Causes of pimples on the back. The Comprehensive Guide to Exfoliating Your Body and Lips for Radiant, Smooth Skin
What are the benefits of exfoliating your body and lips? How can you effectively exfoliate different areas like your lips, butt, arms, legs, and heels? Get all the answers in this in-depth guide.
The Importance of Full-Body Exfoliation
Newsflash: Exfoliation is not just for your face. Dead skin cells can and do build up all over your body. So if you want to avoid thick cracked heels, bumpy upper arms, or, yes, those cringe-worthy ingrown hairs on your butt, make sure you’re also exfoliating below the neck.
Exfoliating Your Lips
We know they live on the face, but your lips are often forgotten when it comes to exfoliation. Dry, peeling skin flakes and lipstick that looks clumpy are two common cosmetic hazards of unexfoliated lips. Dr. Cindy Bae, a dermatologist in New York City, recommends using a soft toothbrush to make small circular motions to get the job done. Just don’t be overly aggressive, as the skin on your lips is thin and easily irritated. For a fun summery alternative, the next time you drink a margarita, take the sugar from the rim and rub a little on your lips to soften things up. If you aren’t into cocktails, Bliss Fabulips Sugar Lip Scrub ($18, Ulta) will work. No matter your method, apply a thick lip balm right after exfoliating to hydrate and achieve the smoothest results.
Exfoliating Your Butt
Trapped, unexfoliated fine hairs, combined with the pressure or friction from activities like sitting in front of your computer, working out in tight clothes, or driving long distances can all lead to a bumpy butt. Dr. Deanne Robinson, assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Yale University, adds pimple prevention to the list of butt exfoliation benefits. A few times a week, put on some body exfoliating bath gloves while in the shower and wash with a gentle cleanser, such as Dove. The combo is a great way to loosen up hairs and even out texture.
Exfoliating Your Arms
Bumpy chicken skin? No thanks. Keratosis pilaris (KP), the scientific name for those annoying bumps on your upper arms or thighs, is a genetic thing — autosomal dominant, to be exact, which means you have your mom or dad to thank for it. Forty percent of us have it and most want to get rid of it. Over-exfoliation can cause your arm to look like a hot mess if you have KP, as it can leave you with red blotchy skin all over. Instead of harsh mechanical exfoliants like loofahs, try exfoliating lotions containing alpha hydroxy acids to smooth out the skin. The over-the-counter lotion Lac Hydrin ($15, CVS) is a favorite among dermatologists.
Exfoliating Your Legs
Each time you use a razor, the hairs and skin on your legs are in a prime position to become inflamed. Sometimes you’re lucky and sometimes you aren’t. And using an exfoliating shave gel can be the permanent solution to ending that oh-so bothersome, razor bump situation. When you shave, use a 1- to 2-blade razor — those drugstore brands with a bazillion blades are terrible for your skin, as they can create trauma to the hair follicle, leaving it more likely to get red and irritated. Another tip: Go with the grain of the hair, not against it. Also, you can use a glycolic wash — Glytone Mild Gel Wash ($32, Dermstore) is a great choice — instead of shaving cream for a smoother shave.
Exfoliating Your Heels
As you gear up for summer, it’s often evident that your heels have taken the biggest hit during a long winter. “But routinely exfoliating your feet and heels can prevent skin buildup and painful cracks or fissures,” says Robinson. Before hitting the sack, lube up with a urea-based cream to help thin out thick skin. Ask your local pharmacist to guide you toward any generic brand in the drugstore. For added oomph, put on a pair socks over it to ensure you’ll wake up with silky, sandal-ready feet. (This works great for the elbows too — minus the socks, of course.) Better yet, next time you’re hanging at the beach, take a handful of sand plus a bit of ocean water and massage away your dead skin — this DIY trick can work wonders.
The Bottom Line
Exfoliation is crucial for maintaining healthy, smooth skin all over your body, not just your face. By targeting key problem areas like your lips, butt, arms, legs, and heels, you can achieve a radiant, youthful glow from head to toe. Remember to be gentle and use the right products and techniques for each area to avoid irritation or over-exfoliation. With a little bit of diligence, you can say goodbye to rough, bumpy skin for good.
How to Exfoliate Your Body and Lips
Newsflash: Exfoliation is not just for your face. Dead skin cells can and do build up all over your body. So if you want to avoid thick cracked heels, bumpy upper arms, or, yes, those cringe-worthy ingrown hairs on your butt, make sure you’re also exfoliating below the neck.
1. Lips
We know they live on the face, but your lips are often forgotten when it comes to exfoliation. Dry, peeling skin flakes and lipstick that looks clumpy are two common cosmetic hazards of unexfoliated lips.
Try This: Dr. Cindy Bae, a dermatologist in New York City, recommends using a soft toothbrush to make small circular motions to get the job done. Just don’t be overly aggressive, as the skin on your lips is thin and easily irritated. For a fun summery alternative, the next time you drink a margarita, take the sugar from the rim and rub a little on your lips to soften things up. If you aren’t into cocktails, Bliss Fabulips Sugar Lip Scrub ($18, Ulta) will work. No matter your method, apply a thick lip balm right after exfoliating to hydrate and achieve the smoothest results.
2. Butt
Trapped, unexfoliated fine hairs, combined with the pressure or friction from activities like sitting in front of your computer, working out in tight clothes, or driving long distances can all lead to a bumpy butt. Dr. Deanne Robinson, assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Yale University, adds pimple prevention to the list of butt exfoliation benefits.
Try This: A few times a week, put on some body exfoliating bath gloves while in the shower and wash with a gentle cleanser, such as Dove. The combo is a great way to loosen up hairs and even out texture.
3. Arms
Bumpy chicken skin? No thanks. Keratosis pilaris (KP), the scientific name for those annoying bumps on your upper arms or thighs, is a genetic thing — autosomal dominant, to be exact, which means you have your mom or dad to thank for it. Forty percent of us have it and most want to get rid of it.
Try This: Over-exfoliation can cause your arm to look like a hot mess if you have KP, as it can leave you with red blotchy skin all over. Instead of harsh mechanical exfoliants like loofahs, try exfoliating lotions containing alpha hydroxy acids to smooth out the skin. The over-the-counter lotion Lac Hydrin ($15, CVS) is a favorite among dermatologists.
4. Legs
Each time you use a razor, the hairs and skin on your legs are in a prime position to become inflamed. Sometimes you’re lucky and sometimes you aren’t. And using an exfoliating shave gel can be the permanent solution to ending that oh-so bothersome, razor bump situation.
Try This: When you shave, use a 1- to 2-blade razor — those drugstore brands with a bazillion blades are terrible for your skin, as they can create trauma to the hair follicle, leaving it more likely to get red and irritated. Another tip: Go with the grain of the hair, not against it. Also, you can use a glycolic wash — Glytone Mild Gel Wash ($32, Dermstore) is a great choice — instead of shaving cream for a smoother shave.
5. Heels
As you gear up for summer, it’s often evident that your heels have taken the biggest hit during a long winter. “But routinely exfoliating your feet and heels can prevent skin buildup and painful cracks or fissures,” says Robinson.
Try This: Before hitting the sack, lube up with a urea-based cream to help thin out thick skin. Ask your local pharmacist to guide you toward any generic brand in the drugstore. For added oomph, put on a pair socks over it to ensure you’ll wake up with silky, sandal-ready feet. (This works great for the elbows too — minus the socks, of course.) Better yet, next time you’re hanging at the beach, take a handful of sand plus a bit of ocean water and massage away your dead skin — this DIY trick can work wonders.
