discoloration
Increased risk of infection
Emotional distress and decreased self-esteem

Can back acne scars be treated? Yes, there are several treatments available for acne scars, including laser therapy, chemical peels, microneedling, and topical treatments. The best approach depends on the type and severity of scarring, and should be determined in consultation with a dermatologist.

By understanding the causes of back acne, implementing appropriate treatments and lifestyle changes, and seeking professional help when needed, you can effectively manage and prevent back acne, leading to clearer, healthier skin. Remember that consistency is key in any acne treatment plan, and it may take time to see significant improvements. Stay patient and persistent in your skincare routine for the best results.

Don’t turn your back on back acne

Speaking of Health

Tuesday, June 7, 2022

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Family Medicine

Cosmetic Services

Your back may be out of sight, but when you have back acne, it’s not out of mind. That’s especially true when you’re shirtless, go for a swim or try on that backless sundress.

While back acne can be irritating, painful and embarrassing, various treatments and lifestyle changes relieve this common skin problem.

Here’s what you need to know about back acne and how it’s treated.

What is back acne?

If you have acne on your back, you may experience:

Red, inflamed bumps
Blackheads or whiteheads
Back pain or tenderness
Acne scars

Like all acne, back acne is caused by overactive sebaceous glands. These glands produce an oily substance called sebum, which helps keep skin healthy. However, too much sebum can lead to bacteria growth and dead skin cells, which can block pores in the skin.

Several factors can trigger overproduction of sebum, including:

Hormonal changes, such as during puberty or pregnancy
Certain medications, such as steroids or testosterone replacement therapy
Stress
Oily skin or hair products

How is back acne treated?

If you think you have back acne, you should seek care. Your primary care provider can determine how severe your case is, recommend the best treatment and possibly refer you to a dermatologist.

Typical treatments for back acne include:

Topical medications, such as benzoyl peroxide, retinoids and antibiotics, that are applied directly to the skin.
Oral medications, such as antibiotics or isotretinoin, which is a powerful acne medication.
Physical treatments, including laser therapy, light therapy or dermabrasion, which is the removal of surface layers of skin.

Do lifestyle changes help?

You can relieve back acne by making dietary and lifestyle changes, such as:

Avoiding triggers, like oily skin products, stress or certain medications.
Eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly.
Showering after activities that cause you to sweat.
Avoiding tight clothes, clothes that cause friction against the skin, and nonbreathable sports or activewear that traps sweat. Cotton is a good material for workout clothes because it wicks away moisture.
Limiting irritating products that may cause acne to flare.
Using gentle cleansers, such as Cetaphil and Vanicream, especially if applying prescription retinoids or stronger topicals that can overly dry out and irritate the skin.

If an initial treatment doesn’t produce results, your health care professional can help find a solution that works best for you so you can turn your back on back acne.

Amanda Logan is a nurse practitioner in Family Medicine in Janesville, Minnesota.

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Why does acne occur on the back?

Like the chest and face, the back has a high density of sebaceous glands. These produce sebum, an oily substance that forms a protective coating for the skin.

Sebaceous glands are attached to hair follicles or pores. If sebum or dead skin cells clog a pore, it can cause a blockage. This blockage may lead to inflammation or trap bacteria in the pore. This is how acne lesions develop.

A type of yeast, Malassezia, can also cause lesions that look similar to acne. The yeast tends to overgrow in humid, sweaty environments. Because clothing, backpacks, and slings often cover the back, it can be an ideal environment for this microbe to grow.

If the yeast gets into the hair follicles, it can cause a condition known as pityrosporum folliculitis. If antibacterial treatments have not worked for back acne, a person may have pityrosporum folliculitis instead.

Below is a range of OTC and prescription treatments a person can consider.

Cleanser

According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD), people with mild-to-moderate back acne may benefit from combining acne-friendly skin care with OTC products that target the lesions. Individuals with more severe back acne may need prescription drugs.

A person should wash the skin with a mild, non-irritating cleanser every day and after getting sweaty. They should also avoid harsh soaps and astringents and keep from scrubbing the acne — this increases the inflammation.

