How Can You Treatand Preventback Acne
Treating back acne can be a challenge, but there are some straightforward steps you can take at home that will help manage it, according to the American Academy of Dermatology . Heres how to get rid of back acne for good:
Look for benzoyl peroxide. Of all the over-the-counter acne medication options you have, the AAD suggests starting with benzoyl peroxide. This ingredient works by killing bacteria that fuel acne. The AAD recommends using a wash containing benzoyl peroxide by letting it sit on your skin for two to five minutes in the shower daily and then rinsing it off. They also suggest starting with a concentration of 5.3% and only going higher than that if a lower concentration isnt enough. Although the skin on your back isnt as sensitive as the skin on your face, high concentrations of benzoyl peroxide can cause side effects, so its still smart to start at a lower level and work your way up only if needed.
Products to try:
- Paulas Choice Clear Extra Strength Daily Skin Clearing Treatment, $19,
- SLMD BP Body Wash, $35, Target
- PanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash 10%, $11, Target
Products to try:
- La Roche Posay Effaclar Adapalene Gel 0.1%, $30,
- Acne Free Adapalene Gel 0.1%, $12,
Products to try:
- Neutrogena Body Clear Body Wash, $7, Target
- Murad Acne Body Wash, $44, Murad
- Dermaologica Clearing Skin Wash, $62, Ulta
Products to try:
Lifestyle Changes To Manage Shoulder Acne
Acne forms due to the clogging of pores and compromised skin health, both of which can occur as a result of multiple factors. Therefore, it is vital to take good care of your skin internally and externally.
The following lifestyle tips are helpful in the management of acne breakouts and lower their frequency:
What Causes Acne On The Shoulders
The cause of acne, whether on the face, the shoulders, or anywhere else on the body, is always the same clogged pores. However, the factors that lead to those blockages vary.
Imbalanced hormones are one culprit, while genetics can play a part in acne too. Stress, diet, and certain medications can all also increase sebum production, resulting in breakouts. Failing to cleanse properly contributes to this even further, with dead skin cells, oil, and sweat joining together to form a plug.
Don’t Miss: How To Get Rid Of Acne Face Mask
Cocktail A Spot Treatment
K, dont get too excitedno topical product will get rid of your cystic zit at home, aside from time . BUT, a cocktail of benzoyl peroxide and 1 percent hydrocortisone cream can help flatten the zit faster, says Dr. Gohara. Both are anti-inflammatories that will help calm the bump, and the less inflammation you have now, the less hyperpigmentation and scarring youll have when the zit heals, she says. So once a day for one week, dab benzoyl peroxide on the cyst, let it dry, and then tap on a thin layer of hydrocortisone cream.
Do Apply A Paste Made Of Crushed Aspirin

Aspirin contains salicylic acid, which is a top-shelf acne fighter by all accounts. Applying a paste made of aspirin immediately removes excess oil and dead skin. In other words, it helps to unclog and dry out your angry pores, while simultaneously reducing swelling and redness. Its one of the home remedies that dermatologists recommend, and it even helps reduce pain at the application site. To make the paste, crush an aspirin with a spoon and swirl it with a few drops of water. Then apply it directly to the pimple.
You May Like: How To Clear Up Acne
Medicated Lotions Or Sprays
If cleansers aren’t doing the trick, add a medicated treatment lotion or spray to your treatment routine. Sprays in particular are great for those hard-to-reach places on your back. An option to consider is the Salicylic Acid Body Spray by Acne Free, which is fast-drying and contains aloe vera to protect your skin from excessive dryness.
Just keep in mind that benzoyl peroxide can stain your clothes. Before getting dressed, make sure any spray or lotion you use that contains benzoyl peroxide has fully dried on your skin.
Wear Clothing That Breathes
“Any skin irritation can exacerbate outbreaks. Its important to stay away from tight clothing to minimize friction, especially when perspiring. Certain materials, like those that absorb sweat from the skin, will also reduce irritation. Lighter colors and cotton are ideal, especially during workouts,” says Day.
Recommended Reading: How Does Salicylic Acid Work On Acne
Try A Fish Oil Supplement
Fish oils contain the omega-3 fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic .
Studies show that consuming EPA can help manage oil production, prevent pimples, and help the skin maintain adequate hydration .
High levels of EPA and DHA have also been shown to decrease factors that contribute to inflammation, which may ultimately reduce the risk of pimples .
In one study, taking omega-3 fatty acid supplements containing both EPA and DHA daily for 10 weeks significantly reduced pimples in all 45 participants .
You can also get omega-3 fatty acids by eating walnuts, chia seeds, ground flaxseeds, salmon, sardines, and anchovies.
However, the plant sources above contain the omega-3 fatty acid alpha-linolenic acid and little to no EPA or DHA .
Taking a supplement with concentrated omega-3s can help you take in higher amounts of EPA and DHA to better treat pimples. You can find fish oil supplements to buy online.