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Back Acne or ‘Bacne’: Treatment, Symptoms & Causes
Back acne, or “bacne,” is acne vulgaris on the back, usually the upper back. Acne vulgaris—or acne for short—is a skin condition that affects the pores. Pores have a hair follicle and sebaceous gland—or oil gland—at the bottom and an opening at the top. The oil—called sebum—flows up to the skin surface to moisturize the skin. As it travels upwards, it carries dead skin cells and debris with it out of the pore. Acne occurs when the oil, dead skin, and debris are trapped in the pore, forming a plug. The clogged pore can also trap bacteria, causing inflammation.
The upper back is an area with more oil glands than most other body sites. So, it’s a common place for acne to develop. Other commonly affected sites include the face, neck, chest and shoulders. Like these other sites, back acne comes in two forms.
The first type of back acne is non-inflammatory acne characterized by the following types of blemishes:
- Blackheads, which are clogged pores that remain open at the skin surface. The medical name for them is open comedones.
- Whiteheads, which are clogged pores that are closed at the skin surface. They are called closed comedones.
Back acne can also be inflammatory. This type of acne includes the following types of blemishes:
- Pimples, which are raised, tender red or pink bumps. They are called papules when they don’t have pus and a white tip. When they are pus-filled with a white tip, they are pustules.
- Nodules, which are large, solid, painful lumps deep under the skin
- Cysts, which are pus-filled nodules that don’t feel solid or hard
Acne is the most common skin condition in the United States. Nearly everyone will deal with an acne breakout during their lifetime. For some people, it remains a mild problem. For others, it can be severe. You are more likely to have a severe problem with back acne if one or both parents had a similar problem themselves.
You can get acne at any age or stage of life. However, the most common time to experience acne, including back acne, is during adolescence and young adulthood. About 80% of people between ages 11 and 30 will have an acne breakout. Researchers aren’t entirely sure why this happens. It’s likely related to changing hormone levels. Other potential causes of back acne include excess oil production and over-sensitivity to skin bacteria.
Mild to moderate back acne usually responds to over-the-counter (OTC) treatments. This includes benzoyl peroxide and mild exfoliants. Severe cases, including nodular and cystic back acne, require the care of a dermatologist. Prescription medicines are usually necessary to control this type of acne.
Back acne can be more than a cosmetic problem. The breakouts and possible scarring can cause emotional problems and self-consciousness. Effectively treating back acne early can help prevent these complications.
How to Get Rid of Back and Shoulder Acne: Treatments and Causes
Acne can be frustrating to deal with in itself, but back and shoulder acne are particularly irritating. This type of acne caused by bra straps, tight-fitted clothing, and more can seem impossible to avoid.
“Tight clothing mixed with friction and excess moisture, such as sweat, can lead to the development of acne,” says Jeremy Fenton, MD, of Schweiger Dermatology Group in NYC. “The combination of friction, heat, and covered skin may result in the development of a form of acne called acne mechanica. The friction can irritate the skin and disrupt the surface, which can clog the pores with dead skin cells and lead to inflammation.” That said, there’s more than one cause in question, and as far as back and shoulder acne treatments go, it’s all about knowing the root cause of your breakouts. If you’re struggling with bacne, we’re here to fill you in on everything from causes to prevention to treatment.
Below, dermatologists share their best tips for back and shoulder acne.
Types of Back Acne
- Pustules: A layer of skin covering pus that lives under the skin caused by the buildup of oils, dirt, and impurities.
- Papules: Similar to pustules, papules are a raised area of skin that does not have pus.
- Cystic acne: Breakouts that occur deep underneath the skin and are often red, swollen, and painful.
- Whiteheads: Pores that are clogged with a buildup of dirt, oils, and dead skin cells but are covered by a thin layer of skin.
- Blackheads: Clogged pores that are dark in color due to dirt, oils, and buildup coming into contact with the air.
Causes and Prevention of Back Acne
- Hormones: A common cause is puberty or any hormonal change or a familial genetic predisposition.
- Perspiration: Pressure on the back combined with excessive sweating, poor hygiene, and closed coverage of the skin without “breathing,” can result in back acne.
- Bacteria: High growth levels of bacteria on the skin (cutibacterium acnes) can be a culprit, which can occur on the face or body.
- Steroids: Another force at work could be steroid usage. With increased androgen levels from steroids, the sebaceous glands on the skin secrete more oils. This is most common on the back and shoulders or chest than the face.
Treatment
Cleanse and exfoliate regularly.
Aquis
Exfoliating Back Scrubber
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Sure, you probably know that cleansing and exfoliating your skin is an important part of avoiding breakouts, but doing so for your back and shoulder is easier said than done. “Cleansing, exfoliating, treating, and hydrating the area is key, which is more difficult to do alone and reach all the areas unless you work for Cirque du Soleil,” says Ava Shamban, MD, cosmetic celebrity dermatologist and cofounder of Skin Five.
To help make cleansing your back easier, she recommends using a back cleansing tool, like a microfiber band or loofah with a long handle, so you can do your best to get to those areas and effectively cleanse and exfoliate regularly but gently. Her pick? Aquis’ Exfoliating Back Scrubber, which is two-sided for cleansing and exfoliating in one tool. “It reaches corner to corner and helps get the entire surface area of the back.”
Change your diet.
Enrique Díaz / 7cero / Getty Images
It’s no secret that what you eat can affect your body and your skin. Shamban explains that lifestyle changes like reducing stress and improving your nutrition can help with shoulder and back acne, along with getting a proper night’s rest. “Cutting out sugar and highly processed foods and eating a more plant-based diet are all good preventative measures,” she says. Try eliminating overly processed snacks from your normal routine. Instead, check the ingredient label and try to find options with five ingredients or fewer. Or, even better, stick with whole foods, like a piece of fruit or nuts when you feel like munching.
Avoid sitting in gym clothes.
Boris Jovanovic / Getty Images
While it may be tempting to leave your workout gear on for the day (especially if you’re working from home), it’s good to take your gym clothes off immediately.
“The most important treatment is to avoid leaving moist clothing pressed against the skin for long periods of time and to promptly remove clothing and shower immediately after exercise,” says Jessica Weiser, MD, of Weiser Skin MD.
Shamban agrees, adding that wearing natural fibers that breathe, like cotton and silk, and eliminating tight-fitting lycra and spandex on the area until it is clear helps too.
If you don’t think you’ll have the opportunity to change right away, you can help prevent the buildup of sweat by applying a baby powder, like Johnson’s Baby Powder ($2), prior to working out. This will help absorb sweat as you produce it, rather than letting the moisture sit on your skin. You should also keep a no-rinse cleansing option with you to help remove sweat when you’re in a pinch. Try ShowerPill’s The Body Wipe ($10).
Don’t overdo it.
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Cleansing is important, but it’s equally important to avoid over-cleansing, which can strip or dry the area. “This can exacerbate the sebaceous glands into overdrive and the cycle continues,” Shamban explains. “Over-treating the area can cause irritation and inflammation.”
While you should cleanse daily with a gentle cleansing option (Murad’s Acne Body Wash, $44, is perfect since it’s specifically formulated to treat body breakouts without over-drying your skin), exfoliation should be done less frequently. “Gently exfoliating the skin two to three times a week can help encourage skin turnover and decrease comedone [blemish] formation,” says Weiser.
