Discover the most effective treatments and prevention methods for back acne. Learn how to get rid of those pesky blemishes and maintain a clear complexion. Expert-backed tips and products that work.

Understanding Back Acne: Causes and Symptoms

Back acne, commonly referred to as “backne,” is a prevalent skin condition that affects many individuals. It is characterized by the presence of blackheads, whiteheads, papules, and even painful cysts on the back. Unlike facial acne, back acne can be more challenging to treat due to its location and the difficulty in reaching and applying treatments effectively.

The primary cause of back acne is the same as that of facial acne: clogged pores. The back has a high density of sebaceous glands, which produce an oily substance called sebum. When this sebum, along with dead skin cells, accumulates in the pores, it can lead to the formation of acne lesions. Additionally, a type of yeast called Malassezia can contribute to the development of acne-like lesions, particularly in warm and humid environments.

Cleansing and Exfoliating: The Foundation of Back Acne Treatment

Establishing a consistent and effective cleansing routine is a crucial step in managing back acne. The American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD) recommends using a mild, non-irritating cleanser on a daily basis, especially after sweating or engaging in physical activity. Harsh soaps and over-scrubbing should be avoided, as they can further aggravate the inflammation and irritation.

To target the acne-causing bacteria and excess oil, consider using a cleanser containing benzoyl peroxide. This ingredient has been shown to be effective in reducing the appearance of back acne lesions. The AAD suggests a concentration of around 5.3%, which is less likely to cause side effects such as dryness and irritation. One product that fits this recommendation is the Differin Daily Deep Cleanser, which contains 5% benzoyl peroxide and is suitable for sensitive skin.

Retinoids: Enhancing Skin Cell Turnover

In addition to cleansing, incorporating retinoid-based products into your back acne regimen can be highly beneficial. Retinoids work by promoting cell turnover, which helps to unclog pores and prevent the formation of new acne lesions. One option to consider is the La Roche Posay Effaclear 0.1% Adapalene Gel, a prescription-strength retinoid that is suitable for everyday use and formulated to be gentle on the skin.

Moisturizing: Maintaining Skin Hydration

While it may seem counterintuitive, properly moisturizing the skin can actually help in the management of back acne. When the skin becomes overly dry, it can produce more oil to compensate, leading to further clogging of the pores. Look for oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturizers that won’t contribute to the problem.

Prescription Treatments: When OTC Options Aren’t Enough

For individuals with more severe or persistent back acne, prescription medications may be necessary. These can include topical retinoids, antibiotics, and even oral medications such as isotretinoin. Consulting a dermatologist can help determine the most appropriate treatment plan based on the individual’s specific needs and the severity of their condition.

Lifestyle Modifications: Preventing Back Acne Flare-ups

In addition to the various treatment options, making certain lifestyle adjustments can also play a significant role in preventing and managing back acne. This includes:

• Wearing loose, breathable fabrics that don’t trap sweat and bacteria against the skin
• Showering immediately after engaging in physical activity or sweating
• Avoiding the use of heavy, occlusive backpacks or bags that can further irritate the skin
• Maintaining a balanced, nutrient-rich diet that supports skin health

Patience and Persistence: The Key to Successful Back Acne Treatment

Treating back acne can be a complex and challenging process, as the location and the nature of the condition make it more difficult to manage compared to facial acne. However, with a consistent and comprehensive approach, incorporating both over-the-counter and prescription treatments, as well as making lifestyle modifications, it is possible to achieve clear and healthy skin on the back. Remember, patience and persistence are essential, as it may take several weeks or even months to see significant improvements.

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.

Read more about our vetting process.

Was this helpful?

Acne is a common condition that typically develops in areas of skin with a lot of oil-producing glands, such as the face, chest, and back. Cleansers, medications, and laser therapy are just some ways of treating it.

Back acne, or “backne,” may involve blackheads, whiteheads, or pus-filled bumps called cysts.

The treatment for back acne depends on its severity and may involve over-the-counter (OTC) products, prescription medications, or treatments such as light therapy.

This article looks at what back acne is, what causes it, and how to treat it.

Back acne refers to pimples or cysts on the back. It can involve:

• Blackheads: Each bump has a dark dot in its center.
• Whiteheads: Each bump has a white center.
• Papules: Each small bump has no distinct “head.”
• Cysts: These painful or tender lumps look similar to boils and are a severe form of acne.

Back acne is not a specific medical condition, but it has some unique challenges when compared to acne on the face. For example, it can be more difficult to see and reach back acne to apply treatments.

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.

SHOP NOW

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.

SHOP NOW

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.

