Acne affects four out five people from the ages of 12 to 24 in their lifetime. It is emotionally and psychologically stressful to people and can lead to depression and desperate acts. (1)
Back acne is a form of acne that is different from the usual facial pimples, pustules and nodules. Acne usually affects the face, and sometimes the neck and chest. In other people, pimples and pustules occur on the back.
Like the facial form, there is no single causative factor but researchers believe the formation may be due to the same type of factors. Other factors that are triggers for back acne are specific to this area of the body. These factors include tight clothing that forces perspiration to be trapped against the skin or carrying a heavy bag or back pack will cause irritation along the strap lines and shoulders.
Treatment for back acne includes keeping the skin clean and dry. It is important to take daily showers and especially after a grueling day at work or a strenuous workout. Individuals should also avoid tight fitting clothing, particularly during hot weather. (2)
Back acne can develop into a more severe form of acne that includes cysts or causes skin damage. It is wise to seek out the advice of a dermatologist to minimize scarring and permanent damage.
Use of over the counter medications has been successful in mild to moderate cases. It is also important to adjust your diet to accommodate any changes that happen with poor nutrition. The goal is to minimize the scarring that might result from a serious case of back acne as well as to be able to wear that backless gown or bathing suit without embarrassment.
Cleaning your back is an important part of a good treatment plan. The back is the hardest place on your body to clean and often the most neglected area. Use a mild exfoliating agent when you shower. Be sure your back is scrupulously clean by using a back brush to reach those hard to reach areas. Use the back brush easily so you don’t cause more damage to the area with rough treatment. This will begin the process of keeping those painful spots of pimples away.
Your back is also a place that is neglected when drying off after a dip in the pool or a good exfoliating shower. Moisture that is left on your back encourages clogging of the pores when the dead skin cells are not taken off in the drying process.
Keep your back as germ free as possible by wearing clean airy cotton clothing when you work out. You should also put a clean towel under your back before lying down on an exercise machine. A little known boost to treat acne is to use a steam room right after a workout. A steam room will open your pores even further and help you to clean your skin better when you hit the showers immediately after your workout. (4)
Stubborn back acne is often more difficult to treat than facial acne. Although they are similar, the back acne may require chemical exfoliation or oral antibiotics. Your key factor is to stay clean, dry, and stay away from tight clothing. Experiment with over the counter medications and consult your dermatologist if the condition becomes severe.
Acne may be difficult to deal with but it isn’t impossible. There are treatments to improve the condition and there are things that you can do at home to help improve the condition.
(1) Canadian Family Physician: Psychological Sequelae of Acne Vulgaris http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17273501
(2) Go Ask Alice: BackAcne http://goaskalice.columbia.edu/backne-acne-my-back
(3) National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases http://www.niams.nih.gov/health_info/acne/
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