7 Dermatologist-Approved Ways To Get Rid Of Back Acne ASAP

Anyone with acne will know that pesky little whiteheads, cystic spot eruptions and blackheads are the bane of summer skin. But what about those of us who struggle with angry breakouts beyond the realm of our faces? The good news is that if you’re reading this, you’re not alone.

‘Body acne is quite common and can be seen in all ages from teens through adulthood,’ says Dr Alexis Granite. ‘Body acne occurs where the density of oil glands is higher, so is most common over the V of the chest, the shoulders and upper back. Acne is what we call multifactorial, meaning there are a multitude of contributing factors, but genetics, hormones and stress all play a role. Sweating, occlusive clothing, diet and certain products and medications may also contribute.’

From bacne (acne on your back) to buttne (acne on your backside) body spots, this is how to treat body acne according to professional dermatologists.

Everything You Need To Know About Treating Back Acne

What causes back acne?

We may be used to be discussing acne on our faces but on our backs is a different story. There are a range of reasons you might be suffering from the skin condition.

‘Back acne is typically caused by a build up of oils and dead skin cells in and around pores. The pores can become clogged and attract bacteria which thrives. This causes leads to an inflammatory response of the skin causing pustules and bumps,’ explains Dr Adwoa Danso, NHS GP Doctor.

If you do suffer from back acne, you’ll have likely noticed it starting around the time your hormones kick in. ‘Back acne onset predominantly starts from puberty and it tends to effect boys and men more,’ says Dr Vanita Rattan.

Because it’s linked to our hormones, some might be more prone to the condition than others. ‘Individuals with oily skin or suffer with hormonal disorders like polycystic ovarian syndrome are more prone to acne,’ believes Dr Danso.

Is face acne different to back acne?

‘Acne lesions may arise as comedones (open and/or closed which correspond to whiteheads and blackheads), papules and pustules (red, inflamed bumps that may develop pus) and deeper nodules and cysts,’ says Dr Granite. ‘All of these forms may occur on both the face and the body. More severe forms of acne can cause scarring on the chest and back just as they can on the face.’

Does where you get body acne mean something?

This is a bit of a myth, according to Dr Granite, however she notes that it is definitely worth paying attention to if your spots are flaring post workouts from sweating or wearing occlusive clothing. ‘If that appears to be the case, try to shower and change clothes as soon as possible.’

How To Get Rid Of Back Acne

As debilitating as body acne can be (we feel you), you don’t have to swerve plans or cover up completely, because ELLE has enlisted one of the best dermatologists in the business to help banish the breakouts. Here’s how to get rid of back acne or body acne once and for all.

1. Swap Out Your Current Body Wash

That ultra-creamy, coconut-scented shower gel may feel seriously luxe, but if it doesn’t contain zit-zapping ingredients such as salicylic acid (a BHA that exfoliates the skin’s surface layer and unblocks pores of sebum and dead skin), glycolic acid (an AHA that dissolves the upper layer of dead skin cells to prevent spots and to blur red marks left behind by acne), and lactic acid (also an AHA with the same skin-smoothing, spot-preventing credentials as glycolic acid, just a little gentler on skin), then it might not be doing your body acne any good.

‘Acids like these prevent dead skin cells from building up and blocking your pores,’ explains London-based consultant dermatologist, Dr. Justine Kluk. ‘And remember, cleanse your skin thoroughly in the shower every day.’

2. Shower Immediately After A Workout

‘The bacteria responsible for causing acne thrive on sweaty skin,’ explains Dr. Kluk. ‘It’s important to remove your gym clothes and shower as soon as possible after a workout.’

Even if you haven’t had a hard core work out, cleaning off any sweat is key. ‘Shower immediately after sweating. Acne isn’t related to cleanliness but we certainly know that sweat can aggravate the skin. Hair shampoos and conditioners can leave residue on your back which can clog pores and cause bacne. Take extra care when rinsing hair and gently wash the back after hair washing ‘ says Dr Danso.

That means no sitting on the end of your bed, scrolling through Instagram, trying to muster up the energy to jump in. We’re talking ASAP, people.3. Use A Scrub Pre-Shower

‘If you get lots of under the skin spots or blackheads, using a scrub a couple of times a week in the shower may be effective,’ advises Dr. Kluk. ‘But, always be gentle and don’t rub your skin raw as this can increase inflammation.’ Ouch.

how to get rid of back acne

4. Choose The Right Body Moisturiser

You don’t have to give up the moisturiser to keep breakouts at arms length – just make sure you choose the right one – that means ditching the thick creams.

‘Applying a moisturiser will soothe and repair your skin barrier, but make sure that any products you leave on your skin are labelled ‘non-comedogenic,’ advises Dr. Kluk. ‘This means that they won’t clog your pores.’

It’s also important to be aware of oils. ‘Some oil based products can cause acne, switching to ‘lighter’ creams is beneficial. Benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, glycolic acid containing products are recommended treatments,’ explains Dr Danso.

5. Use A Topical Treatment Instead Of Picking

As tempting as it may be to pretend you’re Dr. Pimple Popper, try and avoid picking when it comes to body acne.

‘Whatever you do, don’t pick, squeeze or scratch your spots,’ says Dr. Kluk. ‘This can introduce infection and lead to scarring. Instead, apply a benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid gel to juicy spots.’

Picking nearly always leads to pigmentation too, which is stubborn to get rid of. ‘For skin of colour the main long term issue is the pigmentation that’s left behind, this is why it’s essential for skin of colour to break the acne cycle early,’ advises Dr Rattan.

You can buy benzoyl peroxide creams, such as Acnecide and Duac, over the counter. They kill bacteria that leads to acne, but do have a tendency to dry the skin out. If that puts you off…

6. Carry Spare Clothing

We know that excessive sweat and bacteria can lead to blocked pores, especially bacne, so, Dr. Kluk suggests carrying a spare, clean top with you if you tend to perspire more in warmer weather.

‘It’s also best to wash underwear, like your bra, after every wear,’ she adds.

It’s also worth switching up tighter clothing for a larger size too. ‘Wear loose fitting clothes as you don’t want to irritate the sensitive and inflamed skin,’ says Dr Rattan.

If you suffer from uncomfortable or painful body cysts, opting for a loose t-shirt can help to reduce your symptoms too.

‘Loose fitting clothing can help prevent chafing and rubbing against tender lesions,’ says Dr Granite. ‘Applying a plaster to one or two very sore lesions as needed can also help with friction, but really it’s the OTC preparations such as salicylic acid or prescription medication that will help treat painful back acne as well as prevent it.’

how to get rid of back acne

7. Visit A Dermatologist

‘If you’ve tried all of these things and are still struggling to get on top of your breakouts or are aware of developing scars, see a dermatologist who can advise you on prescription treatment,’ advises Dr. Kluk.

Oral prescriptions are a great option and include: Spironolactone, which has anti-androgen effects to block male hormone testosterone and excessive oil production in female acne sufferers and Isotretinoin AKA Roaccutane – a vitamin A-derived oral medication, which suppresses excess oil production, kills acne bacteria and helps shed dead skin cells, preventing blocked pores.