SHOP NOW

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.

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

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

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

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

Puberty

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

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

Family history

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

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

Sex

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

Other triggers

Other factors that may cause acne or trigger outbreaks include:

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

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

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

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

Will back acne go away by itself?

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

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

Does scrubbing your back help acne?

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

Should I moisturize back acne?

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

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

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

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

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

Read the article in Spanish.

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.

Read more about our vetting process.

Was this helpful?

Acne is a common condition that typically develops in areas of skin with a lot of oil-producing glands, such as the face, chest, and back. Cleansers, medications, and laser therapy are just some ways of treating it.

Back acne, or “backne,” may involve blackheads, whiteheads, or pus-filled bumps called cysts.

The treatment for back acne depends on its severity and may involve over-the-counter (OTC) products, prescription medications, or treatments such as light therapy.

This article looks at what back acne is, what causes it, and how to treat it.

Back acne refers to pimples or cysts on the back. It can involve:

• Blackheads: Each bump has a dark dot in its center.
• Whiteheads: Each bump has a white center.
• Papules: Each small bump has no distinct “head.”
• Cysts: These painful or tender lumps look similar to boils and are a severe form of acne.

Back acne is not a specific medical condition, but it has some unique challenges when compared to acne on the face. For example, it can be more difficult to see and reach back acne to apply treatments.

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.

SHOP NOW

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.

SHOP NOW

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.

SHOP NOW

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.

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

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

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

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

Puberty

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

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

Family history

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

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

Sex

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

Other triggers

Other factors that may cause acne or trigger outbreaks include:

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

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

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

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

Will back acne go away by itself?

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

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

Does scrubbing your back help acne?

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

Should I moisturize back acne?

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

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

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

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

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

Read the article in Spanish.

Age spots | ERA ESTHETIC

Diagnosis and treatment

Age spots can be congenital or acquired. Over time, they become more and more for various reasons. A dermatologist will diagnose age spots and prescribe treatment based on their type, as well as the causes, density, intensity, location and age of the patient.

In what areas do age spots occur?

In young people, they are most often located in the forehead, nose, cheeks and upper lip. In older people, age spots often appear on the back, chest, and on the outside of the arms. For people under 50, increased pigmentation is often a sign of premature aging.

What causes increased pigmentation?

Melanocytes, the cells that produce melanin, the main skin pigment, are responsible for skin pigmentation. It is a normal skin pigment containing sulfur. With an increase in melanin production, pigmentation increases, and in connection with its decrease, local or widespread reductions in pigmentation or its absence (vitiligo) appear.

Skin pigmentation is closely related to the vitamin and enzyme balance of the body. A lack of vitamins A, C and PP increases melanogenesis (melanin production), and a lack of B vitamins reduces it. The activity of melanocytes is influenced by adrenal hormones, sex hormones, thyroid activity, microelements (copper, zinc, iron), intercellular skin enzymes. The most dangerous violation of local pigmentation is melanoma, which is a neoplasm containing melanin.

Age spots can occur as a result of hormonal imbalance, in diseases of the thyroid gland, liver, in women – during pregnancy and in gynecological diseases. Often, age spots appear in people suffering from various chronic diseases or diseases of the nervous system, working with various chemicals and fever, experiencing a lack of vitamin C. Pigmentation can increase as a result of the action of various substances that have entered the body. Also, age spots can remain after burns, injections, insect bites, due to certain skin diseases, or after contact with certain plants. In the face area, age spots can appear when using irritating substances – various creams and soaps, in the torso area – as a result of squeezing and friction. The sun has a strong influence on the occurrence of age spots.

What treatments are available for age spots?

Treatment of age spots can be carried out in the following ways:

1. Medication – by applying highly concentrated bleaching preparations to the skin, which can be used for a short time and only under medical supervision.
2. Cleansing of the skin with peels – carried out locally with the use of certain acids: salicylic, glycolic, trichloroacetic. Depending on the structure and localization of the pigment spot, the peeling intensity can be increased with the help of so-called activators.
3. Mesotherapy – by introducing cocktails of various preparations into the skin.
4. Removal of age spots with a laser. Read more about this. Removal of age spots with a laser.

Preventing the appearance of age spots

30-50 SPF.

The article is the intellectual property of the Era Esthetic Laser Dermatology Clinic; copying and/or distribution is prohibited.

Why age spots appear and how to get rid of them

May 20

Likbez

Health

Better not try to cope on your own.

What are age spots

Age spots, or hyperpigmentation, is an uneven distribution of melanin pigment in the skin, due to which darker areas appear on it. They can be brown, almost black, grayish or reddish, depending on the original skin tone. They don’t hurt or itch, but you may not like them.

