What causes back acne. How can you prevent cystic acne on your back. What are the most effective treatment options for back pimples. How does lifestyle affect bacne development. Can diet influence the occurrence of back acne. What role do hormones play in back acne. How to choose the right skincare products for back acne.

Understanding Back Acne: Causes and Contributing Factors

Back acne, commonly referred to as “bacne,” is a prevalent skin condition that affects many individuals at various stages of life. While facial acne often receives more attention, back acne can be equally frustrating and challenging to manage. To effectively address this issue, it’s crucial to understand the underlying causes and factors that contribute to its development.

The Science Behind Back Acne

Back acne shares many similarities with facial acne in terms of its underlying mechanisms. The primary factors contributing to back acne include:

• Excess oil production (sebum)
• Accumulation of dead skin cells
• Presence of acne-causing bacteria (C. acnes)
• Inflammation

These factors often work in combination, leading to the formation of various types of acne lesions on the back.

Types of Back Acne

Back acne can manifest in several forms, each with its own characteristics:

1. Whiteheads and blackheads (comedones)
2. Papules (small red bumps)
3. Pustules (pus-filled lesions)
4. Nodules (deep, hard inflammatory lesions)
5. Cysts (large, pus-filled inflammatory lesions)

Understanding the type of acne you’re dealing with can help in selecting the most appropriate treatment approach.

Common Triggers for Back Acne Flare-Ups

Several factors can increase the likelihood of developing back acne or exacerbate existing conditions. Identifying these triggers is crucial for effective prevention and management.

Clothing and Equipment

Tight-fitting workout clothes and sports gear can contribute to back acne by trapping sweat and bacteria against the skin. This creates an ideal environment for acne-causing bacteria to thrive.

Skincare Products

Ironically, some products intended to treat acne can actually worsen the condition if they’re too harsh or contain comedogenic ingredients. It’s essential to choose non-comedogenic products specifically formulated for acne-prone skin.

Hormonal Fluctuations

Hormonal changes, particularly during puberty, menstrual cycles, or due to certain medical conditions, can significantly impact acne development. Excess androgens, for instance, have been linked to increased sebum production and subsequent acne formation.

Genetic Predisposition

Family history can play a role in your susceptibility to back acne. If your parents or siblings have struggled with acne, you may be more prone to developing it as well.

Stress

While stress itself doesn’t directly cause acne, it can exacerbate existing conditions and make breakouts more likely. Managing stress through various relaxation techniques can potentially help in controlling back acne.

Effective Prevention Strategies for Back Acne

Preventing back acne often involves a combination of good hygiene practices, appropriate skincare, and lifestyle modifications. Here are some strategies that can help keep back acne at bay:

Proper Post-Workout Hygiene

How quickly should you shower after a workout to prevent back acne? It’s best to shower and change into clean, dry clothes as soon as possible after exercising. This helps remove sweat, bacteria, and dead skin cells that can contribute to acne formation.

Choose the Right Clothing

Opt for loose-fitting, breathable fabrics, especially during workouts or in hot weather. This allows your skin to breathe and reduces the likelihood of pore-clogging sweat and bacteria accumulation.

Use Acne-Fighting Body Products

Incorporate body washes and treatments specifically designed to combat acne into your skincare routine. Look for products containing active ingredients such as salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or tea tree oil.

Maintain Clean Bedding

How often should you change your sheets to prevent back acne? Aim to change your sheets and pillowcases at least once a week. This helps reduce the buildup of dead skin cells, oils, and bacteria that can contribute to acne.

Be Mindful of Hair Products

Hair care products can sometimes contribute to back acne, especially if they contain comedogenic ingredients. Try to keep long hair off your back, particularly when sleeping or exercising.

Effective Treatment Options for Back Acne

When prevention isn’t enough, several treatment options are available to help manage and clear back acne. The most appropriate treatment will depend on the severity and type of acne you’re experiencing.

