Back acne, also known as "bacne," is a common skin condition characterized by the presence of acne lesions (such as pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads) on the back.
Similar to acne on the face, back acne occurs due to the interaction between various factors, including excess oil production, clogged hair follicles, bacteria (such as Propionibacterium acnes), and inflammation.
What causes breakouts?
The sebaceous glands on the back produce an oily substance called sebum, which helps keep the skin moisturized.
When the production of sebum is excessive, it can mix with dead skin cells and block the hair follicles, leading to the formation of acne.
Bacteria that naturally live on the skin, like P. acnes, can then colonize these blocked follicles and trigger an immune response, resulting in inflammation and the formation of acne lesions.
Factors that may contribute to the development of back acne include:
hormonal imbalances, especially during puberty or hormonal fluctuations in adults
sweating (try the new clarifying body spray after PE or your gym session)
friction from tight clothing or backpack straps
poor hygiene, like not showering daily
certain medications, check with your GP
genetic predisposition, does it run in your family? Check with your parents if they struggled with back or chest acne as a teenager
Additionally, some lifestyle factors like poor hygiene, not showering immediately after excessive sweating, and using irritating or pore-clogging products on the skin can exacerbate back acne.
How can we treat it?
Treatment options for back acne include topical medications containing ingredients like benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or retinoids, which help reduce oil production and unclog the follicles.
In more severe cases, oral medications like antibiotics or isotretinoin may be prescribed.
How can we prevent it?
Maintaining good personal hygiene:
regularly washing the back with a gentle cleanser
avoid harsh scrubbing and bathing in hot water, use warm water instead
wear breathable clothing can also help prevent and manage back acne
change your sheets weekly
wear clean PE or gym kit for each workout
if you can't shower right after your workout or sports practise then try spraying the clarifying body spray to help prevent clogged pores
Say goodbye to breakouts with this perfect gym bag hero! Use it after PE, your sports practise or game, on the go or after a workout. The clarifying body spray is a fast acting breakout-fighting mist that works on those hard to reach areas. It's great paired up with the Clear Start breakout clearing foaming wash
A foaming wash that deep cleans and purifies the skin. It can be used both as a facial cleansing wash and a body wash. If you need additional zit zapper treatment, try the breakout dream team. The breakout clearing booster is a zit zapper whilst the post breakout fix helps to heals spots and fade post breakout marks.
Read other articles about back acne https://www.orchidsretreat.co.uk/post/therapist-thursday-conversations-with-a-skin-expert-back-acne
If you'd like to book a virtual or in person consultation, please visit our website www.orchidsretreat.co.uk
Thank you for reading ~ Diana x
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