Use salicylic acid.
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Eminence Acne Advanced Cleansing Foam
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To effectively cleanse the area, Shamban recommends looking for options that are formulated with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, which are both key ingredients for keeping acne at bay. Give her Acne Cleansing Foam a try, which contains time-released encapsulated salicylic acid and a natural herb blend. It works to both prevent acne and unclog pores. It’s also easy to use: Simply squeeze the cleanser onto the actual scrubber to get your entire back. “I created this to be used as a body (or face) wash but specifically with this exact condition of bacne in mind. It is a common occurrence for my patients,” Shamban explains. For a thorough cleanse, you can also use an exfoliating scrub formulated with either ingredient, like Peter Thomas Roth’s Acne Face & Body Scrub ($24), which contains salicylic acid and a glycolic acid complex to help clear and prevent breakouts.
Turn to manuka honey.
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You don’t necessarily have to use a skincare product to treat your back and shoulder acne—there are natural, at-home alternatives that can work wonders as well, according to Shamban. Specifically, manuka honey. “Manuka honey is a bacne buddy. It has an antibacterial effect that can assist in cleaning and healing. It helps to balance the pH of the skin as it gently clarifies,” she explains. What makes manuka honey different from traditional honey is those antibacterial properties. It also has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits. “It has properties to gently and naturally exfoliate and slough off dead skin cells, which will keep skin and pores clean and clear.” And if you are partial to skincare products, you can use one formulated with manuka honey to reap the benefits, like Shea Moisture’s Manuka Honey & Mafura Oil Intensive Hydration Body Wash ($10).
Try treating breakouts with retinol.
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We recommend this over-the-counter retinol treatment to hydrate your skin.
Retinol, a form of vitamin A, is a popular ingredient in the skincare world that’s commonly known for its anti-aging abilities, but according to Shamban, it can also be a great treatment for back acne (not to mention acne in general). “You can get an over-the-counter retinol product, but I usually recommend having a tele-derm or in-office visit. Altreno’s Retinoid Lotion for body is highly effective to treat the area,” she says. Retinol encourages cell turnover, getting rid of dead skin cells so that younger skin cells can make their way to the surface. Oh, and that removal of dead skin cells? It prevents buildup that can result in clogged pores, which is why it’s a great treatment option for acne. It also helps to improve skin texture and tone. That said, if you can’t get to the dermatologist, we’re fans of this option from Paula’s Choice.
How to Get Rid Of Back Acne
Those who have acne will know that the pesky little whiteheads, cystic spot eruptions and blackheads aren’t usually contained to your face.
From bacne (acne on your back) to buttne (acne on your backside – yep, it’s a thing) body spots can be pretty rubbish to deal with.
Everything You Need To Know About Treating Back Acne
What causes back acne?
We may be used to be discussing acne on our faces but on our backs is a different story. There are a range of reasons you might be suffering from the skin condition.
‘Back acne is typically caused by a build up of oils and dead skin cells in and around pores. The pores can become clogged and attract bacteria which thrives. This causes leads to an inflammatory response of the skin causing pustules and bumps,’ explains Dr Adwoa Danso, NHS GP Doctor.
If you do suffer from back acne, you’ll have likely noticed it starting around the time your hormones kick in. ‘Back acne onset predominantly starts from puberty and it tends to effect boys and men more. The main areas being upper back, lower back and shoulders,’ says Dr Vanita Rattan.
Because it’s linked to our hormones, some might be more prone to the condition than others. ‘Individuals with oily skin or suffer with hormonal disorders like polycystic ovarian syndrome are more prone to acne,’ believes Dr Danso.
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How do you get rid of back acne??
As debilitating as body acne can be (we feel you), you don’t have to swerve plans or cover up completely, because ELLE has enlisted one of the best dermatologists in the business to help banish the breakouts once and for all. Here’s how to get rid of back acne or body acne once and for all.
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How To Get Rid Of Back Acne
1. Swap Out Your Current Body Wash
That ultra-creamy, coconut-scented shower gel may feel seriously luxe, but if it doesn’t contain zit-zapping ingredients such as salicylic acid (a BHA that exfoliates the skin’s surface layer and unblocks pores of sebum and dead skin), glycolic acid (an AHA that dissolves the upper layer of dead skin cells to prevent spots and to blur red marks left behind by acne), and lactic acid (also an AHA with the same skin-smoothing, spot-preventing credentials as glycolic acid, just a little gentler on skin), then it might not be doing your body acne any good.
‘Acids like these prevent dead skin cells from building up and blocking your pores,’ explains London-based consultant dermatologist, Dr. Justine Kluk. ‘And remember, cleanse your skin thoroughly in the shower every day.’
ELLE Recommends…
– Mario Badescu AHA Botanical Body Soap – £7.95 SHOP NOW
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Alpha hydroxy acids in this foaming shower gel chip away at the mixture of dead skin cells and sebum responsible for spots. It’s absolutely brilliant at clearing up breakouts on the back, chest, shoulders and arms and doesn’t dry skin out.
For those with more sensitive skin, go for the anti-inflammatory Mario Badescu Azulene Body Soap which is formulated to soothe irritation.
– Mario Badescu Azulene Body Soap – £7.95 SHOP NOW
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2. Shower Immediately After A Workout
‘The bacteria responsible for causing acne thrive on sweaty skin,’ explains Dr. Kluk. ‘It’s important to remove your gym clothes and shower as soon as possible after a workout.’
Even if you haven’t had a hard core work out, cleaning off any sweat is key. ‘Shower immediately after sweating. Acne isn’t related to cleanliness but we certainly know that sweat can aggravate the skin. Hair shampoos and conditioners can leave residue on your back which can clog pores and cause bacne. Take extra care when rinsing hair and gently wash the back after hair washing ‘ says Dr Danso.
That means no sitting on the end of your bed, scrolling through Instagram, trying to muster up the energy to jump in. We’re talking ASAP, people.
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3. Use A Scrub Pre-Shower
‘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,’ advises Dr. Kluk. ‘But, always be gentle and don’t rub your skin raw as this can increase inflammation.’ Not cute.
ELLE recommends…
– Ameliorate Skin Smoothing Body Polish – £18 SHOP NOW
This expert-approved scrub combines chemical exfoliators (such as lactic acid) with physical exfoliators (micro-dermabrasion granules) to deliver a double-pronged attack on the oil, dead skin and grime that can cause breakouts. Massage gently into damp skin before showering.
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4. Choose The Right Body Moisturiser
You don’t have to give up the moisturiser to keep breakouts at arms length – just make sure you choose the right one – that means ditching the thick creams.
‘Applying a moisturiser will soothe and repair your skin barrier, but make sure that any products you leave on your skin are labelled ‘non-comedogenic,’ advises Dr. Kluk. ‘This means that they won’t clog your pores.’
It’s also important to be aware of oils. ‘Some oil based products can cause acne, switching to ‘lighter’ creams is beneficial. Benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, glycolic acid containing products are recommended treatments,’ explains Dr Danso.
ELLE Recommends…
– CeraVe Moisturising Lotion – £9.50 SHOP NOW
Non-comedogenic (which means it won’t clog your pores) and hypoallergenic (making it perfect for those with sensitive skin), this silky, ultra-light, fragrance-free lotion absorbs in seconds and leaves skin feeling insanely smooth and hydrated, and it’s all down to a duo of cell-building ceramides and hydrating hyaluronic acid. We love.