Over-the-Counter Treatments

Many over-the-counter products can be effective in treating mild to moderate back acne. Look for products containing:

• Salicylic acid
• Benzoyl peroxide
• Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs)
• Tea tree oil

These ingredients can help unclog pores, reduce inflammation, and kill acne-causing bacteria.

Prescription Medications

For more severe cases of back acne, prescription treatments may be necessary. These can include:

• Topical retinoids
• Oral antibiotics
• Hormonal treatments (for women)
• Isotretinoin (for severe, cystic acne)

Always consult with a dermatologist before starting any prescription treatment regimen.

Professional Treatments

In some cases, in-office treatments may be recommended to address back acne. These can include:

• Chemical peels
• Light therapy
• Extractions
• Laser treatments

These treatments are typically performed by a dermatologist or skincare professional and can be particularly effective for stubborn or severe cases of back acne.

The Role of Diet in Back Acne Management

While the relationship between diet and acne is still a topic of ongoing research, some studies suggest that certain dietary factors may influence acne development.

Foods to Consider Limiting

Some foods that may potentially exacerbate acne include:

• High-glycemic foods (e.g., white bread, sugary snacks)
• Dairy products, particularly skim milk
• Foods high in omega-6 fatty acids

Acne-Fighting Foods

On the other hand, certain foods may help in managing acne:

• Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids (e.g., fatty fish, flaxseeds)
• Fruits and vegetables high in antioxidants
• Zinc-rich foods (e.g., lean meats, nuts, seeds)

While dietary changes alone may not cure back acne, a balanced, nutrient-rich diet can support overall skin health.

Lifestyle Modifications for Back Acne Control

In addition to skincare and diet, certain lifestyle modifications can help in managing back acne.

Stress Management

As stress can exacerbate acne, incorporating stress-reduction techniques into your daily routine can be beneficial. Consider practices such as:

• Meditation
• Yoga
• Regular exercise
• Adequate sleep

Avoid Touching or Picking

Resist the urge to touch, squeeze, or pick at back acne. This can introduce more bacteria and lead to inflammation, scarring, and prolonged healing time.

Sun Protection

While some sun exposure can temporarily improve acne’s appearance, excessive sun exposure can lead to skin damage and potentially worsen acne in the long run. Always use a non-comedogenic sunscreen when exposing your back to the sun.

When to Seek Professional Help for Back Acne

While many cases of back acne can be managed with over-the-counter treatments and lifestyle modifications, there are instances where professional help may be necessary.

Signs It’s Time to See a Dermatologist

Consider consulting a dermatologist if:

• Your back acne is severe or cystic
• Over-the-counter treatments aren’t effective after several weeks of use
• You’re developing scars from your back acne
• Your back acne is causing significant physical discomfort or emotional distress

A dermatologist can provide a comprehensive evaluation of your skin and recommend a personalized treatment plan that may include prescription medications or professional treatments.

Coping with the Emotional Impact of Back Acne

The psychological effects of back acne shouldn’t be underestimated. Many individuals experience decreased self-esteem, anxiety, and social withdrawal due to their skin condition.

Building Self-Confidence

Remember that acne is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Focus on your positive attributes and remember that your worth is not determined by your skin’s appearance.

Seeking Support

Don’t hesitate to reach out to friends, family, or a mental health professional if you’re struggling with the emotional impact of back acne. Support groups, either in-person or online, can also provide a valuable sense of community and shared experience.

Back acne, while frustrating, is a manageable condition. By understanding its causes, implementing preventive strategies, exploring treatment options, and addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of the condition, you can work towards clearer, healthier skin. Remember, everyone’s skin is unique, so what works for one person may not work for another. Be patient with your skin, and don’t hesitate to seek professional help if needed. With persistence and the right approach, you can effectively manage back acne and boost your confidence.

