Acne, especially when it's on your back, can seem like such a nuisance. Depending upon the severity of your back acne, you may experience discomfort, pain and maybe embarrassment when around peers. There are many common remedies for back acne but, if your back acne seems persistent, your doctor may need to examine you to determine the cause of the acne and determine a new avenue of treatment.
Benzoyl Peroxide
Benzoyl peroxide effectively treats mild acne on the face, chest, back and neck, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Benzoyl peroxide fights the bacterium that causes acne and it does not require a prescription. If your doctor has recommended benzoyl peroxide to treat acne on your back, follow your doctor's instructions. Benzoyl peroxide does have the ability to bleach clothing so use caution when applying it to your back as it could bleach clothing, towels and hair. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends continuous use of benzoyl peroxide, even after your back acne has diminished to help keep it from reappearing.
Alcohol and Acetone
Alcohol and acetone can be found in some over-the-counter medications, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Using a solution containing alcohol and acetone helps treat acne as the acetone contains degreasing properties which helps reduce skin oil and the alcohol contains mild antimicrobial properties. Follow the instructions on the packaging as the solution may dry out your skin.
Antibiotics
If your back acne occurs due to a bacterial infection, your doctor may write you a prescription for an antibiotic. She may prescribe either a topical or oral antibiotic, depending upon the cause of your acne and how your acne reacts to the antibiotic. Topical antibiotics are applied to the skin. If you have very resistant acne, your doctor may prescribe a combination of oral and topical antibiotics to attack the acne from the inside of your body while treating your skin with the antibiotic as well, according to the Mayo Clinic. Common side effects of antibiotics include nausea, upset stomach, dizziness and you may experience sensitivity to the sun while taking the medication. If you're a female, the antibiotic may reduce the effectiveness of oral contraceptives. Speak with your physician if you take oral birth control.
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