An over-production of naturally generated oil (sebum) by the sebaceous glands on the back and shoulders when mixed with the dead skin cells clogs pores, resulting in back acne.

In this post, we will cover

Back acne or bacne as short, can be an unpleasant experience. The self-consciousness it causes and the pain it endures surely contribute to the misery. So, if you are someone constantly searching for ways to treat your bacne, you have landed in the very right place.

Understanding the causes of back acne is a part of the treatment, it allows you to formulate an effective strategy for its prevention. So, let’s first cover the reasons you are breaking out.

What causes back acne?

Back acne can be caused by multiple reasons:

Sweat

The mixture of sweat and dead skin cells with oil that is naturally produced by your body creates a breeding ground for bacteria (Cutibacterium acnes (C. acnes)). This thriving bacteria irritates the skin and causes acne.

Friction Caused by Clothes

If you wear tight clothes or regularly wear a backpack, the friction caused due to rubbing on the skin can cause irritation and trigger bacne. 

Poor Diet Habits

Foods with high glycemic index (GI) like processed sugar and high carbohydrate foods cause rapid spikes in the glucose (blood sugar) levels in the body.

To regulate the sugar spike insulin is produced in the body which can potentially trigger the production of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) hormone. This hormone is responsible for the overproduction of the oil (sebum). As already established, extra oil on the skin causes acne.

Hormones

During menstruation or puberty, the androgen hormone increases, which in turn increases the sebum production in the skin. The hormone released in the body stimulates the sebaceous glands on your back and over-produces sebum.

Genetics

Genetics is also one of the reasons you might have constant outbreaks on your back. If one of the parents has back acne, the likelihood of the child to have acne increases. 

Stress

The hormones triggered by stress in day-to-day life can also be a potential reason you have back acne.

How to Treat Back Acne?

Acne has a global lifetime prevalence between 70-85%, affecting nearly all teenagers and many adult females as well, says a 2021 study. 

Back acne is a more common issue than you think and there are many effective ways you can be breakout-free.

Here are some effective treatments for back acne:

Benzoyl Peroxide

A topical usage of benzoyl peroxide can help you with your back acne. Benzoyl peroxide is an over-the-counter (OTC) medication and is an FDA-approved prescription for acne vulgaris.

This ingredient kills bacteria that causes acne and helps unclog pores. The product comes in different strengths, it is best if you use 5.3% as it's less likely to cause irritation or inflammation on the skin. 

Salicylic Acid 

This beta hydroxy acid (BHA) is well known for its exfoliation properties. If you have sensitive skin use SA for back acne. 

A 2022 published study shredded light on how a 30% SSA (supramolecular salicylic acid) peel reduces moderate-to-severe acne vulgaris.

Retinoids 

Topical usage of retinoids like tretinoin or adapalene is said to be effective on the acne-prone skin. To minimise dryness on the areas you use retinoids, follow the routine with a moisturiser.

Be Summer Ready!

For someone who sweats a lot knows the wrath of summers more than anyone. And as discussed earlier, sweat has a bigger role in back acne than you might realise. So the best way to escape the recurrence of back acne caused due to sweat is to wear cotton or linen fabrics. 

Studies have shown the relationship between the fabric we use as clothes and skin irritation and allergies. 

It is also recommended to wear loose-fittings so your skin does not rub on the cloth making it irritate the skin and make sure to change the clothes immediately after heavy sweating.

Make changes in your diet

Your diet might be a potential contributing factor to the ordeal you are experiencing. Minimise the consumption of processed sugar like sugary drinks and fast food. 

It is important to choose wisely when it comes to food, as you need low-glycemic foods like fruits, vegetables, beans and whole grains. 

There are several studies showing a relation of the diet and acne. 

Professional Treatments

If the severity of your back acne is increasing and if you are experiencing pain, plus the duration of the acne has significantly exceeded, it is recommended to consult a professional. The exact reason for the condition is crucial to treat it.

References 

1. Shao, X., Chen, Y., Zhang, L., Zhang, Y., Ariyawati, A., Chen, T., Chen, J., Liu, L., Pu, Y., Li, Y., & Chen, J. (2022). Effect of 30% Supramolecular Salicylic Acid Peel on Skin Microbiota and Inflammation in Patients with Moderate-to-Severe Acne Vulgaris. Dermatology and Therapy, 13(1), 155-168.

2. Broadhead, R., Craeye, L., & Callewaert, C. (2021). The Future of Functional Clothing for an Improved Skin and Textile Microbiome Relationship. Microorganisms, 9(6), 1192.