What causes back acne and how to help clear it up

Did you know acne can happen not only on the face but elsewhere on the body? It can pop up anywhere, including the shoulders, back, and chest. If you’ve experienced body acne, don’t worry; it’s very common, and many people have dealt with it at some point in their life. Back acne—aka “bacne”—is especially common, and you might even experience inflammatory acne in the form of cysts.
So, what’s the deal with body acne? How does it happen, and how can you get rid of it?

What causes cystic acne on the back?

Cystic acne—or any type of acne, for that matter—on your back is caused by the same contributing factors that lead to acne vulgaris on your face (vulgaris means “common” in Latin). Acne vulgaris is a term that refers to breakouts that involve more than one type of acne lesion. Factors that contribute to breakouts include: 

1. Excess oil production. Skin naturally produces oil, called sebum, in the sebaceous glands. But overproduction of sebum is one factor that can lead to clogged pores and acne.¹

2. Dead skin cells. A build-up of excess dead skin cells can combine with sebum in hair follicles, which can also lead to clogged pores and acne.

3. Bacteria. C. acnes, the bacteria that contributes to acne, thrives in the excess sebum and leads to inflammation when the body’s immune system reacts to fight off the bacteria.

There are several different types of acne, each with its own characteristics and ways of treating and helping to prevent it.² Knowing what type of pimple or pimples you have can help you find the right acne treatment for you. 

• Whiteheads and blackheads are comedones. They are pores that are blocked with sebum and dead skin cells.

• Papules and pustules are both inflammatory acne lesions. Papules are small red bumps, and pustules are filled with pus. 

• Nodules are hard inflammatory acne lesions that are deep in the skin.

• Cysts are pus-filled inflammatory acne lesions. They may be painful and can lead to scarring.

What are some common causes of cystic acne on the back?

If you’re experiencing back acne and wondering if it has a specific cause, here are a few scenarios that can increase your chances of back breakouts.

• Tight workout clothes. If you wear close-fitting clothes when working out, friction combined with sweat can contribute to acne breakouts.³

• Sports gear. Like tight workout clothes, if you use athletic equipment (football shoulder pads, for example) that frequently rubs your back, friction and sweat can also contribute to breakouts.

• Harsh products. This might sound counterintuitive, but if your attempts to zap blemishes involve using products with potent active ingredients, they may irritate your skin. Irritated skin is more likely to break out.⁴

• Comedogenic ingredients. Products with comedogenic ingredients can clog your pores, leading to blemishes. These often unassuming culprits could be lurking in your body wash, skincare or haircare products. Be sure to look for products that are labeled non-comedogenic to help prevent back acne.⁵

• Hormones. Your hormones can contribute to your breakouts. Excess androgens, a type of hormone, for instance, have been linked to acne. Hormonal fluctuations either around puberty or with menstrual cycles can contribute to acne flare-ups.⁶

• Genetics. You might be breaking out due to your family history. If that’s the case, don’t panic; many acne treatments are still effective.⁷

• Stress. Stress isn’t a direct cause of acne, but it can indirectly contribute to breakouts.⁸ We understand that you can’t help getting stressed every now and then, but remember to prioritize your self-care. That could look like going on a walk, taking deep breaths, or regularly pausing in a quiet moment to enjoy your favorite tea, all in the effort of keeping stress at bay.

How can you help prevent cystic back acne?

Cystic acne isn’t always the easiest to treat, and it can come with a greater risk of scarring compared to other types of acne. But if you want to prevent future breakouts, there are some concrete steps you can take that may help prevent cystic acne on your back. Let’s look at how to get rid of cystic acne on the back and keep future breakouts away in general.

1. Target body acne with body acne-fighting products. The Curology acne body wash is designed to clear pores and help treat and prevent acne. The best part? You can seamlessly work it into your body care routine by using it when you shower. We also recommend zinc pyrithione soap because it helps get rid of that acne-causing pityrosporum fungus that lives on the skin. Just make sure you give the zinc time to sink into your skin by leaving the soap suds on your skin for a minute before rinsing it off.