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– Ameliorate Transforming Body Lotion – £24 SHOP NOW
A daily slathering of this dermatologist-approved lotion works wonders to banish spots on limbs, shoulders and chest thanks to the AHAs. It also blasts ingrown hairs and keratosis pilaris, AKA chicken skin – our arms have never felt smoother.
Ameliorate
5. Use A Topical Treatment Instead Of Picking
As tempting as it may be to pretend you’re Dr. Pimple Popper, try and avoid picking when it comes to body acne.
‘Whatever you do, don’t pick, squeeze or scratch your spots,’ says Dr. Kluk. ‘This can introduce infection and lead to scarring. Instead, apply a benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid gel to juicy spots.’
Picking nearly always leads to pigmentation too, which is stubborn to get rid of. ‘For skin of colour the main long term issue is the pigmentation that’s left behind, this is why it’s essential for skin of colour to break the acne cycle early,’ advises Dr Rattan.
You can buy benzoyl peroxide creams, such as Acnecide and Duac, over the counter. They kill bacteria that leads to acne, but do have a tendency to dry the skin out. If that puts you off…
ELLE Recommends…
– Malin + Goetz Salicylic Acid Gel – £19 SHOP NOW
This gel cools raging spots and redness without making skin feel taut, uncomfortable or turning it flaky and chalky. A dab is all you need, just be sure to wait for it to dry before pulling your clothes on.
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– Mario Badescu Glycolic Acid Toner – £28 SHOP NOW
Formulated with 2% Glycolic Acid, Grapefruit Extract and Aloe Gel, this cooling toner gently exfoliates, turfing sebum and dead cells out of pores to leave skin brighter and clearer.
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6. Carry Spare Clothing
We know that excessive sweat and bacteria can lead to blocked pores, especially bacne, so, Dr. Kluk suggests carrying a spare, clean top with you if you tend to perspire more in warmer weather.
‘It’s also best to wash underwear, like your bra, after every wear,’ she adds.
It’s also worth switching up tighter clothing for a larger size too. ‘Wear loose fitting clothes as you don’t want to irritate the sensitive and inflamed skin,’ says Dr Rattan.
Got it.
7. Visit A Dermatologist
‘If you’ve tried all of these things and are still struggling to get on top of your breakouts or are aware of developing scars, see a dermatologist who can advise you on prescription treatment,’ advises Dr. Kluk.
Oral prescriptions are a great option and include: Spironolactone, which has anti-androgen effects to block male hormone testosterone and excessive oil production in female acne sufferers and Isotretinoin AKA Roaccutane – a vitamin A-derived oral medication, which suppresses excess oil production, kills acne bacteria and helps shed dead skin cells, preventing blocked pores.
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9 Causes for Bumps on Back | What You Need to Know
What causes back bumps?
Back structure
A back bump is usually the result of an underlying structure in the back growing irregularly. There are various specific structures within the back, including the following.
- Nerves: The back is home to the spinal cord, which is the body’s central support structure and relay center for messages going to and from the body and brain. The nerves that originate in the spinal column provide sensation and allow movement for different parts of the body.
- Muscles: There are many muscles in the back, both superficial and deep. These muscles allow you to bend, twist, stand, and lift. Extensor muscles help hold the body upright, flexor muscles help you bend, and oblique muscles help you rotate.
- Fat: There is a layer of fatty tissue under the skin that stores energy, regulates the body’s temperature, and serves as a protective cushion.
- Lymphatics: The lymphatic system helps rid the body of waste and toxins. It includes a network of tissues and structures both in the body and underneath the skin, such as lymph nodes, that play an important role in fighting off infections.
- Skin: It may seem obvious, but the skin is an important organ to the entire body and is often the most common cause of bumps and lumps on the skin. All three layers of the skin — the epidermis, the dermis, and the subcutaneous layer — can result in bumps. Hair follicles within the skin can also cause bumps in the back.
Neurologic causes
The spinal cord has many nerves protected by a membranous sheath, called the dura, as well as a column of bones, known as the vertebrae. Bumps or masses can arise from any of the structures within this system — including the dura — resulting in a bump you may be able to visibly feel and see in the back. These bumps or masses can either be benign or malignant and require follow-up with a healthcare professional.
- Intramedullary: This term can be translated as “in the membrane” and refers to growths from the cells within the spinal cord itself.
- Extramedullary: This term can be translated as “outside the membrane” and refers to growths from any of the structures outside of the spinal cord, including the nerves that extend from the canal, the bones, and the dura itself.
Skin/Soft tissue causes
A back bump may be related to the skin or soft tissue.
- Dermatologic: There are many dermatologic conditions that can result in bumps in the back. For example, melanoma is a dangerous form of skin cancer that can occur on any part of the body. It may start as a small blemish or point on the skin that can grow and become hard and discolored in the process.
- Soft tissue: Growths can arise from any of the tissues that support and surround the different parts of the body such as the muscles, fat tendons, and even lining of the joints. Growths of the fat and soft tissue of the skin are known as lipomas and often present as soft, round, or oval painless nodules. They most commonly occur on the back and upper extremities but can appear in other locations.
Lymphatic causes
The lymph nodes contain immune cells for fighting infection and filtering harmful substances from the body. When the nodes become infected, they can swell and result in palpable lumps. If swollen lymph nodes are causing the lump in your back, you may also experience tenderness and a fever as well.
Malignant causes
In general, any growth is the result of cells dividing and growing uncontrollably. Sometimes there is a genetic mutation in DNA or a specific protein or failure in an important checkpoint. These abnormal cells accumulate to form a noticeable lump. A lump (also known as a tumor) can be benign; however, if this lump grows and invades the body, it is considered malignant. A back bump may be the result of a growth in the back itself or the result of a cancerous process spreading from another organ/body part. This process is known as metastasis.
Skin cyst
A cyst is a small sac or lump, filled with fluid, air, fat, or other material, that begins to grow somewhere in the body for no apparent reason. A skin cyst is one that forms just beneath the skin.
It’s believed that skin cysts form around trapped keratin cells – the cells that form the relatively tough outer layer of the skin.
These cysts are not contagious.
Anyone can get a skin cyst, but they are most common in those who are over age 18, have acne, or have injured the skin.
Symptoms include the appearance of a small, rounded lump under the skin. Cysts are normally painless unless infected, when they will be reddened and sore and contain pus.
Diagnosis is made through physical examination. A small cyst can be left alone, though if it is unsightly or large enough to interfere with movement it can be removed in a simple procedure done in a doctor’s office. An infected cyst must be treated so that the infection does not spread.
Rarity: Common
Top Symptoms: skin-colored armpit bump, marble sized armpit lump, small armpit lump
Symptoms that always occur with skin cyst: skin-colored armpit bump
Urgency: Wait and watch
Lipoma
Lipoma is a word that translates as “fatty tumor,” but a lipoma is not cancer. It is simply a growth of fat between the muscle layer and the skin above it.
The exact cause is not known. The condition does run in families and is associated with other unusual syndromes such as adiposis dolorosa, which is similar. Lipomas most often appear after age 40.
Symptoms include a soft, easily moveable lump beneath the skin, about two inches across. A lipoma is painless unless its growth is irritating the nerves around it. They are most often found on the back, neck, and abdomen, and sometimes the arms and upper legs.
