If you’ve ever dealt with acne, you probably know that a blemish can appear anywhere, from the face to the back to the chest. Body acne, which is any pimple not found on the face, is usually caused by clogged pores (more on that later). Of course, knowing the causes of body acne and knowing how to get rid of it are two very different things – the truth is that getting clear skin takes work.
While there is (unfortunately) no single, guaranteed way to get rid of acne on the body for good, there are ways to manage it. Here we explain what body acne is and what are the common causes of acne on the chest, back (also called “bacne”) and other non-facial breakouts. We’ll also give you tips to help you keep those unwanted visitors at bay. Read on for this guide to preventing and treating acne on your body.
What is Body Acne?
Body acne is kind of a catch-all term used to describe breakouts that occur anywhere other than the face. While technically body acne can appear anywhere, the most common areas are the shoulders, back and chest, in other words, areas that have a high concentration of sebaceous glands. Body acne is not a cause for concern on its own, but it can be frustrating, especially if it is persistent.
What causes body acne?
Acne comes in different forms, like whiteheads and blackheads, but research shows it’s often caused by clogged pores. Other causes and contributing factors to acne include excess oil production, bacteria, and hormonal imbalances, as well as sweating and chafing from tight-fitting clothing. Finally, there’s a genetic component: People with a family history of acne are more likely to get breakouts themselves.
Fortunately, many cases of acne can be managed with a skin care routine. Read on to find out which products to incorporate into your routine to help keep your skin clear.
How to deal with body rashes?
If you’re here to learn how to get rid of body acne for good, we’ve got some news you might not want to hear: There’s no 100% guaranteed way to get rid of a skin problem, including body acne. By following the right routine and maintaining healthy skin habits, however, you can help keep pimples away on your body (and face). Here you will find tips for managing your rashes.
Tip #1: Keep the skin clean with a mild shower gel.
Whether you have acne on your chest or pimples on your forehead. Clearer skin often starts with the removal of sebum and skin cells trapped in pores, as studies indicate these are the main causes of breakouts. The first step in your daily body care routine should be to wash thoroughly with a gentle cleanser specially formulated for the skin on your body.
In the shower, after washing and conditioning your hair, apply a generous amount of body wash to your skin with clean hands or a loofah. Cleanse your entire body, focusing on rash-prone areas like your back and chest, then rinse thoroughly.
Tip #2: Exfoliate your skin regularly.
Exfoliation removes dead cells from the skin’s surface, which can help prevent clogged pores. That said, there’s a balance to be struck: While exfoliation can be beneficial for people prone to body acne, excessive exfoliation can irritate your skin and make you more prone to breakouts.
Tip #3: First wash your hair.
If washing your body is the first step in your usual shower routine, maybe you should reconsider. Hair products, like shampoos and conditioners, often contain ingredients that, while good for hair, can clog pores. Washing your body after your hair helps remove any product residue and ensures your hair care routine doesn’t lead to body acne.
Tip #4: Hydrate yourself every day.
It may seem counterintuitive to use body butter or lotion if your skin is producing excess oil and causing acne on your body. But hydration is crucial for healthy-looking skin. Neglecting to hydrate can leave your skin vulnerable to dehydration, and if your skin becomes too dry, your body can produce excess oil to restore balance. This increased sebum production can lead to clogged pores and ultimately breakouts.
Tip #5: Consult a dermatologist.
Ultimately, there are no absolutes when it comes to skincare. If you suffer from recurring breakouts and topical acne treatments aren’t helping as much as you’d like, see a board-certified dermatologist for professional help. A dermatologist will help you understand why you have acne and can prescribe medication to help manage your breakouts.