2. Cut out the sweaty workout clothes. Working up a sweat is great for the body, but don’t let tight, sweaty clothes linger on your skin for too long afterward. Once you finish your workout, remember to remove your gear and wash your skin as soon as possible to help keep your pores clear. 

3. Use non-comedogenic products. Remember to check your bath and skincare products—body washes, shampoos, body lotions—for pore-clogging ingredients and switch to non-comedogenic products if necessary.

4. Opt for gentle products. If you’re using products with harsh active ingredients to treat and help prevent cystic acne, they could actually be irritating your skin and contributing to your breakouts instead. 

5. Remember to moisturize. If you’re using an acne body wash or topical acne treatment, be sure to replenish and moisturize your skin. Find a great non-comedogenic moisturizer to add to your routine to keep your skin happy. 

6. Speak with a professional. Your medical provider may be able to offer topical or oral prescription medications that are stronger than over-the-counter treatments to help fight cystic back acne. 

Here are a few prescription options a medical provider may prescribe or recommend.

• Isotretinoin. Isotretinoin is an oral medication, formerly called Accutane, often used to treat severe cystic acne.⁹

• Spironolactone. This oral medication can be used to treat hormonal acne.

• Oral contraceptives. Oral contraceptives may be prescribed to alleviate hormonal acne.

• Oral antibiotics. Oral antibiotics are another treatment option commonly used to address persistent breakouts. 

• Steroid injections. If you have a particularly inflamed cyst, a medical professional may use a steroid injection to help reduce inflammation.¹⁰

The simple solution

Cystic acne on the back—or anywhere for that matter—can be frustrating, but remember, acne is very common and affects adults as well as adolescents. The good news is plenty of treatment options are available, so it’s just a matter of finding the one that works best for your unique skin. That’s where Curology comes in!

When it comes to skincare, Curology has your back—literally. With Curology, you get custom skincare products delivered right to your door. Curology members are paired with one of our licensed dermatology providers to help guide you on your skincare journey. We’re here to make skincare simple and effective. 

Get your personalized skincare routine with Curology

Subject to consultation. 30-day trial. Just cover $4.95 in S&H.

To try Curology, just take a quick skin quiz and snap a few selfies to get paired with a dermatology provider. We’ll take a look at your skin and, if Curology is right for you, send a Custom Formula with a mix of active ingredients chosen for your unique skin directly to your door—for free* (you’ll just cover $4.95 for shipping and handling), and you can try any of our recommended skincare products at no extra cost. As an online skincare service, we’re all about making medical-grade skincare accessible to everyone, no matter where you call home. 

FAQs

What causes cystic acne on the back?

Factors that contribute to breakouts include:

1. Excess oil production. Overproduction of sebum is one factor that can lead to clogged pores and acne.

2. Dead skin cells. Excess dead skin cells can combine with sebum in hair follicles, which can also lead to clogged pores and acne.

3. Bacteria. C. acnes, the bacteria that contributes to acne, thrives in the excess sebum and leads to inflammation when the body’s immune system reacts to fight off the bacteria.

What are some common causes of cystic acne on the back?

• Tight workout clothes. Friction combined with sweat can contribute to acne breakouts.

• Sports gear. Like tight workout clothes, that frequently rub your back, friction and sweat can also contribute to breakouts.

• Harsh products. Using products with potent active ingredients may irritate your skin.

• Comedogenic ingredients. Products with comedogenic ingredients can clog your pores, leading to blemishes.

• Hormones. Your hormones can contribute to your breakouts. Excess androgens, a type of hormone, for instance, have been linked to acne.

• Genetics. You might be breaking out due to your family history. If that’s the case, don’t panic; many acne treatments are still effective.

• Stress. Stress isn’t a direct cause of acne, but it can indirectly contribute to breakouts. Remember to prioritize your self-care.