It is a good idea to have any new or unusual growth checked by a medical provider, just to make certain it is benign.
Diagnosis is made through physical examination, biopsy, and imaging such as ultrasound or CT scan.
Most of the time, treatment is not necessary unless the lipoma is unsightly or is interfering with other structures. It can be removed through surgery or liposuction.
Rarity: Uncommon
Top Symptoms: skin-colored groin bump, marble sized groin lump, small groin lump
Symptoms that always occur with lipoma: skin-colored groin bump
Urgency: Wait and watch
Skin abscess
A skin abscess is a large pocket of pus that has formed just beneath the skin. It is caused by bacteria getting under the skin, usually through a small cut or scratch, and beginning to multiply. The body fights the invasion with white blood cells, which kill some of the infected tissue but form pus within the cavity that remains.
Symptoms include a large, red, swollen, painful lump of pus anywhere on the body beneath the skin. There may be fever, chills, and body aches from the infection.
If not treated, there is the risk of an abscess enlarging, spreading, and causing serious illness.
Diagnosis is made through physical examination.
A small abscess may heal on its own, through the body’s immune system. But some will need to be drained or lanced in a medical provider’s office so that the pus can be cleaned out. Antibiotics are usually prescribed.
Keeping the skin clean, and using only clean clothes and towels, will help to make sure that the abscess does not recur.
Rarity: Common
Top Symptoms: rash with bumps or blisters, red rash, red skin bump larger than 1/2 cm in diameter, pus-filled rash, rash
Symptoms that always occur with skin abscess: rash with bumps or blisters
Urgency: Primary care doctor
Basal cell carcinoma
Basal cell carcinoma is a slow-growing form of skin cancer. Skin cancer falls into two major groups: Non-melanoma and melanoma. Basal cell carcinoma is a type of non-melanoma skin cancer.
Rarity: Uncommon
Top Symptoms: facial skin changes, pink or red facial bump, small facial lump, painless facial bump, growing facial lump
Urgency: Primary care doctor
Wart
Warts, also called common warts or verrucae, are small, rough, rounded growths on the top layer of the skin. They may appear alone or in clusters. Common warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and are contagious through direct contact. They may spread from one place on the body to another simply through touch.
Boil (furuncle)
A furuncle, also called a boil, is infection of a hair follicle. The infection forms under the skin at the root of the hair and may occur anywhere on the body.
The infection is caused by bacteria, most often Staphylococcus aureus or “staph.” Irritation caused by clothes or anything else rubbing the skin can cause the skin to break down and allow bacteria to enter.
Staph bacteria are found everywhere. Frequent and thorough handwashing, and otherwise maintaining cleanliness, will help to prevent its spread.
Most susceptible are those with a weakened immune system; diabetes; and other skin infections.
Symptoms include a single bump under the skin that is swollen, painful, and red, and contains pus.
It is important to treat the boil, since infection can spread into the bloodstream and travel throughout the body.
Diagnosis is made through physical examination and sometimes fluid sample from the boil.
Treatment may involve incision and drainage of the infection, followed by creams to apply to the site of the boil and/or a course of antibiotic medicine.
Rarity: Uncommon
Top Symptoms: pink or red facial bump, small facial lump, painful facial bump, marble sized facial lump, constant skin changes
Symptoms that always occur with boil (furuncle): pink or red facial bump
Symptoms that never occur with boil (furuncle): fever
Urgency: Self-treatment
Pimple
Pimples are also called comedones, spots, blemishes, or “zits.” Medically, they are small skin eruptions filled with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria.
Pimples often first start appearing at puberty, when hormones increase the production of oil in the skin and sometimes clog the pores.
Most susceptible are teenagers from about ages 13 to 17.
Symptoms include blocked pores that may appear flat and black on the surface, because the oil darkens when exposed to the air; blocked pores that appear white on the surface because they have closed over with dead skin cells; or swollen, yellow-white, pus-filled blisters surrounded by reddened skin.
Outbreaks of pimples on the skin can interfere with quality of life, making the person self-conscious about their appearance and causing pain and discomfort in the skin. A medical provider can help to manage the condition, sometimes through referral to a dermatologist.
Diagnosis is made through physical examination.
Treatment involves improving diet; keeping the skin, hair, washcloths, and towels very clean; and using over-the-counter acne remedies.
Rarity: Common
Top Symptoms: pink or red facial bump, small facial lump, painful facial bump, marble sized facial lump
Symptoms that always occur with pimple: pink or red facial bump
Urgency: Self-treatment
Melanoma
Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer. Often the first sign of melanoma is a change in the size, shape, color, or feel of a mole. Most melanomas have a black or black-blue area. Melanoma may also appear as a new mole. It may be black, abnormal, or “ugly looking.”
Rarity: Rare
Top Symptoms: brown-colored skin changes, atypical features of a facial bump, black-colored skin changes, growing facial lump, large facial lump
Symptoms that always occur with melanoma: atypical features of a facial bump
Urgency: Primary care doctor
Cherry angioma
Cherry angiomas are small, red, harmless skin findings that occur commonly in older adults. They are clumps of overgrown cells derived from the inside of blood vessels, or vascular endothelium. Cherry angiomas most commonly start appearing around age 40 and some estimates suggest that the major…
Back acne: common causes and how to treat it
There’s tonnes of information out there on acne – after all, it’s one of the most common skin condition affecting teenagers and adults alike. But what about acne that occurs elsewhere on the body?
Back acne, or ‘bacne’ is more common than you might have thought. While it’s totally normal to experience back and body acne, especially during your teenage years, it can often cause more discomfort and embarrassment than facial acne due to the lack of information out there. Here, we discuss what bacne is, why it happens and how you can treat it.
What is back acne?
Back acne has the same characteristics of facial ance, including the appearance of pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, red spots, oily skin and even scarring. The severity can vary from a spot here and there, to breaking out in larger areas. While it’s most common among boys in puberty, some people may experience it in their late 20s and even 30s! No matter your age, there is no shame in having acne and treatment is available.
What causes bacne?
Just like the pimples on your face, there are many causes of this common skin condition. Most often, acne occurs when the glands produce an excess of oil and dead skin cells that are not removed block the hair follicles. Another common cause of bacne is an individual’s lifestyle habits, such as working out or having a labour intense job. Sweat that is left on the skin for too long can often lead to breakouts on the back and body.
How can I treat it?
Depending on the cause of your body breakouts, there are several ways to treat bacne. Firstly, it is recommended to start treating the affected body area with the same products and skincare routine that you would use for your face!
Cleanse the skin thoroughly with a cleanser containing ingredients like salicylic acid, such as the Balense Microdermal Gentle Cleanser. Combine this with the Balense Microdermal Cleansing Scrub once or twice a week to really remove any dead skin cells that might be blocking your pores.
If you’re someone who workouts out or generally sweats a lot, consider wearing loose-fitting clothing, especially during a workout, and always wash shortly after sweating.
If you’ve tried everything and your bacne persists, treatment with microdermabrasion can be an effective solution. Microdermabrasions aren’t just for the face and can be used on other areas such as the back to reduce and treat the occurrence of acne. Likewise, laser treatments can be used to target the scarring left from the condition.
If you would like more information on acne treatments and packages at Australian Skin Clinics, visit one of our experiences dermal technicians at your local clinic today.
