HEALTH

Spoiler alert: Breakouts don't just happen on your face! They can also occur on your back, shoulders and chest. Back acne (aka bacne) is caused by the accumulation of sweat and oil in your pores—which can result in whiteheads, blackheads or cysts. These pimples can be tender and uncomfortable. If you have bacne, don't be embarrassed because you're not alone—it's *very* common during puberty. This is why we've created the ultimate guide to treating all of your back blemishes.

Shower daily (especially after exercising)

Over time, bacteria, dirt and oil collect on your skin, which can lead to acne on your face and body. It's *super* important to shower every day to prevent these breakouts. We recommend showering as soon as possible after you exercise (like after gym class), since this is when you are sweating the most. 

When you're showering, make sure to rinse your hair fully of shampoo and conditioner. If not, your fave hair products can clog the sensitive pores on your back, leading to bacne. Try to double-rinse your body to remove all of the product left on your back.

Use an exfoliating acne-fighting body wash

Amazon, $14

One of the easiest ways to tackle your bacne is incorporating an exfoliating body wash into your shower routine. When choosing an acne-fighting body wash, look for ingredients like salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide (these are the most effective in beating stubborn breakouts). 

This CeraVe body wash is an affordable, drugstore option that is dermatologist recommended. Plus, it features powerful ingredients like salicylic and hyaluronic acid and niacinamide that leaves your skin clean and moisturized. This gentle wash helps remove *all* the dead skin cells. To use, apply to your washcloth and rub in small circles on your trouble spots.

Wear clean and loose-fitting clothes

This might seem obvious, but clean clothes are key to keeping your skin free from extra germs and bacteria. Dirty, sweaty clothes aren't good for your back or your bacne. Tight clothes can also trap sweat which can cause bacne (think: sports bras and snug long sleeves). This is why it's so important to shower or change into clean clothes after a workout. Instead, try to wear lighter and more breathable fabrics like cotton or linen (especially during the warmer months). 

Not only can your clothes cause bacne, but your sheets and blankets can too. Remember to wash them every week!

See a dermatologist

If you've been treating your bacne and not getting the results you want, it might be time to see a pro. A dermatologist can help you find a treatment option that's *just* right for you!

Wanting some more skin advice? Check out these articles:
🫧 Get your glowiest skin ever
🫧 How to tackle "strawberry skin"
🫧 These are the best acne treatments (like, ever)

What's your current fave skincare product? Let us know on Twitter @girlslifemag!

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by Maddy Phillips | 6/7/2023