How can you help prevent cystic back acne?

1. Target body acne with body acne-fighting products. The Curology acne body wash is designed to clear pores and help treat and prevent acne. We also recommend zinc pyrithione soap because it helps get rid of that acne-causing pityrosporum fungus.

2. Cut out the sweaty workout clothes. Don’t let tight, sweaty clothes linger on your skin for too long afterward.

3. Use non-comedogenic products. Remember to check your bath and skincare products for pore-clogging ingredients and switch to non-comedogenic products if necessary.

4. Opt for gentle products. If you’re using products with harsh active ingredients to treat and help prevent cystic acne, they could be contributing to your breakouts instead. 

5. Remember to moisturize. If you’re using an acne body wash or topical acne treatment, be sure to replenish and moisturize your skin.

6. Speak with a professional. Your medical provider may be able to offer topical or oral prescription medications.

• • •

P.S. We did the research so you don’t have to:

1. Sutaria, A. H., et al. Acne Vulgaris. In StatPearls. StatPearls Publishing. (2022).

2. Cleveland Clinic. Acne. (2020, September 1).

3. Mills, O. H., Jr, & Kligman, A. Acne mechanica. Archives of dermatology. (April 1975).

4. American Academy of Dermatology.10 skin care habits that can worsen acne.(n.d.).

5. American Academy of Dermatology.10 skin care habits that can worsen acne. Ibid.

6. Elsaie M. L. Hormonal treatment of acne vulgaris: an update. Clinical, cosmetic and investigational dermatology. (2016).

7. Di Landro A, et al. Family history, body mass index, selected dietary factors, menstrual history, and risk of moderate to severe acne in adolescents and young adults. J Am Acad Dermatol. ( December 2012)

8. Cleveland Clinic. Acne. Ibid.

9. Zaenglein, A. L., et al. Guidelines of care for the management of acne vulgaris. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. (2016).

10. Cleveland Clinic. Acne. Ibid.

* Subject to consultation. Subscription is required. Results may vary.

• • •

Our medical review process: We’re here to tell you what we know. That’s why our information is evidence-based and fact-checked by medical experts. Still, everyone’s skin is unique—the best way to get advice is to talk to your healthcare provider.

Body Acne

Written by

Curology Team

Medically reviewed by

Allison Buckley, NP-C

How To Treat Back Acne With Ayurvedic Solutions? – Vedix

Do you know that your face is not the only place where you can develop acne? While acne can affect any part of your body that has hair follicles and sebum glands, the most commonly affected site is the back, after the face.

“Acne on the back is referred to as ‘bacne’, which includes any form of acne starting from blackheads to nodules. It’s common among those who have facial acne,” says Dr. Zeel Gandhi, Chief Ayurvedic Doctor at Vedix.

In this article, let’s understand what causes back acne and how you can treat it.

Highlights:

• What Does Back Acne Mean?
• What Does Back Acne Look Like?
• What Is Back Acne A Sign Of?
• What Causes Back Acne?
• How To Get Rid Of Back Acne?
• Tips To Prevent Back Acne
• What Are The Risk Factors For Developing Back Acne?
• When To See A Dermatologist For Back Acne?

What Does Back Acne Mean?

As the name suggests, back acne means acne breakout on the back area of your body. Similar to your facial skin, your back skin too contains millions of follicles connected to millions of sebaceous glands [1] that secrete sebum. When these follicles or skin pores are filled with sebum trapping in dead skin, sweat and bacteria, it leads to inflammation and acne breakout on your back.

“The upper back area has a large number of sweat glands but lacks proper air circulation as it gets covered by our clothes. Hence, the upper back area is more prone to acne breakouts caused by the buildup of sweat and sebum in skin pores when compared to the lower back area,” says Dr. Zeel.

What Does Back Acne Look Like?