Acne in Men: Causes and Treatments
Just about everyone has some acne as teenagers. Sometimes it lasts much longer than that. Even grown men can have it. But there are treatments, even for severe acne decades after you finished high school.
Causes
For most people, changes in hormone levels trigger acne. These hormones create oils that can lead to clogged pores, which sometimes let bacteria grow. Both of these problems cause breakouts.
Men whose fathers had severe acne are more likely to have it, too. Some medications such as lithium, which treats bipolar disorder, and corticosteroids like prednisone can also bring on acne.
The Male Breakout
Men often get acne on the face and back.
Sweating can make it worse. Breakouts on the back often happen in hot weather or after exercising. They’re harder to control than the kind on your face. But fewer people see your back.
Some men get shaving bumps that look like acne, but ingrown hairs or shaving mistakes are the real cause.
What You Can Do
Keep your skin clean. Many cleansers are available. In general, avoid products with beads in them, because they can irritate your skin. Wash twice a day.
Your Face
Use a fresh washcloth that’s gentle on your skin.
When you shave, use a clean razor every time. You might want to use an over-the-counter product with benzoyl peroxide, retinol, or salicylic acid. Your doctor can prescribe an antibiotic foam that you can mix with your shaving cream to help prevent breakouts.
If shaving bumps are a problem for you, try an electric razor, and don’t shave too closely.
Your Back
When you shower, use a cleansing brush with an extension to wash hard-to-reach areas on your back. A sonic cleansing system with a changeable brush head is another option.
Benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid products can help control acne on your back. You don’t need a prescription for them. But go easy, because these can be drying.
A white, cotton tee-shirt is the best thing to have closest to your skin.
Stubborn Acne
If you’ve tried at-home treatments for 4-8 weeks and your acne won’t go away, it may be time to see a dermatologist.
At your appointment, your dermatologist will check your skin and recommend a treatment plan. You might need a prescription for antibiotics, prescription-strength benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, or a type of drug called retinoids.
If your acne is severe, your dermatologist may consider a drug called isotretinoin. Women who plan to get pregnant must avoid this drug, because it can cause birth defects. But men don’t need to take extra precautions to avoid getting their partner pregnant.
There are also high-tech options. One of them is a laser skin treatment, and another is light therapy combined with vacuum therapy. These can be expensive, and your insurance may not cover them, so check first.
90,000 Why rashes appear on their backs
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, 40-50 million Americans develop skin rashes at some point in their lives. Acne tends to appear during puberty, but in some people, skin rashes may remain reminiscent of themselves before the age of 30.
The severity of acne can vary from a few spots to larger clusters of lesions. As well as on the back, acne can appear on the face, neck.If acne is left untreated, it can leave dark spots and scars on the skin. Oily skin, blackheads, red spots, yellow pus-filled pimples and scars are all characteristic of back rashes.
When the level of hormones in the blood rises, it leads to excess sebum production. At the same time, dead skin cells that are not properly removed from the skin clog up the follicles. The combination of these processes leads to the accumulation of sebum and the formation of acne. Every person has bacteria Propionibacterium acnes, on their skin and for many this does not cause any problems.However, excess sebum formation and accumulation in acne-prone individuals creates an ideal breeding ground for bacteria. This can lead to inflammation and the formation of purulent or red skin rashes.
Back acne can be caused by wearing non-breathable clothing. To reduce the risk of skin rashes, you can try the following tips:
- take a shower after intense sweating;
- Avoid applying to the skin products that irritate the skin;
- do not squeeze out skin rashes;
- Use non-abrasive skin cleansers;
- Avoid sunburn and tanning beds as damaged skin is more prone to acne.
According to the British Association of Dermatologists, there is little evidence that any specific foods, such as chocolate or fast food, can cause acne. The American Academy of Dermatology, however, points to research showing that certain carbohydrates, including white bread and potato chips, raise blood glucose levels, which is a potential stimulus for acne.
There are many treatments for acne.Topical treatments are usually used for mild to moderate acne. Experts from the American Academy of Dermatology recommend in this case the use of products containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid.
In case of severe acne lesions, additional oral administration of antibiotics, hormonal drugs, isotretinoin may be required. In addition, there are a number of treatments available to reduce back acne, such as laser and other light therapy, drainage and extraction.
Based on materials from www.medicalnewstoday.com
90,000 causes and home remedies
Despite the fact that in adulthood, girls usually face acne on the face, this disease can manifest itself on any other part of the skin. It most commonly affects the neck, shoulders, décolleté and back. Moreover, recently, cases of exacerbation of acne in these areas have become so frequent that a new term for acne has appeared – bacne (back acne, that is, a rash on the back).
Causes of acne and acne on the back
Like most skin diseases, the causes of a rash on the body are external and internal. The latter include malnutrition, hormonal disruptions, certain medications, and even chronic insomnia. Also, the process can be aggravated by external factors: non-compliance with hygiene rules, synthetic clothing and improperly selected care products.
Instagram: @izabelgoulart
The nuance is that the pores on the skin of the back and décolleté are wider than on the face.Therefore, they become more easily clogged and inflamed. Accordingly, the care for these areas should be special. At the same time, it is impossible to dry out the inflammation: then the amount of sebum secreted will increase, and the situation will become even more deplorable. However, as in the case if something to press.
Improper showering can also cause acne on the back. The remains of shampoos, conditioners and masks, getting on the skin, cause inflammation. Therefore, after shampooing, be sure to rinse off all products.Better yet, wash your hair first and then take a shower.
How to treat back acne
Of course, it is better to immediately contact a beautician or dermatologist to confirm the diagnosis. At the same time, experts will advise therapeutic or care products that will help you quickly forget about the problem. But, if it turns out that the rash began due to malnutrition or a possible hormonal imbalance, you will have to be additionally examined and tested.
Are there not many inflammations, and did they appear quite recently? Try to locally lubricate them with Zerkalin or 1% salicylic acid alcohol solution.Creams and tonics that contain salicylic acid are also suitable. And it is better that such products do not contain oils, dyes and fragrances.
Text: Tanya Kozlovskaya
Based on materials from cosmo.com.ua
90,000 Back acne: causes and treatment
Causes of acne on the back:
– irritation from clothes
Often it is clothes made of low-quality synthetic materials that cause this problem.Especially in winter, when the skin on the back hardly breathes.
– insufficient skin cleansing
Neglect of hygiene is also bad for the health of the skin on the back.
– digestive problems
The skin removes toxins outside, which is reflected in the excessive greasiness of the skin.
– endocrine system disorders
Hormones can also provoke excessive skin greasiness and blockage of the sebaceous glands.
– various infections
In particular, chronic tonsillitis and genital infections can provoke this trouble.
– age
At the age of 12 to 24, acne on the back is the cause of the rapid activity of sex hormones.
How to cure back acne?
If the problem really has reached a large scale, do not self-medicate. Go to the doctor and get the necessary tests . Then the cause of inflammation on the skin of the back and shoulders will be clear.
Purchase a stiff natural bristle washcloth and massage it. Thus, the skin will get rid of dirt, dead cells of the epidermis and the secretion of the sebaceous glands.
Another good way is to diet. Eliminate sweet, fatty, fried, and spicy foods. Fill your diet with vegetables and fruits, cereals, dairy products and lean boiled meat and fish.
Wipe clean with potassium permanganate solution. The antiseptic effect of this product will help kill acne-causing bacteria and dry them out.
