How to Get Rid of Back Acne

There’s something magical about the change from summer to fall: the weather’s cooling down, holidays are on the horizon, and you have an excuse to seek coziness at all costs.

But the change in season isn’t always fun for our skin. For some it means paper-dry skin; for others, it’s eczema flare-ups.

And then, there’s acne. Acne can appear anywhere on the body and, while it’s never fun, it can be incredibly frustrating when it’s on your back.

Back acne, also known as “bacne,” is when acne occurs on the back. This is typically due to the clogging and inflammation of sebaceous glands. And while it’s a common stigma, poor hygiene is not the prime cause of back acne.

Back acne is quite common; the skin on the back has many sebaceous glands, which makes it prone to breakouts (even for those who bathe frequently).

Back acne can also occur from friction, hormonal imbalance, and genetics. And while it can be frustrating, anyone can achieve happier, healthier skin with a bit of guidance.

Without further ado, let’s discuss how to get rid of back acne.

When shopping for products to help with back acne, familiarize yourself with the best ingredients. The ingredients below can help kill bacteria, balance oil levels, and slough off dead skin cells and sebum for clearer skin.

Benzoyl Peroxide
Benzoyl peroxide is one of the best-known ingredients for acne. It gently peels away the top layer of skin and kills any bacteria hiding underneath, which is especially helpful for the thicker skin on the back.

When starting with benzoyl peroxide, it may be best to limit your usage to three times a week, as it can be pretty sensitizing and may not work for all skin types. You can find benzoyl peroxide over-the-counter in several different products, at a variety of strengths. An emollient cleanser may be the most helpful for getting rid of back acne.

Retinoids
Retinoids are some of the most thoroughly researched skin care products on the market, and are highly versatile for anti-aging and fading acne.

Retinoids are vitamin A derivatives known to help stimulate cell turnover and reduce the onset of dead skin cells and sebum. And while it’s most often used on the face, retinol can work just as well on the body.

Like benzoyl peroxide, retinoids are available in over-the-counter products, but those with severe back acne may have more success with a prescription retinoid like tretinoin; talk to your dermatologist about the best options for your skin type.

Tea Tree Oil
Melaleuca alternifolia, or tea tree oil, is a unique botanical extract made from the leaves of an Australian tree. It’s been used for centuries as a traditional medicine and holistic remedy, thanks to its wealth of healing properties.

Tea tree oil offers antifungal, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory benefits, making it useful for several skin conditions – especially bacterial acne. And while tea tree oil can be used on its own as a spot treatment, there are plenty of products with tea tree that’s great for back acne. Our Tea Tree Clear Complexion Cleanser incorporates tea tree oil alongside neem, eucalyptus and oregano to kill bacteria while soothing inflammation in the skin.

Adopting a new routine can work wonders for back acne, but choosing the right products is only half the work. Your lifestyle can have an impact on back acne, too! Here are some habits to get you ready for low-backed dresses and strapless tops:

Stick with Loose Clothing in Hot Weather
Friction is a major irritant that can worsen acne, and tight clothing can contribute heavily to friction on the skin. Constrictive clothing can also trap dirt, sweat, and bacteria into the skin, making back acne that much worse.

In periods of hot weather, avoid tight-fitting clothes and stick with loose-fitting, breathable pieces, and be sure to change as soon as possible after a workout.

Wear Your Hair Up
Is your hair touching your back regularly? It might be contributing to back acne. Hair naturally absorbs oil and dirt, and when your hair is often touching your back, it can transfer oil, dirt, and bacteria to your skin. It can be helpful to keep it in a bun, ponytail, or braid when you’re working up a sweat.

Use Physical Exfoliants
Exfoliating is the act of sloughing off dead skin cells and sebum off the skin, and it can do wonders for getting rid of back acne. We recommend our award-winning Lavender Body Scrub, which nourishes and soothes the skin with vitamin E, jojoba oil, and lavender essential oil. French sea salt gently exfoliates the skin for a smooth, clear surface.