• The back acne can be in the form of blackheads which appear as open comedones with a dark brown or black surface on the top.
• The whiteheads formed on your back look like small and closed white-coloured domes.
• Papules formed on your back may appear as red, painful bumps. When these papules develop pus, you can notice a white tip on those bumps which are called pustules.
• Sometimes, your back may also develop cysts that appear as large, painful, pus-filled bumps.
• Your back area is the most common area for nodules which are hard, enclosed, painful lumps beneath your skin.

Back acne indicates the hyperactivity of your sebaceous glands which leads to excess production of sebum. It also is a sign of poor personal hygiene that eventually leads to the accumulation of sweat and grime along with dead skin in your skin pores.

What Causes Back Acne?

As per Ayurveda, imbalances in any of the three doshas: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha can lead to skin disease. Acne on the back is primarily caused due to aggravated Pitta and Kapha doshas in your body.

Below, we have listed down the different factors that contribute to dosha imbalances in your body, thus leading to acne formation on the back.

• Genetics
• Stress
• Excessive intake of gluten and carbohydrate-rich foods [2] such as breads, pastas, sugars, potato chips, dairy products, soft drinks and other junk foods.
• Hormonal fluctuations and imbalances occurring during adolescence, menstruation or pregnancy.
• Excessive sweating caused due to humid/hot weather or vigorous physical activity or wearing tight and synthetic fabrics during your workouts.
• Certain medications such as antidepressants [3].
• Lack of proper hygiene, not cleaning the back region properly while taking a bath.
• Not taking a shower post your workout sessions.
• Using uncleaned towels, clothes or gym equipment that comes in direct contact with your back.

How To Get Rid Of Back Acne?

1. Ayurvedic Methods

A. Herbal Treatments

• Doing self-abhyanga with neem oil infused in any carrier oil such as coconut or jojoba oil can help in controlling aggravated Pitta and Kapha doshas in your skin. However, use a little amount of oil for abhyanga when you have pus-filled pimples or cystic acne on your back.
• Use herbal body cleansers made of neem, turmeric, manjistha, sandalwood, etc. to cleanse your body, especially your back area.
• You can use triphala powder or coriander powder blended with honey as an effective and gentle exfoliator when you have acne on the back. However, exfoliate your skin, not more than twice or thrice a week.
• Using any herbal moisturizer that contains aloe vera, gotukola, amla, etc. twice a day can give better results.
• Apply herbal packs made of turmeric [4], gotukola, neem, and manjistha powders as spot treatments on your back acne twice a week.

Vedix Tip: Use multani mitti paste as an effective spot treatment for pus-filled acne on your back.

B. Dosha Balancing Diet

• Have a glass of warm herbal tea made of herbs such as amla, trikatu churna, or triphala churna first thing in the morning.
• Include plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables such as apples, papayas, pomegranates, pears, pineapples, leafy greens, squash, okra, gourds, cabbage, peas, cauliflower, lettuce, mushrooms, etc. in your diet. These will help supply all the essential nutrients to your skin.

• Season your meals with herbs such as cardamom, cinnamon, cumin, fenugreek, garlic, fennel, mint, coriander, turmeric, etc. regularly.
• Add moong dal, soybeans, green beans, etc. in your diet to fulfill your protein requirements. Minimize intake of meat.
• Drink a glass of buttermilk after your lunch.
• Stay away from a Pitta-Kapha aggravating diet that contains food high in fats, oily, excessively sweet, salty, sour, hot and spicy.
• Avoid dairy products, processed sugars, soft drinks, baked foods, white flour, fast foods and all the other types of junk foods. Include hard-boiled eggs in your diet.
• Don’t do any extreme crash diets as they might affect your overall health over time. Instead, replace junk food intake with healthy meals that are cooked at home.
• Drink water in adequate amounts to keep yourself hydrated. Also, drink water half an hour before or after your meals but not while you eat.
• Devote a fixed time for your meals every day and always have your food in a quiet corner with good ventilation.
• Always have warm food and avoid eating stale items.

