Acne affects as many as 50 million Americans, according to the American Academy of Dermatology, and most people will develop at least one whitehead or blackhead on their back at some point. Numerous factors are involved in the development of back acne, including genetics, excess oil production, clogged pores, certain bacteria and inflammation. Without treatment, acne can lead to permanent scarring, depression, low-self esteem and anxiety. Minor cases of back acne usually respond to lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications, whereas more severe cases may require medical intervention and oral medications.
Step 1
Bathe every day using mild soap and warm water. Exfoliate your back, using a long-handled exfoliation sponge or brush and a product with fine grains. Be gentle to avoid irritating your skin and stimulating additional oil production. The AAD states that excessive or forceful scrubbing can make acne outbreaks worse.
Step 2
Shampoo your hair every day and keep your hair off your back. According to KidsHealth, shampooing daily will prevent oily hair from clogging the pores on your back. KidsHealth also cautions against getting styling products, such as hair spray, on your skin. Styling products can clog pores and irritate the skin, which in turn can trigger or worsen acne.
Step 3
Wear natural fabrics to allow the skin on your back to breathe. Dress appropriately for the weather, and opt for layers during the winter months. This will help prevent sweating. If you wear a backpack and notice acne breakouts near the strap sites, consider using a hand-held bag instead. Acne.org recommends changing your clothing as soon as you become sweaty. Wash bras frequently.
Step 4
Keep your sheets, pillowcases and blankets clean. Dirty bed linens attract bacteria that can increase acne or infect broken skin. Try switching your laundry detergent to a hypoallergenic, fragrance-free brand. These brands are less likely to irritate your skin.
Step 5
Avoid picking at or popping pimples on your back, and do not rub your back against a wall to scratch it. Not only will these actions irritate your skin and worsen your acne, they can lead to scarring and damage your skin, putting you at risk for potentially serious skin infections.
Step 6
Apply an over-the-counter topical medication to your back to treat acne that does not get better with improved hygiene. If you cannot reach your back, ask a friend or family member to apply the medication for you. Topical acne treatments, such as those that contain benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, can be very drying and may cause skin irritation or burning. If you notice these symptoms, reduce the frequency of application or use a water-based moisturizer on your back after applying the medication.
Step 7
Try prescription medication to treat persistent back acne. According to the AAD, oral antibiotics are often necessary for treating moderate to severe cases of acne, especially when the acne covers a large area of the body. Other prescription medications that may be helpful include anti-inflammatory drugs and steroids to control severe inflammation, and hormones to treat high testosterone levels in men with back acne. Women may benefit from taking certain types of oral contraceptives.
Things You'll Need
- Exfoliation brush with long handle
- Fine-grained exfoliant
- Hypoallergenic laundry detergent
- Over-the-counter acne cream
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