When acne flares up, people can use a benzoyl peroxide wash. This ingredient kills bacteria and helps reduce lesions. It works best when a person leaves the wash on their skin for a few minutes before rinsing it away. This is because the skin on the back is thicker than on the face, so it may need extra time to absorb.

The AAD writes that a concentration of around 5.3% is less likely to cause side effects such as irritation, dryness, and peeling.

A person can consider Differin Daily Deep Cleanser, which contains 5% benzoyl peroxide. This product is suitable for sensitive skin, and a 4 fluid ounce (fl oz) bottle costs $12.47.

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Retinoids

To reduce acne, a person might also try a skin care product that contains 0.1% retinoid in addition to using a benzoyl peroxide face wash. Many OTC creams contain retinoids.

Another option is adapalene gel. Doctors recommend using this after showering and before going to sleep.

An applicator can help a person apply treatments to difficult-to-reach parts of the back.

One adapalene product a person can consider is the La Roche Posay Effaclear 0.1% Adapalene Gel, which is suitable for everyday use. The company writes it is suitable for sensitive skin and works to improve cell turnover, which removes and prevents dead skin cells from clogging the pores.

A 1.6 oz tube costs $30.99.

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Moisturizer

If the skin on the back feels dry or tight, particularly after showering or bathing, a person might use an oil-free moisturizer. Look for products that are labeled “non-comedogenic.” This means that they do not clog pores.

The CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion for Dry Skin aims to hydrate the skin with hyaluronic acid and restore the skin’s protective barrier with ceramides. It is non-comedogenic and suitable for acne-prone skin.

A person can use this moisturizer daily, and a 19 fl oz bottle costs $18.37.

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Sunscreen

Sun exposure can make acne lesions darker and more noticeable. It can also cause them to last longer. The AAD recommends a person uses a non-comedogenic sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or above whenever a person has their back exposed.

Oral contraceptives

If a person’s acne seems linked to the menstrual cycle, they may wish to consider trying oral contraceptives, which is an effective treatment in females.

Although hormonal acne is not a term used by doctors, hormones can play a part in the formation of acne. During puberty, rising testosterone levels can increase sebum production, and conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can cause an overproduction of androgens like testosterone.

Oral contraceptives can decrease androgen levels.

However, oral contraceptives often have side effects and may not always be effective in managing acne.

A person should speak to a doctor to understand whether oral contraceptives will be effective and safe for them to use. They should also continue to work with a dermatologist and keep up their skincare routine while using birth control for acne.

Oral antibiotics

Drugs such as doxycycline and erythromycin can reduce the amount of acne-causing bacteria on the skin. A dermatologist will likely recommend the shortest possible dosage because overuse can lead to antibiotic resistance, and antibiotics can kill healthy bacteria in the gut.

Isotretinoin

This medication aims to treat excessive oil, inflammation, clogged pores, and bacteria.

According to the AAD, 85% of people who take isotretinoin experience permanent clearing of acne after one course. The common side effects can include dry skin, eyes, nose, and mouth, itching, and headaches.

Severe side effects include suicidal thoughts, aggression, difficulty moving the limbs, and severe skin rash. However, these side effects are rare and occur in less than 1 out of 1,000 people.

A person should talk with a doctor about whether isotretinoin is right for them.

Antiandrogen therapy

Antiandrogen involves taking medications that suppress testosterone, such as cyproterone acetate and ethinylestradiol or spironolactone.

Dermatologists may consider it for females who do not respond to oral contraceptives or have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Light and laser therapy

A dermatologist may recommend and perform laser or light therapy for acne. This involves exposing the skin to a special type of light during regular sessions for a set period.

There are different types of light therapy:

Red, blue, or infrared light therapy can treat pimples but not whiteheads, blackheads, cysts, or nodules.
Photopneumatic therapy can help unclog pores — treating whiteheads and blackheads but not cysts.
Photodynamic therapy can successfully treat severe acne, but it is more expensive.
At-home light therapy devices can treat pimples, but the light is less intense than the one a dermatologist uses.

For lesions that leave noticeable scars, a dermatologist can use procedures such as laser treatments, microneedling, and chemical peels to reduce their appearance.

People must visit dermatologists or plastic surgeons with the appropriate qualifications and experience for treating acne and reducing scars. Visiting someone or a clinic that does not have such expertise and the best equipment can result in disappointment and more harm.

