Acne is a common skin condition that happens when hair follicles under the skin become clogged. Also known as acne vulgaris typical features of the condition include blackheads or whiteheads, pimples, oily skin, and possible scarring. It primarily affects skin with a relatively high number of oil glands, including the face, upper part of the chest, and back.
This can cause significant negative psychological effects including lowered self-esteem, depression, and anxiety.
Depending on its severity, this face condition cause emotional distress and scar the skin. The earlier you start treatment, the lower your risk of such problem.
Back acne, or “backne,” may involve blackheads, whiteheads, or pus-filled bumps called cysts.
The treatment for “backne” depends on its severity and may involve over the counter (OTC) products, prescription medications, or treatments such as light therapy.
What Causes “Backne”?
Body acne happens because pores get clogged. Sebaceous glands monitor oil production in your skin, exist on all areas of the body, and can get blocked no matter where they are. Usually, these blockages are caused by dead skin cells that accumulate inside the pore.
The main difference between the pimples, cysts or black or whiteheads on your face and on your body, though, is that inflammation can also occur around hair follicles. It’s called folliculitis and can happen anywhere there is hair.
Another culprit could be something called acne-mechanica, which is caused by friction. It’s particularly common on the back because of things like backpacks, chairs, and gym equipment, which rub against our backs and force sweat and debris down into pores.
How to Treat Back Acne
Because the treatment for folliculitis, acne-mechanica, and normal acne is essentially the same, you don’t need a medical degree to deal with back acne. Salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide, two chemicals that are effective for treating acne on the face, can also treat acne on the body. Keeping the area scrubbed and clean is also necessary.
To avoid perspiration remaining on your skin after working out, always shower as soon as you can and change into dry clothes (bonus points for wearing moisture-wicking workout clothes during your workout). Even after it has cleaned up, keep using skincare products like body washes and exfoliators to prevent recurrence.
READ ALSO: WHY YOU MUST STAY HYDRATED
Other ways to treat “Bacne”
- Exfoliate
Use a gentle exfoliating scrub with ingredients such as salicylic acid to remove extra dirt and oils from your skin. This can help reduce the amount of dead skin that could clog pores. - Wear loose-fitting clothing
Your workout habits can irritate backne. For example, tight clothing can trap dirt and sweat and rub it into your pores. Working out with no shirt against a sweaty gym machine or on a dirty floor, can also cause problems.
Go for loose-fitting clothing that lets your skin breathe and helps kick away sweat. - Try tea tree oil
Tea tree oil is made from the leaves of a tree in Australia. It’s been used by Australians for years to treat a variety of skin issues. 4. Keep hair off your back
Long hair may be adding oil and dirt to the skin on your back, causing acne outbreaks.
Also, don’t allow conditioner or shampoo to run down your back. Ingredients in these products can contribute to clogged pores.
Effective treatments are available, but this condition can be persistent. The pimples and bumps heal slowly, and when one begins to go away, others seem to crop up.
“Backne” is a treatable condition. Most people can get relief by using at-home treatments. However, if yours is severe or the pimples are very large, you might need treatment from a doctor.
