Back Acne: How to Get Rid of It?

Popularised as ‘bacne’, back acne is much like every other form of acne, except larger and longer-lasting. This is because pores and hair follicles on the back are much larger, making them comparatively easier and faster to clog with dirt, excess sebum (oil), bacteria, and dead skin cells. We have gathered some tips and treatments to ensure your “bacne” never returns.

1- Medication:

• Benzoyl Peroxide found in OTC medicated body washes or as prescription-grade peroxide foam (a milder alternative) can effectively reduce mild to moderate bacne infections within a few weeks of regular in-shower use. For those sensitive to the chemical, a 10% sulfur solution body wash is an adequate alternative.
• Medicated Retinoid Creams applied daily before bed can yield visible results within 4-8 weeks for severe acne cases. Users are, however, advised to limit sun exposure and wear appropriate clothing for the treatment duration, as retinoids increase skin-sensitivity to UV rays.
• Oral Antibiotics such as Tetracycline can help clear deep-rooted infections unreachable via topical medication by eliminating acne-causing bacteria from within, with the normal treatment period lasting between 2-6 months.
• Contraceptive and Hormonal Medication reduces oil production by sebaceous glands in the skin, and hence may prove to be effective for women with hormonal imbalance-related acne. However, their ovulation disrupting abilities make them unsuitable for younger girls.

2- Natural Remedies:

• Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) can dry out and reduce acne breakouts by regulating the skin’s pH and bacteria. Simply spritz a mixture of 1 part ACV and 2 parts water from a spray bottle over the affected area, and drink 2 tablespoons of ACV in a glass of water daily for an inside-out cleanse.
• Tea Tree Oil, a strong antibacterial agent and an excellent bacne remedy for sensitive skin, it can be applied directly via a cotton swab or loofah to unblock clogged skin pores and dry up acne pimples.
• Epsom Salts and Oatmeal are effective natural bacne remedies for oily-skinned individuals, as they dry out oily patches and absorb excess oil. Simply soak in bathwater with 1 cup Epsom salts, or a ½ cup of unflavoured oatmeal for 20-30 minutes daily.

Lifestyle Changes:

• Opt for breathable and loose cotton clothing over spandex, as synthetic fabrics can cause or aggravate acne by trapping oil and moisture generated by sweating during exercise.
• Since excess pressure and friction can infect hair follicles and cause acne, wear a clean cotton shirt under your backpack and avoid going shirtless while exercising.
• Always shower immediately after exercising to avoid the accumulated dirt and sweat from penetrating the skin and causing acne.
• Reduce pore-clogging dead skin cells via a gentle exfoliating body scrub 2-3 times a week while showering. However, avoid strenuous scrubbing, as it can aggravate already affected skin.
• Always keep your hair tied up, particularly after showering and while exercising, as oil and dirt can be transferred from the hair to back.
• Use non-comedogenic (non-pore clogging) shampoos and conditioners, taking care to not let them run down your back while showering, and always apply body wash after washing your hair.
• Wash and change your sheets, pillow covers, and towels every week to clear off the accumulated oil and dead skin cells transferred from your body.
• Scented laundry detergents and fabric softeners are known skin aggravators. Therefore, certain individuals may benefit from replacing them with non-scented or milder ones.
• Due to the presence of a larger number of oil glands, moisturize your back lightly as compared to other body parts to avoid excess oil accumulation.

While back acne is easily treatable, in case of recurring acne breakouts that do not respond to any of the above treatments and measures, consult with your doctor, or book an appointment with a top Dermatologist in Faisalabad, Karachi and Islamabad through oladoc.com, You can also call our helpline at 042-3890-0939 for assistance to find the RIGHT Doctor for your acne-related concerns.