Below is an overview of the treatments included in this article.

	Prescription-only	Suitable for long-term prevention and care
Cleanser	no	yes
Retinoids	no	yes
Moisturizer	no	yes
Sunscreen	no	yes
Oral contraceptives	yes	depends on the individual
Oral antibiotics	yes	no
Isotretinoin	yes	no
Antiandrogen therapy	no	no
Light and laser therapy	no	depends on the individual

The acne-friendly skin care routine outlined by the AAD can help prevent back acne as well as treat it. A gentle cleanser, non-comedogenic moisturizer, and adequate sun protection can be an effective route for a person to take.

Other skin care strategies that can prevent or reduce acne and skin irritation include:

regularly washing bed linens, towels, and pillowcases
regularly washing clothes, particularly tight-fitting ones, such as bras or binders
avoiding wearing things that rub against the back, such as backpacks
exercising in loose-fitting clothes made from natural fibers, such as cotton
showering and changing clothes immediately after exercise or using cleansing wipes
washing workout clothes and equipment after each use

Acne affects many people. Certain factors that can contribute to or raise the risk of its development include:

Puberty

Teenagers often develop acne, possibly due to the increase in testosterone during puberty. Testosterone plays a key role in stimulating the growth and development of the testicles and penis in males and maintaining bone and muscle strength in females.

Experts believe that testosterone causes the sebaceous glands to overproduce sebum, increasing the likelihood of blocked pores. Acne may improve when the person enters adulthood.

Family history

A person is more likely to develop acne if one or both parents have had it.

If both parents had acne, a person might be more likely to develop it at an early age. If a person’s parents had acne as adults, the person might also be more likely to have it during adulthood.

Sex

Males are more likely to develop acne than females, according to a 2022 overview of acne.

Other triggers

Other factors that may cause acne or trigger outbreaks include:

certain medications, such as steroids and some forms of hormonal birth control
cosmetic products that are not non-comedogenic
regularly wearing items, such as backpacks, that rub or irritate affected areas of the skin

There is also some evidence that dietary factors can worsen or improve acne. According to the AAD, some studies have shown that a low glycemic index diet reduces acne. This involves eating “slow-burning” carbohydrates, which do not cause blood sugar to spike, and avoiding unhealthy foods such as bread, doughnuts, and potatoes.

Also, some studies have found an association between cow’s milk and higher rates of acne. However, the link is unclear, and there is no evidence that other dairy products, such as yogurt or cheese, cause acne.

Below are answers to the top frequently asked questions about back acne.

Will back acne go away by itself?

The UK National Health Service (NHS) writes that acne often goes away when a person is in their mid-20s.

However, a person should talk with a doctor about their back acne to discuss treatment and how to manage acne at home to reduce the risk of scarring.

Does scrubbing your back help acne?

No. Scrubbing acne can increase inflammation, cause scratches or wounds, and increase the risk of scarring. People can gently exfoliate their skin once a week to remove dead skin cells and dirt from their back.

Should I moisturize back acne?

Yes. Using a gentle, non-comedogenic, and fragrance-free moisturizer can help to keep the skin hydrated. This helps repair the skin’s moisture barrier, which acne can impair. Dry skin can cause an overproduction of sebum, which contributes to the formation of acne.

Back acne, or backne, occurs when dead skin cells and oil from the sebaceous glands block pores, causing inflammation. It can be harder to see and reach acne on the back in order to treat it. However, a range of effective OTC and prescription treatments are available, and using an applicator can help.

To prevent acne and help to reduce it, a person should adopt a regular, gentle skin care routine. They should also change out of sweaty clothing after exercising, change bedsheets regularly, and avoid harsh soaps and comedogenic products.

In addition, back acne can worsen if a person regularly wears clothing or accessories that rub against their back, such as a tight-fitting bra, a backpack, or binders.

A person should speak with a dermatologist about severe or persistent acne. Some acne-like lesions result from different health issues, which require different treatments.

Read the article in Spanish.

