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, not to mention a little embarrassing to show off with your summer wardrobe.
Here’s the thing: Bacne is super common during puberty, as your hormones are changing. But that doesn’t mean you can’t treat it. We’ve got the ultimate guide to curing 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. Shower at laest once a day, and as soon as possible after you exercise or sweat.
When you’re showering, make sure to rinse your hair fully of shampoo and conditioner, then wash your body last. If not, your fave hair products can clog the sensitive pores on your back.
Using a hair mask that requires a few minutes of leave-in time? Clip your hair up in a claw clip so the greasy formula doesn’t touch your back.
Use an exfoliating acne-fighting body wash
One of the easiest ways to tackle your bacne is by 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). To use, apply to a clean washcloth and rub in small circles on your trouble spots. For best results, let the body wash sit on your skin for a couple of minutes before rinsing.
Try: PanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash with 10% Benzoyl Peroxide, $9
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. Tight clothes can also trap sweat, which can cause breakouts (think: sports bras and snug long sleeves). 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, or even more frequently if you tend to be a sweaty sleeper.
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 and the type of acne you’re dealing with, whether that’s an oral prescription or topical cream.
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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Top image: @megs_skin
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