C. Regular Exercise

• Spend at least half an hour daily in some physical activity that can help boost blood circulation in your body.
• A regular exercise regimen can also boost the digestion and detoxification processes in your body which play a key role in keeping your Ayurvedic doshas in balance.
• Yoga and meditation balance your stress [5] besides controlling your aggravated emotions.
• You can also opt for activities such as hiking, forest camping, etc. in which you can spend quality time amidst nature.

2. Essential Oils

Essential oils have strong anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties that help in combating your acne problems. However, you can use essential oils on your skin by adding a few drops of any light carrier oil such as almond, jojoba, argan oil, etc.

Below are some of the effective essential oils you can use to treat your back acne:

• Tea tree oil
• Lavender oil
• Juniper oil
• Lemon or lemongrass oil
• Rosemary oil [6]
• Geranium oil
• Oregano oil
• Sandalwood oil
• Frankincense oil
• Peppermint oil

“Adding a few drops of any of these essential oils to your body cleansers can also help in controlling the acne breakouts on your back,” says Dr. Zeel.

3. Home Remedies

A. Apply raw honey on your back acne and wash it off after half an hour. Repeat it daily.

B. Apply 3% hydrogen peroxide solution on your back acne using a cotton pad and allow it to dry. Repeat it twice a day.

C. Extract juice from 4-5 garlic cloves and apply it to your back acne. After half an hour, rinse it off. Repeat it daily.

D. Dilute a spoon of apple cider vinegar by mixing it in a cup of warm water. Apply the solution on your back acne using a cotton pad. After half an hour, rinse it off. Repeat it on alternate days.

E. Add a cup of epsom salt to a tub of warm water and soak your back in it for half an hour before taking a bath. Repeat it on alternate days.

4. Other Medical Treatments

A. Topical creams that contain benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid.

B. OTC pills that have anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory activity.

C. Doctors may also prescribe birth control pills that modulate your hormone levels and Isotretinoin in case of a severe form of back acne. However, there are different side effects such as suicidal tendency, depression, anxiety, dry skin, etc. for Isotretinoin [7].

D. Skin procedures such as laser therapy, chemical peel, extraction, etc. are used to remove back acne.

Tips To Prevent Back Acne

1. Avoid wearing tight-fit clothing which makes your skin unbreathable, especially during heavy workout sessions. Choose cotton-based sports clothing instead.

2. Always take a proper bath after your sweaty workout sessions.

3. Use a non-abrasive, mild body cleanser to gently clean your back using your fingertips.

4. Stay away from harsh, heavy-oil-based or chemical-laden products such as cleansers, body sprays, etc.

5. Avoid squeezing, scrubbing or popping out your acne.

6. Avoid tanning beds and limit sun exposure on your acne-affected back region.

7. Avoid certain medications such as lithium-based drugs [8] which can interfere with your hormonal production in the body. Always, talk to your doctor before taking any such medication.

8. Avoid exerting any kind of friction and pressure on your back that might be caused by constantly using heavy backpacks or sports gear. Instead, opt for lightweight backpacks.

9. Do not repeat wearing your clothes without washing them properly, especially your sportswear.

10. Change your sheets regularly and never let dirty floors or surfaces come in contact with your back.

What Are The Risk Factors For Developing Back Acne?

1. Back acne occurs most commonly in teenagers and adults.

2. Among teenagers, men are more likely to develop back acne

3. Among adults, women are more prone to back acne.

While about 90% of teenagers and 12-14% of adults can develop acne, studies reveal that about half of them are susceptible to developing acne on the back. [9]

When To See A Dermatologist For Back Acne?

If you do not notice any significant improvement even after regular treatments for six to eight weeks, then you need to consult your dermatologist for further evaluation of your skin condition.