Acne on the back: what it can be and how to get rid of it, doctor’s comments

Material commented:

Natalia Gryazeva, PhD, associate professor, dermatovenereologist, cosmetologist at the Hadassah Moscow clinic;

Natalia Antonova, dietitian, endocrinologist, SM-Clinic

Acne on the back is a chronic inflammatory disease of the sebaceous glands. It can occur due to genetic predisposition, improper body care or unhealthy diet, hormonal changes or medications. If your pimples are few and far between, you can try to get rid of them through lifestyle changes and over-the-counter products. But if the problem is more serious, then you will have to go to a dermatologist.

What is
Causes
From which products
How to get rid of
Treatment

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What is acne on the back

The sebaceous glands produce sebum, or sebum. It is needed to lubricate the skin and hair, as well as to protect against germs. Acne (the medical name for pimples) occurs when excess sebum and dead skin cells clog pores along with C. acnes bacteria. Therefore, the main factors in the development of acne and pimples are violations of the production of sebum and an increased number of bacteria on the skin.

Pimples can affect any part of the body, but most often appear in areas where there are most sebaceous glands. In the first place – the face, in the second – the back, especially its upper part. According to the UK National Health Service, more than half of people with acne on the face also have it on their back [1].

In addition to bacteria, body pimples can be caused by yeasts such as pityrosporum. In this case, conventional remedies will not help – you will have to use special antifungal drugs.

There are different types of pimples on any part of the body:

whiteheads (miliums, pimples with a white head) – clogged hair follicles, in which the affected area is located deep in the skin and does not come into contact with air;
comedones (black dots) – clogged pores on the surface of the skin, in which the sebum oxidizes and turns black;
papules – inflamed hair follicles without pus; most often they are pink and sore;
pustules – inflamed follicles with pus; when such a pimple “ripens”, a white head appears in its middle;
nodules and cysts – inflammation deep in the skin; may be red, blue-violet, or the same color as the rest of the skin, but are firm to the touch and resemble a bump or swelling.

Causes of acne on the back

Pimples on the back are caused by many different factors.

Genetics

Predisposition to oily skin and acne can be inherited. There is no single gene responsible for the risk of acne. But, for example, the body’s ability to fight acne-causing bacteria largely depends on genetics [2]. Studies show that children of people with acne are more likely to suffer from the disease [3]. In addition, some diseases, the predisposition to which is transmitted at the genetic level, can cause acne. One of the most common examples is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Hormones

The risk of developing acne largely depends on the hormonal background. Therefore, acne often occurs during adolescence, when the body goes through a major hormonal adjustment. The peak incidence of acne occurs at 15–18 years of age [4]. At this age, they are, in fact, considered the norm. In adult men, acne can appear as a side effect of taking steroids and other sports supplements, and in women, during menstruation, pregnancy, endocrine and gynecological diseases.

Side effect of medications

Pimples or acne-like rash can occur with many medications. Most often, this side effect is caused by:

lithium;
corticosteroids;
anticonvulsants;
barbiturates;
androgenic steroids;
preparations containing bromides;
preparations containing iodides;
anticancer therapy.

Poor hygiene

Pimples on the back can appear if the skin is left contaminated for a long time – for example, not taking a shower after the gym. Or if you rarely wash and do not wash clothes and towels for a long time – namely, bacteria that cause acne multiply in them.

Mechanical damage

Sometimes pimples on the back and shoulders appear due to negative effects on the skin. For example, they can occur if you carry a heavy backpack all day that will rub, or if the skin under it sweats a lot. In addition, acne can also appear from exposure to light – contrary to the stereotype, sunbathing does not help get rid of acne, but it can provoke them.

What foods cause acne on the back

One of the risk factors for acne is improper diet. It has been proven that foods high in saturated fat increase inflammation in the body, including an increased risk of developing acne and eczema [5]. Sweets and simple carbohydrates also increase the likelihood of skin problems [6].

“Acne requires an integrated approach,” says nutritionist Natalia Antonova. “It is necessary to minimize the impact of all risk factors, and it is worth starting with a diet. Foods with a high glycemic index should be excluded from the diet: sugar, white rice, pastries based on premium wheat flour, soft wheat pasta, chocolate, packaged juices and carbonated drinks, dairy products, fast food, and fatty meats – pork and lamb.”

