6 Ways You Can Clear Back Acne At Home

Many people think of acne as something that only occurs on the face. Yet, clogged pores can happen anywhere on the body. For most people who experience body acne, their breakouts will be on their backs.

Back acne, also called bacne, can be very frustrating. The good news is that there are many ways to treat back acne that you can begin at home. Anytime you are experiencing a skin condition including acne breakouts, it is recommended that you still visit a board-certified dermatologist to discuss your treatment options. In the meantime, review the 6 tips below to begin ridding your back of acne breakouts. 

How To Treat Back Acne

Many cases of acne breakouts on your back can be treated on your own. If you are experiencing a severe case of acne that has been persistent, you should immediately schedule an appointment with your dermatologist.

Use benzoyl peroxide body wash.

Swap out your regular soap or body wash with a facial cleanser or body cleanser that contains benzoyl peroxide. Benzoyl peroxide is an effective bacteria-killer that can begin the healing process and prevent new breakouts from occurring.

Use a gentle scrub brush with a long handle to apply the benzoyl peroxide solution to the affected areas. Be sure to scrub gently yet completely and leave the product on the skin for several minutes. This allows the product to penetrate into the thicker skin of the back. Be sure to rinse the product thoroughly before using a towel or putting on clothing, since benzoyl peroxide can bleach clothing.

Apply benzoyl peroxide treatment lotion. 

In addition to using a benzoyl peroxide wash in the shower, you should apply a thin layer of a low-percentage, over-the-counter benzoyl peroxide product to the affected areas. If you do not have someone that can apply the lotion for you, consider purchasing a lotion applicator from an online retailer. 

Start with a low dosage and gradually work your way up if you do not notice any negative reaction or extreme dryness.

Keep your skin care simple. 

Apart from using the benzoyl peroxide products described above, you should be sure to keep your skin care simple. Avoid thick, heavy creams or body butters that could clog pores. Choose non-comedogenic products that are good for sensitive or acne-prone skin.

Avoid applying too many treatment products at one time. This usually irritates the skin and can cause extreme dryness or more breakouts. Skip harsh exfoliants and astringents that strip the skin of its natural oils.

Keep your skin clean and dry. 

Living in hot and humid Atlanta, you may sweat frequently. Whether you are going about your day-to-day or working out, a wet shirt stuck to your back can prevent the sweat from drying, causing the perfect conditions for bacteria to flourish. 

Avoid wearing tight fitting clothing or dirty clothing that can trap the sweat and bacteria that will clog your pores. Shower immediately after a workout. If you are unable to take a shower after your workout, purchase a pack of cleansing wipes that are safe for sensitive skin.

Continue to wear sun protection.

Any area of your skin that is exposed to the sun should be protected by a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or more. This includes your back and shoulders. Apply a non-comedogenic sunscreen to your back every day. Sun exposure can actually make your breakouts worse. UV rays can darken acne spots and scars leaving hyperpigmentation. 

Work with a dermatologist.

Although these at home treatments can help clear your back acne, an appointment with your dermatologist is an important part of the process. Your doctor will help you understand the causes of your breakouts, assess your health history and provide you with a customized plan. Dr. Straughn has helped thousands of patients over her career get the clear and healthy skin they deserve. 

Back Acne Dermatologist Atlanta Georgia

Back acne can be frustrating and embarrassing, but it does not have to be a permanent condition. There are plenty of treatments that you can start at home. By following the tips above and scheduling an appointment with Dr. Straughn at Buckhead Dermatology, you can begin an effective treatment plan to clear your back acne quickly.

Contact Buckhead Dermatology in Atlanta or College Park to schedule your appointment today.