How to Tackle Stubborn Back Acne
- Acne impacts 50 million people in the US, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.
- Back acne (or “bacne”) is a common form of the skin condition.
- Ahead, we break down everything you need to know about back acne, including causes and the best treatments.
While body acne is a reality that millions of people face year-round, there is a lot of stigma and shame that comes from wearing clothing that shows it off in the warmer months. The truth is, no matter how intense your beauty regimen, back acne can flare up at any time, and there are a multitude of reasons from genetics to the products you’re using. But that shouldn’t stop you from wearing a tank top if you choose to.
The first step to treating any breakout is pinning down what’s causing it in the first place. Then, you can go from there to take the necessary next steps to get rid of back acne and keep your skin in the clear. That’s why we’re answering all of your burning questions about the flare-ups on this common area – from common causes, the best back-acne products and treatments, and how to keep it from coming back for good.
What Causes Back Acne?
Back acne, like you might have guessed, is acne that develops on the back area of the body. It can present itself in the form of whiteheads, blackheads, or even cysts, and is often the result of common culprits of any acne including hormones, stress, increased oil production, and dead skin cells caught in the pores. In the summer months specifically, “[it] can be a result of excessive sweating and friction in the area,” dermatologist Rachel Nazarian, MD, previously told POPSUGAR. “Compressive undergarments, lack of showering, and other poor hygiene habits could also be the cause.”
At times, it can be difficult to pin down exactly what is causing acne on the back, but there are a few steps you can take to minimize bacne altogether.