The Trouble with Back Acne

Although facial acne is more common, acne can develop anywhere on the body and the back is a no exception. Back acne can occur in both teens and adults.

Because the back has thousands of pores it is very possible for acne to develop. Back acne can be any of the following: pimples, blackheads, whiteheads or cysts. Unfortunately, these conditions can be more severe and more difficult to treat than facial acne. For some, back acne can even be painful or itchy.

Back acne can be caused in teens because of the hormonal changes but also because of back packs which they wear to school. The rubbing of the straps on the shoulders and back can cause irritation to the skin resulting in acne. Sweat can also be a major contributor, therefore shower immediately after working out or any activity that causes excessive sweating. Wearing tight clothing traps the sweat and can worsen back acne. Avoid cotton because this fabric tends to stick to sweaty skin. Switching to synthetic materials can be helpful.

A few other options would be trying a gentler clothes detergent and changing bed sheets often.

The skin on the back is much thicker than facial skin; therefore the treatments are often stronger and more aggressive. These treatments should not be used for the face. Benzoyl peroxide can be used at 10% for the back, but at this strength it is possible to "bleach" clothing after applying.

A stronger acne cleanser may be used although if it makes the back acne worse then try a gentler cleanser. It is important to also use an exfoliant to remove the dead skin cells. Too much scrubbing however is not recommended for this can aggravate the acne. Glycolic and salicylic acids found in over the counter products are also helpful in fighting back acne.

If money is not an option a trip to a spa for a back acne treatment is very beneficial. (These treatments can start at $70 for an hour.) Of course all the products in the treatment will be geared toward fighting acne, going to a professional is much more relaxing and effortless compared to cleansing, exfoliating and applying a mask at home. There are various product lines that estheticians use, but it is guaranteed the products will contain stronger concentrations of acne fighting ingredients than over the counter products.

If the acne continues for more than a month or if it becomes uncomfortable a visit to a dermatologist is recommended.