When treating acne on the back, the doctor recommends eating 3-4 times a day, and drinking clean water between meals. Dinner should be no later than 3 hours before bedtime. “It will be better to replace white bread with black or gray whole grains, add healthy fatty acids to the diet (sea fish, unrefined olive oil, avocado), vegetables (carrots, broccoli, cucumbers, cabbage, greens), fruits with a low glycemic index (apples, kiwi), the berries of our band. Instead of black tea or coffee, it is advisable to use green or herbal teas, such as rooibos or fireweed tea.

How to get rid of acne on your back

If you have mild acne on your back – blackheads and blackheads, you can try to get rid of them without going to the doctor. Here are some resources that can help.

Skin cleansing

Shower should be taken daily, especially if you sweat a lot. Make sure you reach every point on your back with the washcloth as you wash – you might want to buy a larger one. Wear sweat-wicking clothing while exercising. Finally, wash clothes and bedding more often: it is in them that the bacteria that cause acne multiply.

“Microbiota imbalance plays an important role in the development of acne,” says dermatologist Natalya Gryazeva. “That’s why it’s important to cleanse your skin properly. It is best to use external products in the form of gels or foams with a neutral PH.

Benzoyl Peroxide

Many dermatologists call preparations with benzoyl peroxide one of the most effective remedies for acne on the back. This substance effectively kills bacteria on the skin, which is why it is often added to dermatological shower gels, lotions and rubbing emulsions. Numerous studies prove its effectiveness [7], [8].

Salicylic acid

Another well-known and proven remedy for acne is salicylic acid. It is part of almost any acne medication. Salicylic acid penetrates deep into the skin and dissolves accumulated dead cells.

“Salicylic acid has been used to treat acne for a very long time,” explains Natalia Gryazeva. – Its advantage lies in the fact that, in addition to the antiseptic, antimicrobial properties, it also has a comedonolytic effect, that is, it dissolves comedones. However, since salicylic acid is mainly found in alcohol lotions, talkers, when used independently, you can dry the skin and thereby aggravate its condition. Therefore, it is better to use such funds with caution.

Sulfur and resorcinol

An equally popular acne remedy is a combination of these two substances. Resorcinol helps prevent acne by removing accumulated dead skin cells. Sulfur removes excess sebum and kills bacteria.

Sun protection

Sunlight can cause back acne. To prevent this, use sunscreen with SPF. But remember that these creams themselves can also cause rashes and acne.

Before entering the market, SPF products must be tested for comedogenicity, that is, the ability to clog pores and lead to the formation of acne, rashes, explains Natalia Gryazeva. – Therefore, when choosing a sunscreen, you need to look at the label on the package. It should say “non-comedogenic.”

How to get rid of acne: remedies and skin care for acne

Treatment of acne on the back

According to Natalia Gryazeva, you should consult a doctor if there are a lot of acne on your back, they hurt, increase in number and size, suppurate or leave scars behind.

“A dermatologist will confirm or refute the diagnosis, make a diagnosis, determine the form and severity of the disease, and select the necessary treatment,” the dermatologist continues. “It can be topical products in the form of gels, creams, ointments, or systemic drugs.”

According to the doctor, drugs with isotretinoin can be used in severe cases. These are very powerful remedies that can only be taken as prescribed by a doctor. “Before prescribing systemic isotretinoin, you need to conduct an examination, pass a biochemical blood test. Only a dermatologist can choose the right dose and duration of treatment. It is necessary to take such drugs under the supervision of a doctor, since in addition to a positive effect, they also have pronounced side effects.

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Acne on the back is easier to hide than on the face. But that doesn’t mean you have to live with this problem forever. With the help of our tips, you can get rid of acne on your back.

Contents of the article

Do not self-medicate! In our articles, we collect the latest scientific data and the opinions of authoritative health experts. But remember: only a doctor can diagnose and prescribe treatment.

What causes back pimples

The face is not the only place pimples can appear. Data from one of the largest private medical and research centers in the world, the Mayo Clinic (USA), confirms that acne can affect any part of the body. Pimples appear where there are sebaceous glands or hair follicles. Among the most common places are shoulders, chest and back.

According to a study by the UK National Health Service, pimples on the back are present in half of people with acne. The reason for their appearance there and in other areas is the same: the pores become clogged with sebum, and this leads to the growth of bacteria. Now let’s look at the reasons in more depth.