Summary
Taking brewers yeast, zinc, or fish oil orally may help prevent and reduce pimples over time. These supplements may not get rid of pimples quickly, but studies evaluating their long-term use show great promise.
How Do You Get Rid Of Severe Acne Scars
The most effective treatments to get rid of severe acne scars include
- Chemical peels: This involves the use of strong chemicals to remove the outer layer of the skin and reduce the appearance of scars. Some salicylic acid, glycolic acid containing peels are available OTC.
- Botox injections: These are highly effective for acne scars with puckered skin around them. These puckered areas can be treated with botulinum toxin injections to improve the appearance of skin.
- Dermabrasion: The procedure involves the removal of the top, damaged layer of skin with a rapidly rotating wire brush or wheel with a rough surface. The procedure deeply exfoliates the top layer of skin to reduce the appearance of deeper scars.
- Microneedling: This uses a small, handheld pen or needle-studded roller to puncture the skin on the surface of the scars. As the punctured skin heals, it makes collagen and reduces the visibility of acne scars by smoothing out the skin.
- Laser resurfacing: The procedure involves removing the top layer of skin to reveal younger underlying skin cells to reduce the appearance of scars. It creates a more even skin surface.
Speak with a dermatologist to determine the best treatment for your acne scars.
Read Also: How To Cover Acne With Makeup
How To Get Rid Of Acne On The Forehead
It is important for anyone to know how to get rid of acne on forehead. In this article I will be showing you some simple tips and instructions that will help you in this regard. The most common causes of acne are hormonal changes, stress and heredity. There are many ways by which you can get rid of these factors.
Dead Sea Mud Mask: How To Get Rid Of Pimples Overnight
The reason we are including the Pure Body Naturals Beauty Dead Sea Mud Mask in our list of 25 natural remedies to get rid of acne is because of the popularity and rave reviews it has received. If you want to get rid of pimples overnight, try this mud mask as it is very effective.
This 24 hour acne treatment has been rated 4.5 stars by thousands of users on Amazon. AcneFree 24 hour Severe Acne Clearing System is packed with beneficial vitamins and minerals and is highly effective against blackheads and other blemishes.
It helps draws out oils and toxins, cleans pores, and may leave your face feeling exfoliated, nourished and clean. it is made with awesome ingredients to use on face and body.
Pure Body Naturals Beauty Dead Sea Mud Mask contains minerals and nutrients like aloe vera, dead sea mud, kaolin clay, shea butter, calendula oil, jojoba oil, hickory bark extract which pull out excess oils and toxins leaving your skin feeling fresh and rejuvenated.It is suitable for use on sensitive skin and it really works! You can get more details about this amazing mask here.
How to use: Apply a thick layer and leave it on for 5 minutes. When washing off, use circular motion. Use two times a week for acne prone skin.
Recommended Reading: How To Use Tretinoin For Acne
Lululemon Men’s Mesh Workout Shirt
Compress less: I often see folliculitis in elite athletes. They will confuse the bumps on their legs, lower back, and groin with acne, when in fact they can be infected hair follicles. A recent trend that may be contributing to this phenomenon is compression. Tight yoga pants, compression shorts and sleeves can occlude and irritate hair follicles, and you can further increase the risk of hair follicle infection with reusing clothing without washing, says Dr. John Trinidad.
Whey is way bad:Stop whey protein shakes and bars! Whey protein supplements have been linked to back acne. For some patients, the acne clears up after the supplements are discontinued, says Dr. Allison Arthur. Consider switching to a non-whey protein.
Articles On Acne Treatment

Acne is the most common skin problem in the United States. It often appears as an outbreak of pimples on your face. But it can also show up on your chest, neck, back, or shoulders.
While you can cover a rash on your chest or arm with clothes, it’s hard to hide bumps and blemishes on your face. Plus, they can be painful. They can affect your mood and make you self-conscious.
Acne happens when a pore gets clogged with oil and dead skin cells. It can affect people of all ages. But there are treatments that can help. The trick is finding what works best for you.
Also Check: How To Stop Scalp Acne
Types Of Shoulder Acne
Not all acne looks the same. Thats because there are actually different types of acne:
- Whiteheads are small bumps with a skin-colored appearance on them. They contain a buildup of keratin and oil.
- Blackheads occur when a pore becomes clogged. Its often thought that their dark color is due to dirt in the follicle, but its actually because of oxidation of keratin and melanin.
- Papules are small red bumps. Theyre less than 1 centimeter in diameter. Papules dont have a clear head.
- Pustules are red bumps filled with pus or other fluid.
- Nodules and cysts are large, red, often painful acne lesions that occur in severe acne called nodulocystic acne.
There are a lot of acne medications and cleansers on the market, making it hard to choose the right one. Weve got you covered.
How To Use Aloe Vera Gel For Acne
You can also purchase bottled aloe vera gel online, but make sure its pure aloe and does not contain added ingredients.
