Pimples on your back. Back Acne: Causes, Treatments, and Prevention Strategies

05.07.202316.06.2023 by alexxlab

What causes back acne. How can you effectively treat back acne at home. What are the best professional treatments for severe back acne. How to prevent back acne flare-ups.

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Understanding Back Acne: Causes and Types

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

The main types of back acne include:

Blackheads: Open comedones with dark centers
Whiteheads: Closed comedones with white centers
Papules: Small, red, inflamed bumps without a distinct head
Cysts: Large, painful, pus-filled lumps deep under the skin

Why does acne tend to occur on the back? The back has a high concentration of sebaceous glands, which produce sebum – an oily substance that protects the skin. When excess sebum combines with dead skin cells and bacteria, it can lead to clogged pores and acne formation.

Interestingly, a type of yeast called Malassezia can also cause lesions that resemble acne. This yeast thrives in humid, sweaty environments, making the back an ideal breeding ground, especially when covered by clothing or backpacks. If Malassezia invades hair follicles, it can cause a condition known as pityrosporum folliculitis, which may be mistaken for bacterial acne.

Effective Over-the-Counter Treatments for Back Acne

For individuals with mild to moderate back acne, a combination of acne-friendly skincare and over-the-counter (OTC) products can often provide significant improvement. Here are some effective OTC treatments to consider:

Benzoyl Peroxide Cleansers

Benzoyl peroxide is a powerful ingredient that kills acne-causing bacteria and helps reduce lesions. When using a benzoyl peroxide wash on the back:

Choose a concentration around 5.3% to minimize side effects like irritation and dryness
Leave the wash on for a few minutes before rinsing to allow better absorption
Use daily or as directed by a healthcare professional

One product to consider is the Differin Daily Deep Cleanser, containing 5% benzoyl peroxide and suitable for sensitive skin.

Retinoid Products

Retinoids are derivatives of vitamin A that can help unclog pores and promote cell turnover. For back acne treatment:

Look for OTC creams containing 0.1% retinoid
Consider adapalene gel, such as La Roche Posay Effaclar 0.1% Adapalene Gel
Apply after showering and before bedtime
Use an applicator for hard-to-reach areas

Non-Comedogenic Moisturizers

If your back feels dry or tight after cleansing, use an oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturizer to maintain skin hydration without clogging pores.

Prescription Treatments for Severe Back Acne

When OTC treatments prove insufficient for managing back acne, prescription options may be necessary. These can include:

Topical antibiotics to combat bacterial overgrowth
Oral antibiotics for more widespread or severe cases
Stronger retinoids like tretinoin or tazarotene
Isotretinoin for extremely severe, cystic acne
Hormonal treatments for women with acne related to hormonal imbalances

It’s crucial to consult a dermatologist to determine the most appropriate prescription treatment based on the severity of your back acne and individual factors.

Professional Treatments and Procedures for Back Acne

In some cases, professional treatments performed by a dermatologist or skincare specialist may be recommended to address persistent or severe back acne. These can include:

Chemical Peels

Chemical peels involve applying a solution to the skin that causes the top layer to peel off, revealing fresher, less acne-prone skin underneath. They can help unclog pores and reduce acne lesions.

Light and Laser Therapies

Various light-based treatments can target acne-causing bacteria and reduce inflammation. Options may include:

Blue light therapy
Red light therapy
Photodynamic therapy
Laser treatments

Extraction Procedures

For stubborn blackheads and whiteheads, a dermatologist may perform gentle extraction procedures to clear clogged pores manually.

Lifestyle Changes to Prevent and Manage Back Acne

In addition to topical treatments and medications, certain lifestyle modifications can help prevent and manage back acne:

Shower promptly after sweating or exercising
Wear loose-fitting, breathable clothing during physical activities
Change out of sweaty clothes as soon as possible
Use non-comedogenic sunscreen when exposing your back to the sun
Avoid picking or squeezing acne lesions to prevent scarring
Regularly wash bedding and backpacks that come into contact with your back

Diet and Nutrition: Impact on Back Acne

While the relationship between diet and acne is still being studied, some evidence suggests that certain dietary factors may influence acne development. Consider the following dietary adjustments:

Reduce consumption of high-glycemic foods and drinks
Limit dairy intake, especially skim milk
Increase consumption of omega-3 fatty acids
Ensure adequate zinc intake through diet or supplements
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water

It’s important to note that dietary changes alone may not cure back acne, but they can be a helpful component of a comprehensive treatment plan.

When to Seek Professional Help for Back Acne

While many cases of back acne can be managed with OTC treatments and lifestyle changes, there are instances when professional help is necessary. Consider consulting a dermatologist if:

Your back acne is severe or cystic
OTC treatments haven’t shown improvement after 4-6 weeks of consistent use
You’re experiencing emotional distress or self-esteem issues due to back acne
You’re developing scars from your back acne
You suspect your acne might be related to an underlying medical condition or medication

A dermatologist can provide a comprehensive evaluation, prescribe stronger treatments if needed, and develop a personalized plan to manage your back acne effectively.

Natural Remedies and Alternative Treatments for Back Acne

While scientific evidence for natural remedies is often limited, some individuals find relief from back acne using alternative treatments. These may include:

Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil has antimicrobial properties that may help fight acne-causing bacteria. How can you use tea tree oil for back acne? Dilute a few drops in a carrier oil and apply to affected areas, or look for skincare products containing tea tree oil.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Some people use apple cider vinegar as a toner due to its potential antibacterial properties. To try this method, mix equal parts water and apple cider vinegar, apply to the back with a cotton pad, and rinse after a few minutes.

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory properties that may help soothe acne-prone skin. Apply pure aloe vera gel to affected areas or look for aloe-containing skincare products.

Green Tea

Green tea contains antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation. Consider applying cooled green tea to your back with a spray bottle or cotton pads.

It’s important to note that while these natural remedies may provide some benefits, they should not replace proven medical treatments for severe or persistent back acne. Always consult with a healthcare professional before trying new treatments, especially if you have sensitive skin or are using other acne medications.

In conclusion, managing back acne often requires a multi-faceted approach combining proper skincare, targeted treatments, and lifestyle modifications. By understanding the causes of back acne and exploring various treatment options, most individuals can find an effective strategy to clear their skin and prevent future breakouts. Remember that consistency is key in any acne treatment plan, and it may take several weeks to see significant improvement. If back acne persists or causes significant distress, don’t hesitate to seek professional help from a dermatologist who can provide personalized recommendations and advanced treatment options.

How to get rid of it and how to prevent it

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Why does acne occur on the back?

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

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

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

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

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

Cleanser

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

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

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

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

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

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Retinoids

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

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

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

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

A 1.6 oz tube costs $30.99.

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Moisturizer

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

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

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

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Sunscreen

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

Oral contraceptives

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

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

Oral contraceptives can decrease androgen levels.

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

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

Oral antibiotics

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

Isotretinoin

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

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

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

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

Antiandrogen therapy

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

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

Light and laser therapy

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

There are different types of light therapy:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Puberty

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

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

Family history

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

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

Sex

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

Other triggers

Other factors that may cause acne or trigger outbreaks include:

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

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

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

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

Will back acne go away by itself?

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

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

Does scrubbing your back help acne?

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

Should I moisturize back acne?

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

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

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

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

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

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How to get rid of it and how to prevent it

We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission Here’s our process.

Medical News Today only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.

Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:

Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?
Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?
Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices?

We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness.