Tips and special ingredients that give you clearer skin
Posted on January 27, 2025 Written by: 100% PURE®
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.
Ingredients That Can Help 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, while our Tea Tree & Willow Clarifying Astringent helps balance oil production while killing acne-causing bacteria.
Natural Remedies and DIY Solutions for Back Acne
If back acne is weighing on your confidence, there’s good news: nature offers powerful solutions to help you reclaim clearer, healthier skin. By incorporating natural remedies into your routine, you can soothe irritation, fight bacteria, and balance your skin without harsh chemicals. These gentle DIY solutions are a great starting point for taking control of your back acne.
DIY Tea Tree Oil Spot Treatment
Tea tree oil is renowned for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a fantastic option for targeting active breakouts. However, tea tree oil is potent and must be diluted to avoid skin irritation.
How to Use:
- Combine 1–2 drops of tea tree oil with 1 teaspoon of a carrier oil, such as jojoba or coconut oil.
- Mix thoroughly and use a clean cotton swab to apply the solution directly to active breakouts on your back.
- Allow it to absorb into the skin before dressing.
Frequency:
Apply once daily or every other day, depending on your skin’s sensitivity. With consistent use, this treatment can reduce redness and shrink blemishes.
Apple Cider Vinegar Toner
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is a multi-purpose natural remedy known for balancing the skin’s pH and reducing acne-causing bacteria. When diluted properly, it makes an excellent toner for your back.
How to Use:
- Mix 1 part apple cider vinegar with 3 parts water in a spray bottle or bowl.
- Spray or dab the solution gently onto clean, dry skin using a cotton pad or reusable cloth.
- Let it dry naturally, then follow up with a light, non-comedogenic moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated.
Frequency:
Use this toner once a day after showering or cleansing your back. Over time, you’ll notice reduced inflammation and a more balanced complexion.
By adding these natural remedies to your routine, you’re not only addressing current breakouts but also creating an environment that discourages future acne. Small, consistent actions can make a big difference in your skin’s health and your confidence.
How to Get Rid of Back Acne
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.
Soothe With Bath Soaks
When battling back acne, sometimes the best solution is to relax and let a luxurious soak do the work for you. Bath soaks infused with skin-loving ingredients can detoxify, reduce inflammation, and leave your skin feeling refreshed. One standout option is the Eucalyptus Sea Therapy Bath, designed to clarify and calm irritated skin.
This indulgent soak combines the cleansing power of eucalyptus with mineral-rich sea salt to gently detoxify pores and reduce bacne flare-ups. The eucalyptus works as a natural antiseptic, combating bacteria and refreshing the skin, while the sea salt helps slough away dead skin cells and promotes healing.
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. Alternatively, our Charcoal Konjac Sponge is natural, gentle tool for exfoliating hard-to-reach areas on the back; plus it’s infused with activated charcoal to draw out impurities and cleanse clogged pores.
FAQs About Back Acne
What causes back acne, and how is it different from facial acne?
Back acne, or “bacne,” is caused by clogged pores, excess oil production, dead skin cells, and bacteria buildup, much like facial acne. However, the skin on your back is thicker and has larger oil glands, making it prone to deeper, more stubborn breakouts like cysts. Additionally, factors like tight clothing, friction from backpacks, and sweat can exacerbate bacne.
How often should I exfoliate to help prevent back acne?
To prevent back acne, exfoliate 1–2 times per week using a gentle scrub or chemical exfoliant. Over-exfoliating can irritate the skin and worsen breakouts, so stick to a schedule that removes dead skin cells without stripping your skin’s natural barrier.
Can diet and hydration impact back acne?
Yes, your diet and hydration can play a role in skin health. Foods high in sugar or dairy may trigger acne in some individuals, while a nutrient-rich diet with plenty of water supports overall skin clarity. Staying hydrated helps flush toxins and keeps your skin balanced, reducing the likelihood of breakouts.
Are natural remedies like tea tree oil effective for treating back acne?
Yes, natural remedies like tea tree oil can be effective for treating back acne. Tea tree oil has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that target acne-causing bacteria and reduce redness. However, it’s essential to dilute it with a carrier oil to avoid irritation and use it consistently for best results.
What is the best way to prevent bacne after working out?
To prevent bacne after working out, shower as soon as possible to remove sweat, dirt, and bacteria from your skin. Wear loose, breathable clothing during exercise to minimize friction and irritation, and consider using a salicylic acid body wash for a deeper clean. Washing workout gear regularly is also crucial to avoid transferring bacteria back to your skin.
- Tags: January-2025
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The information in this article is for educational use, and not intended to substitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and should not be used as such.