Age spots can appear in any person. But people with swarthy and dark skin are more predisposed to them, regardless of race.

What causes pigment spots

The color of the skin is due to the pigment melanin, which is produced by melanocyte cells. When they are damaged or something stimulates them too much, some areas stain more than others.

Genetic feature

In some people some melanocytes are recycled, so there are darker areas on the skin where there is more pigment – freckles. Moreover, the probability is higher if relatives also have them.

Skin lesions

When the skin is damaged, then local inflammation begins inside it. In the process, various substances are released that stimulate melanocytes, and they work more actively and stain the skin more strongly. At the same time, when the cells of the surface layer of the epidermis are destroyed, and the pigment from them is captured by the cells lying below, the color is uneven. This is called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

It may develop:

• at the site of a cut or wound;
• after skin diseases such as acne, psoriasis, lichen planus;
• due to burns, including after photosensitizing drugs and cosmetics;
• after cosmetic procedures such as chemical peels.

UV action

Melanin protects the skin from UV radiation. Therefore, the more we are in the sun, the darker the tan. Due to constant exposure, some areas, such as the face and shoulders, are injured and sunbathe more strongly. In this case, hyperpigmentation is called solar lentigo.

Hormonal changes

Melanin production is also influenced by hormones. Pregnancy, puberty and aging affect the hormonal level, so age spots appear more often at this time.

Taking certain medications

Hyperpigmentation can be a side effect of various medications, for example:

• birth control pills;
• antibiotics;
• neuroleptics;
• antifungals;
• non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs;
• diuretics;
• hypoglycemic drugs.

Diseases of the internal organs

Hyperpigmentation can be a symptom of diseases of the thyroid gland and adrenal glands, as well as malignant neoplasms.

Oksana Chernenko

Dermatologist, cosmetologist and trichologist at Professor Yutskovskaya’s clinic. Teacher at the School of Professor Yutskovskaya.

In addition to hormonal disorders, internal causes of age spots are liver disease and impaired bile flow. That is why, before starting treatment, cosmetologists recommend undergoing a check of the body – passing the necessary tests.

Vitamin deficiencies

Sometimes hyperpigmentation is due to a lack of folic acid and vitamin B12. Also, according to Oksana Chernenko, the problem may be the lack of vitamins A, E, C, PP.

How to start treating age spots

From a visit to a dermatologist. Your doctor can help determine if further testing is needed and tell you how to treat it. In some cases, you may be asked to take a biopsy to rule out the risk of developing melanoma.

If pigmentation is associated with internal problems of the body, you first need to deal with them. Otherwise, the spots will appear again and again.

How to get rid of age spots

If the spots appeared for generally harmless reasons, then they can be dealt with.

Oksana Chernenko

The fight against pigmentation consists in prescribing home care products with anti-pigment action, apparatus methods, as well as mesotherapy and biorevitalization, that is, the introduction of hyaluronic acid preparations, vitamins and antioxidants into the skin.

One of the most effective methods is selective photothermolysis, it helps to break down and remove unnecessary accumulations of melanin from the skin. In addition to this, nutritional support and treatment of the underlying disease that caused hyperpigmentation, if any, is prescribed.

Avoid triggers

You can make small lifestyle changes to avoid making the problem worse:

• avoid prolonged sun exposure, apply and renew sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, wear closed clothing;
• if possible, stop taking drugs that can provoke hyperpigmentation;
• Take vitamin B12 or C supplements as directed by your healthcare professional.

Try topical treatment

Topical treatments are ointments and creams with whitening ingredients. They can be recommended to you by a dermatologist or cosmetologist. They usually contain:

• hydroquinone;
• kojic acid;
• hydroxy acids such as azelaic and salicylic;
• retinoids;
• vitamins C and B3.

It is important not to forget sunscreen during treatment.

Refer to cosmetic procedures

A beautician can suggest several methods:

• chemical peels, during which acids destroy the old superficial layers of the skin with excessively colored cells;
• phototherapy, in which a laser beam with a certain wavelength selectively acts on pigmented cells without injuring others;
• cryotherapy, or cold treatment, which stimulates cell renewal;
• laser resurfacing, during which the laser completely destroys the surface layers of the skin.

These procedures injure the skin in one way or another, so it is better to start the fight against hyperpigmentation in the fall, when the sun is not so active.

Oksana Chernenko

Almost any cosmetic procedure is a controlled traumatization of the skin with needles or a device. So, if you have a tendency to hyperpigmentation, there is a risk of getting it after the procedure.