Bacne (which is acne on your back ) is caused by an accumulation of dead skin cells and oil (known as sebum) within the pores, combined with common skin bacteria. When they come together, it leads to inflammation and blemishes similar to facial acne.
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Why does Bacne appear?
Your skin type and gender can also be a factor when it comes to whether you’re bacne prone or not. Typically, bacne may appear on the upper back and shoulders, as these areas contain more oil glands compared to the lower back, and due to higher testosterone levels leading to more oily skin, men are more likely to experience bacne than women, as they naturally have higher levels of testosterone,
It’s not just oilier skin on our backs that increases the incidence of bacne, it’s also the thickness of the skin in this area too. “Thicker skin tends to have larger pores which are more susceptible to being compacted with sebum and debris, ultimately leading to acne and blackheads,
However, this doesn’t mean that women are immune. In fact, hormonal fluctuations prior to your menstrual period can trigger increased oil production in the sebaceous glands – including those on your back.
In addition, if you have been diagnosed with conditions such as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) you may also be prone to bacne due to the higher levels of testosterone.
What other factors cause bacne?
Hormonal and textural issues aside, there are a variety of factors that you might develop bacne
Environmental factors
Bacne can get worse during the summer as you sweat more.
The rise in temperature during summer months also prompts your body to increase sebum production, and if this excess oil is not addressed may experience an increase in acne.
Other contributing factors of bacne
Genetics, medication, exercise, clothing, and pore-blocking hair products dripping down your back post-shower can aggravate this condition causing your back to become more prone to breakouts.
So how is Bacne treated?
Firstly, remember to treat the skin on your back as you would your face, and don’t be tempted to be more aggressive just because the acne is on your body. Implementing a thorough cleansing, exfoliating, and hydrating routine for your back is vital, just as you should with the skin on your face.
At home treatments
Exfoliating is an important part of your skincare routine to remove dead skin cells to manage your bacne. Physical exfoliators such as the Frank Body Charcoal Body Scrub & Mask a two-in-one charcoal-infused masks and scrub for the body. Suitable for all skin types, this gentle exfoliating formula works to remove impurities and buffs away dead skin cells. Skin is left soft, smooth, and incredibly hydrated.
Benefits of Frank Body Charcoal Body Scrub & Mask:
- Charcoal – Deep cleansing ingredient to draw out impurities that cause breakouts and acne (sweat, bacteria, excess oil) for clear, even skin.
- Tea Tree Oil – Anti-inflammatory, the secret to fighting off body breakouts.
- Caffeine – Firms and tightens the skin.
- Grapeseed Oil – Works its magic on oily and acne-prone skin. Hydrates moisturizes, and evens skin tone.
- Milk Thistle Oil – Rich in antioxidants to block out free radicals and help put a stop to premature ageing.
Products such as cleansers and lotions containing acids may also help, These chemical exfoliators aid in decongesting the skin removing bacteria and unclogging pores.
Body cleansers that can help the symptoms of bacne such as Medica Forte The Perfect Body Wash offer complete body exfoliation with 15% glycolic acid to brighten, smooth and correct imperfections. it Combats body acne, blemishes, and discoloration by removing dead skin cells and debris with Medica Forte The Perfect Body Wash. The Perfect Body Wash contains a strong concentration of Glycolic Acid to exfoliate the skin by removing dead skin cells and debris. In combination with Azelaic Acid, skin is brightened and inflammation is reduced. It also has added antioxidants, such as Glutathione and Vitamin E, to protect skin cells from free radical damage. Niacinamide and Aloe Vera soothe skin and promote the healing of inflamed skin such as acne and rosacea. A great addition to your skincare routine.
For Cleansers with BHA, the CeraVe Blemish Control Cleanser with Salicylic Acid & Niacinamide for Blemish-Prone Skin offers a great affordable option as part of your skincare routine. it has been expertly developed with Dermatologists for blemish-prone skin types. This gentle formulation contains 3 Essential Ceramides, Salicylic Acid, and Niacinamide that gently exfoliate dead skin cells that can clog pores and cause blemishes. Created with innovative oil-absorbing technology with Hectorite Clay, this refreshing cleanser removes dirt, and excess oil, and minimizes shine for a balanced, purified complexion
Benefits Of CeraVe Blemish Control Cleanser:
- Removes dirt and excess oil
- Gently exfoliates
- Minimises shine
it’s vital that sunscreen such as Ultrasun Body Mineral SPF 50, is incorporated into your skincare routine to avoid the risk of acne scarring due to pigmentation. This is 100% mineral sun protection in a fast-absorbing, non-greasy and non-sticky formula with additional protection against Infrared and High Energy Visible light with innovative ingredient InfraGuard for total protection. It’s suitable for all skin types including ultra-sensitive skin.
to relieve the symptoms of back acne, consider wearing clothes made from breathable materials like cotton, silk, merino wool, linen, and even polyester. Try to shower immediately after workouts to remove sweat and dirt and stop them from clogging pores, and be sure to change bedding and towels regularly too.
In-clinic treatments:
While a good and consistent at-home routine is vital, teaming it with in-clinic treatments can speed up results.In the clinic, treatments such as chemical peels offer a great option for addressing acne. Chemical peels can really improve the texture, and smooth out acne-scarred skin. Lasers are also available to manage body acne.
Blue light therapy is also another excellent option. The wavelength of blue light has an antimicrobial effect, killing acne-causing bacteria, Cutibacterium Acnes, as well as other spot-causing bacteria strains. Blue light also reduces the activity in the sebaceous glands – minimizing oil production that would otherwise block pores.
Oxygen/Exfoliation Treatments. This is an extremely popular treatment in my clinic with the concept of physiological oxygenation to create a hostile environment for the bacteria to survive as bacteria love to live in an anaerobic (No oxygen) environment. In addition, specifically targeted acne formulations are used to exfoliate and infuse the skin simultaneously.
Keep glowing and stay amazing