It is also useful to carry out a professional mechanical cleaning of the back by a dermatologist or beautician.Several cleansing sessions, in combination with dietary nutrition, will help get rid of this problem after a certain time.
90,000 cure acne on the face forever, folk remedies for acne
Why do acne appear and how to get rid of them?
Acne on the face and body is not just a cosmetic defect. This is a sign of a dermatological disease. Contrary to misconception, it is not only adolescents during puberty that are subject to it. We will figure out where blackheads come from, whether it is possible to prevent their appearance and how to remove blackheads, if any.
What is acne
Acne is a rash that appears on the skin. These are symptoms of a condition called acne. The reasons for this phenomenon are skin inflammation, accompanied by blockage of the sebaceous ducts. However, acne often has deeper physiological problems.
Acne in dermatology is called comedones, of which two types are known. Blackheads are open comedones. The greasy secret thickens and darkens. There are different points of view on the reason for the change in its color:
- chemical reaction – sebum oxidation;
- external pollution;
- effects of melanin.
Closed comedones do not have an outlet, although they cannot be called completely subcutaneous. They are characterized by a white color and a softer (sometimes liquid) consistency.
Acne appears on the back, chest and face. The T-region is particularly affected: chin, nose and forehead.
The symptoms of rosacea, although colloquially called rosacea, are not. They are caused by the expansion of blood vessels on the skin of the face – this is not associated with blockage of the sebaceous glands.
Classification of acne
Dermatologists distinguish three forms of the disease.They correspond to the characteristic varieties of eels:
- Mild form – comedonal formations. These are the black dots themselves.
- Form of moderate severity – papular-pustular formations. Pus appears in the blocked pore, nodules form.
- Severe form – subcutaneous formations. Getting rid of them is the most difficult thing, and without proper treatment, scars can remain on the skin.
Classify the forms of the disease and the degree of spread.With a first-degree lesion, acne is observed on one or two areas of the face. With the second, comedones pass to the body, single papules appear. In the third, the rash is represented mainly by papules and pustules. The fourth degree is characterized by painful subcutaneous nodules and scars.
Reasons for the appearance of
Skin inflammation with such unpleasant symptoms is caused by two groups of factors: dermatological and endocrinological. The first is associated with an excessive increase in male hormones androgens (especially testosterone).Therefore, acne on the face and body appears:
- during puberty;
- before menstruation;
- during pregnancy;
- for diseases accompanied by hyperandrogenism (for example, polycystic ovary syndrome).
90,013 after abortion;
Dermatological causes include hyperkeratosis (abnormal acceleration of the division of the skin’s horny cells) and hypersecretion of the sebaceous glands. Cosmetics with a dense texture can clog pores.
You can provoke the emergence of new blackheads if you get rid of old ones by squeezing. The resulting wound gets an infection that causes inflammation of the skin. The rash spreads quickly over a large area.
Ways to get rid of acne
Acne is just a symptom, so just getting rid of the rash is not enough. First of all, complex treatment of the disease that gave rise to them is required. Most often this is the correction of the hormonal background. If the nature of acne is dermatological, the following measures will help:
- elimination of hyperkeratosis;
- Normalization of the process of exfoliation of the stratum corneum of the epidermis;
- Suppression of increased sebum production;
- medicated skin sanitation (including antibacterial treatment) in order to remove inflammation;
- Correction of the structure of the upper layer of the epidermis to remove scars.
It is useful to change the usual daily skin and body care regimen, as acne indicates its low effectiveness. You may have to give up your usual cosmetics.
Acne treatments
Get rid of acne by different means and methods. They are selected personally, taking into account the patient’s history: his age, hormonal levels, the presence or absence of dysbiosis, the need for vitamins.
Acne is often accompanied by a change in the ratio of beneficial and harmful microflora in the body – dysbiosis.Therefore, patients often have intestinal problems that also need to be treated.
A medication complex to get rid of blackheads may include:
- antiseptic preparations;
- antibiotics for external and internal use;
- systemic retinoids;
- drugs that normalize testosterone levels;
- metabolism;
- vitamins.
Physiotherapy is also effective as an additional direction of treatment and elimination of cosmetic defects.Such methods are actively used: cryotherapy, phonophoresis, mesotherapy. Scars are removed with circular dermabrasion.
Facial skin care rules
If the skin is prone to comedones, you need to take care of it more carefully. The main task is to calm the sebaceous glands and prevent clogging of pores. For this you need:
- Ensure adequate cleaning. Standard washing is not enough to get rid of excess grease. It is necessary to wipe problem areas (nose, forehead, chin) with lotion or micellar water at least twice a day.
- Apply the correct cream. A moisturizer containing keratolytic (exfoliating) and antibacterial ingredients is suitable.
- Refuse from alcohol-containing products. They give the desired drying effect the first time after application. But in the future, they disrupt the balance of microflora and remove the necessary fluid.
Although acne on the nose or other areas of the face looks unattractive, you should not try to remove it yourself. It is important to get rid of the habit of popping pimples to avoid infection and aggravate the problem.
Rules for the care of the skin of the chest and back
Acne appears on the back and chest as often as on the face. It is not so striking, but it requires equally responsible skin care. If she is prone to oily content, it is worth increasing the frequency of bath procedures. It is advisable to take a shower twice a day – in the morning and before bedtime.
In the absence of rashes, it is better to clean the back with a washcloth or sponge of medium hardness. During an exacerbation, it is better to prefer milder options in order to avoid microtraumas.
After cleansing from excess fat, sweat and dead particles of the epidermis, you can proceed to special products:
- scrubs to exfoliate excess stratum corneum;
- thermal water for humidification;
- creams enriched with vitamins A and E.
90,013 mild peels;
In case of acne, it is recommended to remove synthetics and wear natural fabrics. It is better to choose loose clothes: tight and pressing contributes to the clogging of the follicles.
How to get rid of acne quickly
This question often torments people for whom flawless appearance is fundamental. Pimples that suddenly appear before an important event (date, interview, photography) become a serious annoying factor for them that must be promptly eliminated.
Dermatologists keep repeating: squeezing acne is unacceptable. It will still not work to get rid of an unwanted defect. An unpleasant wound will appear at the site of the pimple.If an infection gets into it, the appearance will suffer even more.
At home, you can only remove inflammation in order to reduce the tubercle and speed up its healing:
- spot use sos-products for problem skin;
- Make a mask with tea tree or aloe extract.
Do not try to get rid of blackheads with tinctures or non-specialized products. This can cause allergies or even more redness.
Is it possible to get rid of acne on the face forever
Normally, after puberty, this problem should not arise. No one has been able to completely eliminate the risk of acne. Periodically, any person may lose hormonal balance or accelerate the production of the sebaceous glands. But it happens sporadically.
Acne is generally considered a lingering problem caused by endocrine disease or hyperkeratosis. It cannot be solved by itself. But if the cause is eliminated, get rid of the unpleasant consequence.
The only group of people for whom the task is practically insoluble are those with a genetic nature of acne. Careful skin care and prevention of endocrine diseases can help reduce the extent of the damage.
90,000 Why do acne on the back appear?
Acne, acne, blackheads are always unpleasant, no matter where they appear on the body.It is especially unpleasant when there are acne on the back, but the person does not see them and lives in complete confidence that he has beautiful skin.
For those people who really worry about the beauty of their body, and do not hope that everything will go away anyway, there is good news – you can get rid of pimples. To do this, first of all, you need to determine the cause of the onset of inflammatory processes on the skin.
