In this post we will discuss everything you need to know about the causes, treatment and prevention of back acne.
What Causes Back Acne?
Back acne is usually caused by a build up of oils and dead skin cells inside pores. The pores can become clogged and attract bacteria, this triggers an inflammatory response which presents as redness, swelling, pustules and bumps.
Hormones can trigger back acne and you may notice it flaring up at certain times of your cycle. Because of this some people may be more prone to back acne than others. This includes those with hormonal disorders such as polycystic ovary syndrome.
How To Get Rid Of Back Acne
1. Use A Body Wash With Acne Fighting Ingredients.
That yummy creamy, strawberry scented shower gel may feel like a luxury, but if it doesn’t contain acne fighting ingredients like salicylic acid (an exfoliant that also unclogs blocked pores), glycolic acid (an AHA that dissolves the “glue” of dead skin cells making them easier to exfoliate) and Lactic Acid (also an AHA with the same skin-smoothing, spot-preventing properties as glycolic acid that is slightly milder)then it is likely that is it not doing your back acne any favours.
Acids like salicylic, glycolic and Lactic Acid prevent dead skin cells from building up and blocking your pores.
Glytone Exfoliating Body Wash
Glytone Exfoliating Body Wash contains Glycolic Acid which helps to prevent acne and smooths out dry, bumpy skin. It shows results with regular use in around 2 weeks and is fragrance free so it is ideal for sensitive skin that is prone to break outs.
Murad Acne Body Wash
Murad Acne Body Wash contains a potent dose of salicylic acid for maximum Acne fighting properties. Despite this high dose it is not drying to the skin due to its patented delivery system that helps to lock in moisture.
CerAve SA Smoothing Cleanser
CerAve SA Smoothing Cleanser contains salicylic acid, hyaluronic acid and niacinamide. So you won’t have to worry about over drying your skin as many acne fighting products have a tendency to do so. It is also fragrance and paraben free making it an ideal pick for any one with sensitive skin.
2. Shower Daily- Especially after breaking a sweat
Bacteria that can cause acne thrives on sweaty skin. Taking a shower immediately after a sweating is key to preventing new breakouts.
Although we know that Acne is not directly related to cleanliness, sweat can certainly aggravate the skin.
The way you shower can also have an impact on your skin. Shampoo and conditions can aggravate the skin as they leave a residue on the back which can clog pores and cause back-acne. Remember to rinse the back or wash with a acne cleanser after washing hair.
3. Use A Scrub Before Showering
Using a body scrub a few times a week in the shower can help with blackheads and those under the skin spots.
These are not to be overused as they can aggravate the skin and lead to inflammation.
WISHFUL YO DETOX FACE & BODY ENZYME SCRUB
Wishful Yo Detox that works to refresh and tackle excess oil without stripping skin, works away at dullness and decongests blocked pores. It uses both enzyme exfoliants and physical and is not irritating to the skin. It also has hyperpigmentation fighting ingredients and charcoal to further draw out impurities.
PAULA’S CHOICE 2% BHA BODY SPOT EXFOLIANT
Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Body Smoothing Spot Exfoliant is a gently moisturising lotion with salicylic acid that works hard to exfoliate dry, rough and bumpy acne-prone skin. It leaves it hydrated and smooth. If that wasn’t enough it also diminishes the appearance of clogged pores.
4. Wash And Change Clothes After Each Use
We know that sweat and bacteria can lead to blocked pores, especially back acne. In warm weather it is worth carrying a change of clothing to avoid giving the bacteria nice conditions to grow in.
It is also best to wash clothes especially those in direct contact with your skin such as underwear after each use.
Where possible opt for clothes that don’t stick directly to the skin, you can even try wearing one size bigger to avoid triggering of a reaction by clothes that are in direct contact to irritated, inflamed skin.
5. Never Pick Spots
As tempting as this can be avoid it all costs. Picking at breakouts can lead to damage of the skin which presents as dark scarring and is a pain to get rid of it. Apart from this it can actually be dangerous as the open skin is at risk of infections.
Instead opt for a topical treatment. Look for ingredients such as benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid and AHA’s. Check out the post on 5 Simple Reasons Your Acne Won’t Clear.
MALIN + GOETZSALICYLIC GEL
Malin + Goetz Salicylic Gel helps to avoid breakouts. It contains salicylic acid, lactic acid and soothing witch hazel so is potent enough to keep Acne at bay whilst still being gentle on skin.
It is ideal for those who have oily skin but it is suitable for all skin types.
6. Use an Acne friendly moisturiser
Creams that are thick and oily can clog up pores and contribute to breakouts. Lighter creams and non-oil based formulations are key for keeping Acne at bay.
Opt for a moisturiser that will soothe skin by looking for ingredients that contain salicylic acid, glycolic acid and benzoyl peroxide.
Also look for the words non-comedogenic and fragrance free.
CeraVE Moisturising Lotion
CeraVe moisturising Lotion is Non-comedogenic (which means it won’t clog your pores) and hypoallergenic (making it perfect for those with sensitive skin). It contains ceramics that help to rebuild skin cells and a hydrating dose of hyaluronic acid. It is also oil free and very light and silky on the skin.
7. Visit a skin specialist
If you have tried everything and feel that nothing works, it may be worth visiting a specialist such as a dermatologist.
There are treatments available through a prescription that may be what you need to clear the acne once and for all.
Anti-biotics are often needed to fight the bacteria that is causing acne, other treatments include iso-tretinoin, a vitamin A derivative, for severe cases as well as prescription strength creams and gels that contain antibiotics.
