Back acne(aka bacne) canpopup for lots of different reasons. Here’s a rundown of the most common causes ofacne on your back. We also have the deets on the best treatment options, plus tips on how to prevent futurebreakouts.
What causes back acne?
Backacneis whenzitsbreakout on your back. The basic cause is when oils and debris mix with skin cells andbacteria. This mixture of gunk can clog your pores and lead to those peskypimpleswe all know and hate.
Here are some other reasons why you might have a back breakout:
Different types of back acne
Here’s a rundown of the most commontypes of back acne.
Whiteheads (aka closed comedones)
These littlebuggersform when dead skin cells, bacteria, and oil get trapped inside a closed pore. This causes a raised white bump with areddishor discolored border.
Blackheads (aka open comedones)
Blackheadsare a lot like whiteheads, expect the pore is open. The yucky stuff inside turns black when exposed to oxygen. They’re uber common on the T-zone and chin, but you can also get them on your back.
Papules occur when the pore walls break down due to inflammation. They tend to be pretty painful and can cause hard, red or discolored bumps.
Pustules may look like whiteheads, but they’re usually larger and more severe.
Nodules are hard, inflamed, and usuallypainfulpimples that that form deep in the skin. They don’t have a head, but you might notice an inflamed bump on your skin. Over-the-counter (OTC) acne remedies don’t always work on nodules. So, you might need to ask your doc for an Rx-grade treatment.
Like nodules,cystic acneforms under the skin. It sometimes looks like a boil, but can also be a puss-filled red or discolored bump. They’re very tender to the touch and don’t always go away on their own.
How to treat back acne
Are you ready to send those pesky pimples packing? Here’s a rundown of the bestback acne treatmentsfor your unique skin sitch.
Popping PSA: We knowpopping pimplescan be satisfying AF. Just keep in mind, squeezing your zits can leave you withacne scarsordark spots. It can also up the chance of an infection.
Can you prevent back acne?
You can’t prevent every pimple and pustule. But there are lots of effective techniques you can try to reduce the severity and rate of flare-ups.
1. Exfoliate
Exfoliationcan help remove dead skin cells, oils, and other debris that can cause back acne. Just keep in mind, you don’t have to go buck wild andexfoliatetil your skin hurts. A gentlebody scrub, or a lightchemical exfoliantcan be great options that are easy on the skin.
2. Keep it clean
Try to take ashowerafter youexercise. All of that oil and sweat you produce when you work out can lead to a breakout. You can opt for a body wash that has natural acne-reducing abilities.Tea tree oilandvolcanic ashare both popular choices. Oh, and don’t forget to pat your back dry with a clean towel when you’re done.
3. Rinse your hair in front of you
Shampooandconditionerthat doesn’t get washed off your back can clog your pores. A good workaround is tipping your head forward when you lather, rinse, repeat. Another option is to cleanse your back after youwash your hairto ensure no residue is left behind.
4. Eat a nutritious diet
While it can def play a part, diet usually isn’t the main cause of acne. But filling your plate with lots of nutrient-rich, tasty nom noms can’t hurt. Following alow glycemic dietmighthelp keep your bacne at bay. Some peeps also see results by reducing theirdairyand sugar intakes.
5. Pick the right products
Opt fornoncomedogenicskin care products that are less likely to clog your pores. Your best bet might be water-basedcreams, and cleansers, andlotionsthat don’t have added oils.
Psst. attempt to steer clear of brands that contain harsh chemicals or fragrances. These ingredients can irritate and inflame the skin.
Back acne happens when a mix of oils, dead skin cells, bacteria, and other debris clog the pores on your back. It’s super common and nothing to be ashamed of. you’re able to usually treat minor bacne with OTC cleansers and products. But if your pimples are stubborn or severe, your dermatologist might prescribe an Rx oral medication or topical treatment.
