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Tips to Help Banish Back Acne for Good

By December 19, 2017May 11th, 2023Dermatology, Skin Care

Whiteheads, blackheads, and cysts are often associated with the face, but many people also experience blemishes on the shoulders and back. Back acne, or bacne, requires a specialized treatment strategy. Here are some lifestyle changes and treatment options to help get rid of back acne.

Causes of Back Acne

As with acne on the face, bacne is associated with sebum, an oil produced by the body to moisturize the hair and skin. When sebum buildup combines with dead skin cells, it can clog the pores, causing blemishes to develop. Acne can be related to a number of factors, including hormones, genetics, certain medications, and trapped sweat.

Lifestyle Changes

Taking certain steps can help alleviate back acne. Those who are affected should take the following precautions:

– Shower immediately after working out to remove sweat that could exacerbate the problem

– Use over-the-counter body washes that contain benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid

– When exercising, wear lightweight fabrics that wick sweat from the skin

– Use a gentle exfoliating scrub weekly on the affected area

– If you have long hair, keep it from touching your bare back

– Choose oil-free sunscreens

Medical Treatments

Persistent cases of back acne may require medical treatment. We may recommend any of the following options:

– Topical prescription medications that address the buildup of pore-clogging substances

– Oral medications that limit sebum production, such as antibiotics, contraceptive pills, and isotretinoin

– Chemical peels

– Laser and light therapy, including an advanced treatment option known as photodynamic acne treatment

At The Dermatology Clinic, we help clients create personalized skin care plans that address acne and other concerns, based on the severity of the acne, the client’s overall treatment goals, health, and other factors. Our aesthetic center can even address scarring left by acne blemishes both on the face and the back through painless, minimally invasive laser treatments. Contact us at (225) 769-7546 to make an appointment with a member of our team at one of our three convenient Baton Rouge area locations.