How To Prevent & Treat Back Acne (“Bacne”)
September 19, 2022
Acne is primarily determined by genetics.
However, that does not mean acne battlers cannot take steps to reduce the risk of blemish recurrences and keep breakouts at bay. If you suffer from back acne (“bacne”), this article will be your ultimate guide to eradicating pesky bacne for good with its list of prevention and treatment tips.
Tips To Prevent Back Acne (“Bacne”)
Avoid Acne-Triggering Medications
Certain medications that involve androgens, like male hormones, and drugs like Lithium are known to increase your likelihood of developing acne. Consult your doctor to enquire about alternative treatment plans that do not involve forming breakouts as an undesired side effect.
Use Non-Comedogenic Body Products
Opt for body care products labelled “non-comedogenic”. Non-comedogenic products are less likely to clog the pores on your back so they greatly reduce the likelihood of triggering acne flare-ups. Avoid harsh antibacterial soaps, astringents and abrasive body scrubs that can damage the protective barrier of your skin and worsen bacne.
Reduce Sweat & Friction On Your Back
Acne Mechanica is a term used to describe blemishes that form as a result of sweat and friction. This is a common phenomenon among athletes who wear sports gear that create friction on their backs. Wherever possible, use a lightweight backpack that fits well on your back and avoid wearing athletic gear like shoulder pads longer than you have to.
Post-Workout Hygiene
Shower immediately after exercising as heat and humidity encourage bacteria growth which can lead to inflammatory pimples. If you are unable to shower after working out, use cleansing wipes to remove sweat from your body before changing into a clean set of clothes. Do not reuse dirty clothes as they can transfer sweat, oil and dirt onto your skin.
Wash Your Bedsheets
Change and wash your bedsheets at least once or twice a week if you suffer from bacne. This helps to remove bacteria and prevent dead skin cells from building up on your linen which can transfer onto your skin and clog pores.
Tips To Treat Back Acne (“Bacne”)
Over-The-Counter Bacne Treatments
Mild to moderate cases of bacne and be treated with over-the-counter products that contain acne-fighting ingredients like Benzoyl Peroxide, Salicylic Acid, Tea Tree Oil and Sulfur. You may need the assistance of someone to apply treatment products onto your back.
Alternatively, use a medicated body wash formulated with anti-blemish ingredients. “Regular body washes aren’t strong enough to help with body acne. To have a real effect, you need a medicated body cleanser, preferably with ingredients like salicylic acid that can unclog your skin pores and kill acne bacteria,” says dermatologist Yoram Harth.
Don’t Pick On Back Acne
Picking or popping back pimples can worsen acne and damage your skin. The skin on your body heals slower than the skin on your face, so frequent picking can lead to spots and scars.
Avoid Sun Exposure
Apply sunscreen on your back and wear clothing to shield it from harmful sun rays wherever possible. UV radiation can weaken your skin barrier which may impede your skin’s ability to heal itself. Photo damage can also darken post-inflammatory scarring on your back.
Consult A Dermatologist
If your back acne persists for longer than 10 weeks or if you have severe forms of bacne, it is best to seek the advice of a dermatologist who will be able to examine your back to check if you are indeed battling with acne or another underlying skin condition. Dermatologists may prescribe acne creams, antibiotics or laser treatments to help you better manage your condition.
Even though back acne is easier to hide than facial blemishes, it does not mean that you have to live with it. Follow our tips to prevent and treat bacne so you can welcome a clearer and healthier complexion in no time!
Follow us
more interesting reads
