How to Remove Back Acne

Acne is common but often distressing, leaving people self-conscious about their appearance and frustrated when they can’t figure out why it persists.

According to the NHS, half of everyone who suffers from acne also gets it on their back. 

The overproduction of sebum and dirt, as well as dead skin cells or ingrown hair follicles, can clog your sebaceous glands, leading to acne. When bacteria living on the skin infect these trapped hair follicles, it leads to infection and pus-filled pimples. 

Back acne can be painful and lead to scars and spots, making it both uncomfortable and unsightly, especially when you’re wearing clothing where your back can be seen.

Whilst we don’t strictly treat back acne at The Blemish Clinic, in this article, we explore the various acne treatment options so you can achieve clearer skin and become more confident in yourself. 

Causes for Back Acne

Before we look into the best ways to remove back acne, let’s first touch on what causes it. 

Acne can affect different areas on your back, like at the nape of your neck, near the shoulders, or the lower back. You might notice whiteheads, blackheads, papules, and cysts. When acne doesn’t heal properly, it can lead to scarring. 

Some of the most common causes of “bacne” include:

• Sweat trapped in pores: If you’re someone who sweats excessively from exercise, or you spend a lot of time outdoors, excess sebum can clog your pores.

  
  

• Constant friction with clothes: When you’re wearing tight clothing that rubs against your skin, it can cause irritation and lead to breakouts. Using a backpack or sporting equipment like a harness can also lead to “bacne”, especially if you’re doing an activity that causes you to sweat.

  
  

• Hormonal fluctuations: Hormonal changes during puberty, pregnancy, or menopause can aggravate acne. During puberty, back acne is common among young boys. 

  
  

• Stress: Stress, lack of sleep, and lifestyle issues can aggravate acne symptoms.

  
  

• Having a genetic predisposition: If someone in the family has also had back acne, you’re more likely to experience it too.

  
  

• Poor hygiene: Poor hygiene standards can aggravate acne and pimples. 

  
  

5 Ways to Remove Back Acne and Related Spots

If you’re wondering how to clear your back acne fast, you might also be looking for what you can do to treat your skin at home.

Here are some solutions for how to remove back spots caused by acne and pimple:

1. Exfoliate

Is your shower routine just some soap and water? It might be time to add a cleanser or exfoliator containing salicyclic acid or benzoyl peroxide to your regimen. This can not only help remove dead skin cells and dirt plugging the pores, but also reduce inflammation.

Let the benzoyl peroxide sit for a few minutes when using it for your back, as the skin is much tougher and thicker than on your face. Then, wash the area thoroughly with water. You can talk to a dermatologist or even find these ingredients in OTC skincare products.

2. Hygiene Practices

Good hygiene is one of the best ways to remove back acne. This includes taking regular showers, especially after you’ve done a workout. The sooner you take a shower after exercise, the better, as it prevents sweat and bacteria from accumulating in your pores. 

You should also immediately wash your sweaty gym clothes and not rewear them. 

Clean bed linen is another good hygiene practice to avoid getting acne. Wash your bedsheets and pillow covers every few days, especially if you’re experiencing an active acne flare. 

If you have long hair, keep it off your back, especially during workout sessions. Your hair might be contributing to excess dirt and oil on the skin, leading to breakouts.

3. Wearing Loose-fitting Clothes

While form-fitting clothes might look good, they’re not the ideal solution for your “bacne”. Tight clothes cause friction between your skin and the fabric.

Wearing loose-fitting clothes made from organic materials allows your skin to breathe and prevents acne. Always choose moisture-wicking clothes for your workouts. 

4. Using the Right Skincare Products

When you’re going for an outdoor swim or attending an event, you’ll need to wear sunscreen on your exposed skin, especially if your back is bare. But the type of sunscreen you use here is important for your skin hygiene. Use a non-comedogenic or oil-free moisturiser on your body, which hydrates your skin without clogging your pores. 

Make sure you read the fine print on skincare products before you buy them. 

Contact The Blemish Clinic for Blemish Removal

Lifestyle changes, such as following a healthy diet, drinking an adequate amount of water, and managing stress and anxiety, are some standard ways to remove back acne. But if these changes aren’t enough, you might want to consider visiting a dermatologist. 

Whilst we don’t treat acne at The Blemish Clinic, our skin specialists can remove skin blemishes, like warts and milia, using advanced electrolysis. For confidentiality reasons and for your safety, we only offer pre-booked appointments. Book yours today!