Important Note:

Seek your doctor’s advice before using any of the treatments mentioned in this article for back acne.

The Last Word

Even though acne breakouts on the back are easier to hide under your clothing unlike facial acne, it does not mean you can leave it untreated. This can further lead to severe acne lesions and scarring which might get difficult to treat later. Consult your doctor immediately if the condition worsens. Additionally, follow a proper Ayurvedic skincare routine, eat a balanced diet, and practice healthy lifestyle practices to keep your doshas in a balanced state which in turn will make your skin healthy and beautiful.

At Vedix, we customize an Ayurvedic skin regimen by analyzing your skin condition and dosha imbalances in your body.

Know Your Dosha Now

References

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3051853/

2. https://www.ncbi. nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4884775/

3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK459207/

4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6770633/

5. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28871928/

6. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3624774/

7. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2835909/

8. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3832562/

9. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5788264/

What to do if acne appears on the back?

The reason may be poor hygiene or environmental conditions, but in some cases, acne on the back is a reason to see a doctor.

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What to do, if…

What do these symptoms mean?

Hygiene

Skin diseases

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Why pimples appear on the back

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.

This problem can have two types of causes: external and internal. External ones are most often caused by a violation of hygiene requirements, as well as poorly matched clothes or poor ecology. Internal causes are usually associated with disruption of the endocrine system, side effects from taking medications, as well as stress and eating disorders.

External causes of acne on the back

Poor hygiene

One of the most common causes. There are especially many sebaceous glands on the skin in the area of ​​​​the shoulder blades, which is why bacteria are especially active in this area, which cause acne. If you wash this area not often enough or vice versa, too actively (if you wash off the natural fat layer from the skin, sebum will be produced at a double rate), there will be too many bacteria and acne will appear.

Unsuitable clothing

Clothes made of synthetic fabrics, as well as too tight and tight clothes, cause excessive sweating, which leads to bacteria and pimples.

Wrong care for long hair

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Long hair that is not washed often enough can also cause acne on the back. But washing your hair thoroughly can also cause acne: dirty water and shampoo dripping down your back clog pores and acne can appear.

Inappropriate skin or hair care products

As with acne on the face, cosmetics that are not suitable for you can irritate your skin and lead to acne on your back.

Internal causes of acne on the back:

Genetics

If your mom or dad had this problem, there is a good chance that you will also experience acne on the back.

Features of nutrition

One of the most common causes of acne, including on the back, is malnutrition. A diet that is too high in fatty foods, simple carbohydrates, and sugar can cause acne.

Stress

Severe emotional overload can affect the endocrine system, which in turn can lead to acne.

Diseases of internal organs

Diabetes, disorders of the liver, genitourinary system, digestive organs and endocrine system – all this can cause acne on the back. Therefore, you should definitely consult a doctor if acne bothers you for a long (more than a month) time.

Hormonal imbalance

For this reason, back acne is often experienced by teenagers during puberty. Also, due to changes in the hormonal background, acne on the back can appear in women – for example, on certain days of the cycle.

How to get rid of acne on your back

If you have acne on your back, you can try to deal with it yourself. To do this, it is worth:

• Taking a shower is a must after every physical activity, as well as at night. You can also use wet wipes with an antibacterial effect.
• Switch to antibacterial hygiene products: Dermatologists do not advise using antibacterial showers or soaps daily and regularly, but if you have acne on your back, you can temporarily switch to just such a cleanser.
• Give up hairstyles with long hair: you can do something radical and just make a short haircut, or you can switch to high hairstyles. The main thing is to minimize the contact of the hair and skin of the back.
• Switch to loose clothing made from natural fabrics: If acne is caused by skin contact with synthetic fabrics or excessive sweating due to too tight clothing, this should help.
• Review your diet: reduce the amount of light carbohydrates, sugar, fried foods.
• If all these methods do not help, you should consult a doctor: a dermatologist and an endocrinrologist.

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