Causes of acne on the back
First, let’s figure out how acne occurs.Time (follicle) is able to accumulate dead skin cells and sebum. When it is stuffed to the eyeballs, it clogs up. In this case, a black dot appears, which is called a comedone. If bacteria that live on the surface of the skin are added to this, then acne occurs. The back is an area with an increased risk of acne, because it contains a lot of sebaceous glands.
There are several common causes that trigger acne:
- Friction, tight-fitting clothing can irritate and inflame the follicle, which will trigger mechanical acne.This group of reasons also includes backpacks, tight collars, bag straps, sports equipment and clothing.
Large amount of sweat.
Poor hygiene.
Allergy to body cosmetics and clothing fabric.
Larger acne can be triggered by a malfunction of the internal organs.
Bad habits.
Depending on the cause of your acne, you need to take some preventive measures.
How to prevent acne?
First of all, you need to find out what is the reason for their appearance. Observe how your skin reacts to certain clothing, care products, food, and alcohol. See what skin condition is after profuse sweating. If you have not identified any patterns, be sure to consult a doctor. Since the reason may lie in the malfunctioning of internal organs.
General tips to prevent acne on your back, shoulders, chest and neck:
Keep your skin clean, but don’t overdo it.Both extremes will contribute to acne, so keep the middle ground. As a remedy after taking a shower, you can use calendula tincture, salicylic alcohol and a solution of potassium permanganate, which will dry the problem area of the skin.
Get rid of cosmetics and clothing to which the skin reacts with rashes.
Try not to clog the body with slags and toxins, which means the need to stop abusing alcohol and cigarettes.
Sometimes it is necessary to strengthen the body’s metabolism, for this take a course of vitamins and drink enough water.
Treatment of acne
If these preventive measures do not help, then treatment should be started. For treatment, you need to find out the factors that affect the development of the disease. Therefore, if by observation you have not noted why acne appears on the back, contact your doctor. He will prescribe medications and a course of treatment that will remove the cause of acne.
On the Internet, you can find many tips and tools to help get rid of acne. But often self-medication does not work at best, and at worst is harmful. Therefore, it is better to entrust your health to professionals.
90,000 Acne on the face. What to do?
IMPORTANT!
The information in this section cannot be used for self-diagnosis and self-medication. In case of pain or other exacerbation of the disease, only the attending physician should prescribe diagnostic tests.For a diagnosis and correct treatment, you should contact your doctor.
The causes of acne must be looked for inside the body. How to identify the cause of skin problems and eliminate it? What should be done to avoid the appearance of acne?
How do acne appear? Due to the excessive formation of subcutaneous fat and the accumulation of keratinized skin, blockage and inflammation of the sebaceous hair follicle occurs, as a result, a pimple appears.But the causes of acne should most often be sought inside the body. Moreover, the process of acne formation occurs 2 weeks before the onset of inflammation on the skin.
There is a so-called map of the correspondence of internal organs to zones on the face:
- the middle part of the forehead corresponds to the small intestine;
- eyelids and eye area – to the kidneys;
- temporal region – gallbladder;
- middle third of the face, cheekbones – stomach;
- nose – to the pancreas;
- the lower part of the cheeks and the lower jaw are light.
90,013 chin – pelvic organs;
To eliminate the problem, cosmetic products alone are not enough, since they will give a temporary effect.
Of course, the condition of the skin depends a lot on nutrition and skin care. However, the abuse of fatty foods, chocolate or improper skin care is not the root cause of skin problems: they are factors that aggravate its condition (of course, if we are not talking about an allergic reaction).
The main causes of acne are heredity, hormones and stress.
Hyperfunction of the sebaceous glands, which leads to inflammation of the sebaceous hair follicle of the subcutaneous fat, may be the result of an increase in the concentration of testosterone – male sex hormones in a woman’s blood. To confirm this reason, you should take an analysis for sex hormones and contact a gynecologist in order to exclude possible diseases of the pelvic organs.
Another likely cause of acne is liver failure. Since the liver is a kind of filter that rid our body of toxins, disturbances in its work can appear on the skin.A biochemical blood test should be done to confirm.
If acne appears unexpectedly, then you can assume an allergic reaction and identify what could provoke it. As a rule, the problem is completely solved by eliminating contact with the allergen. Testing should be done to identify a possible allergen.
The reason for the appearance of acne can be hidden in the disruption of the intestines, chronic constipation, which leads to the retention of toxic substances in the body and, as a consequence, the appearance of acne.In this case, it is necessary to solve the problems with digestion. To do this, you need to seek advice from a gastroenterologist, take an analysis for dysbiosis.
Bacteria from the groups of streptococci and staphylococci can also cause acne. If the rash is accompanied by purulent or serous discharge, be sure to sow the discharge to identify bacteria and prescribe a competent treatment.
Chronic immunodeficiency can also be the cause of acne, you should be alerted by the appearance of painful purulent rashes on the body and face, especially with frequent relapses of chronic and colds.You should consult a doctor as early as possible to prescribe timely treatment.
Prevention is based on proper nutrition with a sufficient amount of vitamins and minerals.
When caring for your skin, it is necessary to take into account the fact that you cannot squeeze out acne: this will only drive the bacteria deeper into the pores and against this background a more dangerous infection may develop. Apply an ice cube to the inflammation, apply a medication that contains salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or sulfur.
To combat acne, do not increase the number of washes. Skin needs natural oil to maintain hydration and firmness, and frequent washing deprives it of this oil, which it will seek to restore by doubling its production. You need to wash your face no more than 2 times a day using special products.
Exercise only in lightweight, breathable clothing, as moisture and heat are the best conditions for acne to develop, and friction can only make it worse.Shower immediately after class.
IMPORTANT!
The information in this section cannot be used for self-diagnosis and self-medication. In case of pain or other exacerbation of the disease, only the attending physician should prescribe diagnostic tests. For a diagnosis and correct treatment, you should contact your doctor.
Where does it come from and what to do with it – BEAUTY ADVISOR
When people talk about hormonal disorders, they most often mean an increase in the level of dehydrotestosterone (DHT), an androgen hormone that is in the body of both men and women.He is responsible for the functioning of the reproductive system and libido. The activity of dehydrotestosterone is directly related to the occurrence of acne. This study details what happens in the body as DHT levels rise. In short, it provokes a chain of metabolic reactions, as a result of which the skin produces more keratinocytes and sebum. The more sebum and dead cells there is, the more likely it becomes to clog pores and cause blackheads and inflammation. How do you know if your DHT levels are high? Pass the analysis.And then see a doctor, because acne is not the only unpleasant moment associated with an increase in DHT levels. The level of this hormone in the blood can signal other diseases as well.
An adult acne is characterized by a qualitative change in the composition of sebum. In this study, they write that in the composition of sebum of those prone to acne, there is less linoleic acid, and oxidation of squalene is also observed. The activity of P.acnes and UV exposure. So sunbathing in the hope that the sun will dry out acne is not worth it: on the contrary, excessive radiation can provoke even more rashes.
By the way, the bacteria P. acnes, which often figure among the factors influencing the appearance of acne, is a representative of the normal human microflora. Moreover, some time ago it was proved that P. acnes, feeding on sebum, secrete a special enzyme that has antioxidant properties and is able to protect the skin from psoriasis and dermatitis.