Summary
Applying aloe to the skin can help treat burns, heal wounds, and fight inflammation. It has been shown to increase the anti-acne effects of other treatments, but more research is needed on its effects when used on its own.
Also Check: How To Get Rid Of Inflammatory Acne
Replenix Benzoyl Peroxide 10% Body Wash With Aloe Vera
As an alternative, use zinc-packed dandruff shampoos:
I find that often back acne is actually pityrosporum folliculitis, an overgrowth of a yeast normally found on our skin. Using antifungal shampoos and body washes, daily for 10 days, then weekly for maintenance, is helpful, says Dr. Debbie Elder.
What Causes Back Acne
Acne is caused by increased oil production, bacteria, pore blockage, and irregular skin cell turnover, board-certified dermatologist Eric Meinhardt, M.D., tells SELF, and that goes for your face and your back. Sebaceous glands in the skin produce oil, which can collect along with dead skin cells in the pores, plugging them up and giving bacteria a perfect breeding ground, all of which can lead to redness, whiteheads, blackheads, and sometimes infection.
Hormones can play a large role, which is why you might break out more around your period, for instance. And if youve noticed that your breakouts pop up in similar places as it does for other family members, that could signal that your acne has a hereditary component, Dr. Meinhardt says.
While the root causes of zits are basically the same in both places, the skin on your face is very different from the skin on your back, which has its upsides and downsides. The skin on the face has more blood supply, Dr. Meinhardt says, which helps acne heal faster and reduces scarring. But the skin on the back is much thicker than the skin on the face . That means that the back is more resilient and can handle stronger treatments, scrubs, and exfoliants that would be considered too harsh for the face.
Read Also: How To Clear Acne Prone Skin
Apply Green Tea To The Skin
A lot of people drink green tea for its health benefits, but it can also be helpful when applied directly to the skin.
Green tea contains flavonoids and tannins, which are known to help fight inflammation and the bacteria that may cause pimples .
Its also high in the antioxidant epigallocatechin-3-gallate , which has been shown to fight inflammation, reduce sebum production, and inhibit the growth of P. acnes in people with acne-prone skin .
Multiple studies have shown that people with acne experience significantly less sebum production and pimples when they apply a 23% green tea extract to their skin .
There are a handful of skin care products on the market that contain green tea, but its very simple and cost-effective to make your own mixture at home.
You can get a quality green tea online.
Pharmacy First Scotland: Acne Treatment From Your Pharmacy
Acne isn’t usually serious and can be treated by a pharmacist. If your acne is severe or appears on your chest and back, it may need to be treated with antibiotics or stronger creams that are only available on prescription. Your pharmacist can advise on whether you need to see your GP for further treatment.
If you develop nodules or cysts, they need to be treated properly through your GP to avoid scarring. Try to resist the temptation to pick or squeeze the spots, as this can lead to permanent scarring.
Read Also: How To Get Rid Of Acne Marks Fast
How To Get Rid Of Back Acne For Good
Face acne is a commonand frustratingskin condition to manage. And figuring out how to get rid of back acne is no different. For some people, back acne causes small pimples, while others deal with large cystic acne zits, which can be deep, painful, and pus-filled. And because back acne can be caused by external factors, particularly working out and wearing sweaty clothes, it can be stubborn to treat with the usual acne remedieseven if they work for the pimples on your face.
So what actually is back acne? And how can you treat it effectively? Heres what you need to know about how to get rid of back acne for good.
Easy Tips For Preventing And Getting Rid Of Shoulder Acne

On the list of the most annoying places acne can appear, the shoulders are right up there next to the back and chest. On the bright side, acne in this hard-to-reach area is not impossible to deal with. Shoulder acne can be addressed similarly to how one would approach facial acne with a targeted routine. Ahead, we gathered expert tips on how to stop breakouts and get rid of shoulder acne, once and for all.
Read Also: Does Cerave Work For Acne
What Can I Do If I Have Acne
The self-help techniques below may be useful:
- Don’t wash affected areas of skin more than twice a day. Frequent washing can irritate the skin and make symptoms worse
- Wash the affected area with a mild soap or cleanser and lukewarm water. Very hot or cold water can make acne worse
- Don’t try to “clean out” blackheads or squeeze spots. This can make them worse and cause permanent scarring
- Avoid using too much make-up and cosmetics. Use water-based products that are described as non-comedogenic
- Completely remove make-up before going to bed
- If dry skin is a problem, use a fragrance-free, water-based emollient
- Regular exercise can’t improve your acne, but it can boost your mood and improve your self-esteem. Shower as soon as possible once you finish exercising, as sweat can irritate your acne
- Wash your hair regularly and try to avoid letting your hair fall across your face
Although acne can’t be cured, it can be controlled with treatment. Several creams, lotions and gels for treating spots are available at pharmacies. If you develop acne, it’s a good idea to speak to your pharmacist for advice.
Treatments can take up to 3 months to work, so don’t expect results overnight. Once they do start to work, the results are usually good.