Back acne—bacne—might be out of sight, but the penalty for keeping it out of mind comes in the form of frequent flare-ups and acne scars. While back pimples do not get the same attention as their facial counterparts, they can cause an equal amount of discomfort in everyday life. If you are looking to turn back the clock on bacne, take notes from this dermatologist-approved guide.
What are the common causes of bacne?
According to Dr Madhuri Agarwal, founder of Yavana Aesthetics Clinic, the prevalence of bacne can be linked to a latent tendency in genetics. She explains, “Hormonal changes, such as puberty, can also trigger excessive oil production which clogs the back pores. Poor hygiene is another common cause of bacne, especially post exercise. When you don’t shower or change clothes after exercise, the pores can often get clogged with sweat and bacteria. Synthetic materials, certain laundry detergents and the friction caused by bag straps digging into the skin can also aggravate bacne.” She also believes that workout supplements with whey protein, creatinine and anabolic steroids can also cause bacne.
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What is the best way to get rid of back pimples?
According to the expert, a simple bacne routine can work best, if it is followed consistently. “Use a shower gel with ingredients like salicylic acid, glycolic acid and lactic acid to calm any active acne. Then, use a spot treatment containing benzoyl peroxide and leave it on the affected area,” she recommends. “It is advisable to leave it overnight as the back skin is thicker to penetrate than the face and the treatment also has the possibility of bleaching clothes.”
It is also helpful to apply a ceramide moisturiser at least once a day, preferably at night, to repair the skin barrier and prevent any itching or dryness caused by anti-acne products. “Lastly, don’t forget to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen on the upper back when stepping out as sun exposure can increase oiliness and acne,” she cautions.
Dos and don’ts: Best way to clear bacne
In the war against bacne, it is important to be mindful of the everyday habits that can unintentionally worsen it. Among Dr Agarwal’s list of no-nos is wearing tight-fitting or synthetic clothes, not showering immediately after a workout or when there is excessive sweating, using harsh soaps or drying, astringent products to treat acne, extremely hot water baths or constantly squeezing the back acne. Other crucial tips for bacne include:
Dos:
- Treat new acne immediately and turn your attention to acne scars only once the active acne is in control.
- It is advisable to consult a certified dermatologist to devise a tailored plan to treat bacne properly.
- Ensure that you are changing bed sheets and pillow covers regularly to prevent any build-up of bacteria.
- Use non-comedogenic products for the back to ensure that they don’t further clog the pores.
- The last step is the most crucial. Keep your patience as bacne can take time to reduce.
Don’ts:
- Don’t skip your regular showers, especially after workouts.
- Don’t use physical scrubs or scrub your back with loofahs or body brushes aggressively.
- Don’t pick or scratch at back acne as it can trigger more flare-ups.
- Don’t ignore bacne in the hopes that it will go away on its own or attempt to self-treat it.
Add to cart:
If you are ready to make back pimples a thing of the past, here are the best bacne products that can help you on your quest:
1. Dr. Sheth's Neem & Salicylic Acid Body Wash
2. Beardo B-acne Clear Body Wash, Acne Clear Foam Face wash Combo
3. mCaffeine Green Tea & 1% Salicylic Acid Body Wash for Women & Men Prevents Acne Combo
4. Dr. Sheth's Gulab & Glycolic Acid Body Wash
