Health Info > Skin Conditions Published on : August 19, 2024

How to get rid of back acne? Doctor-approved remedies

Name: Hola Health
Address: Australia
Telephone: +611300014652
Price range: $

Written by Priyanka Agarwal, Writer at Hola Health
Medically reviewed by Dr Gosagan Gopalakrishnan, BSc (Hons), MBChB, DRCOG, MRCGP, FRACGP

Back acne, commonly known as “bacne”, is a troublesome skin condition that affects many individuals, particularly during adolescence and young adulthood. Marked by the appearance of cysts, pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, or painful nodules on the back, bacne can profoundly impact self-esteem and confidence. While this skin condition can be persistent, there is a wealth of remedies and strategies to help you achieve your clear skin again. Let’s explore effective treatments and preventive measures to help you leave bacne behind and say hello to your softest back ever!

What causes back acne?

Some common causes of bacne are:

Hormonal changes: Hormonal changes during puberty, menstruation, or pregnancy may increase sebum production and promote acne development, including the back.
Genetics: Family history and genetics may play a part in making individuals more prone to acne.
Sweat: Sweat can blend with oils and dead skin cells, intensifying pore-clogging and triggering acne formation, especially in hot and humid weather.
Stress: Stress can provoke hormonal changes which may lead to increased sebum production, possibly aggravating acne symptoms, including on the back.
Medications: Acne can manifest as a side effect of certain medications.
Friction and pressure: Tight clothing or athlete gear rubbing against the skin can cause friction and pressure, resulting in irritation and possibly blocked pores.

Home remedies for back acne

Here are some things you can do to help improve your back acne:

Tea tree oil: Tea Tree Oil is known for its antimicrobial characteristics and may help with acne. Dilute it with a carrier oil (such as coconut or jojoba oil) and apply to the affected areas.
Exfoliation: By using a gentle scrub or brush, exfoliate your back to eliminate dead skin cells and blocked pores. Be careful not to over-exfoliate as you can damage your skin barrier and worsen your acne.
Hygiene: Proper hygiene includes showering regularly, especially after sweating or exercising, to keep the back clean and acne-free. See below for more details.

Hygiene

Proper hygiene is crucial in managing acne, but it's important to strike a balance:

Cleansing:

Washing the face twice daily (morning and evening) with a gentle cleanser is generally recommended. Over-washing can strip the skin of natural oils, causing it to produce more oil, which may lead to more acne.
Use non-comedogenic, gentle cleansers that don’t clog pores. Look for products with acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or tea tree oil if you have oily or acne-prone skin.

Avoiding touching the back or face:

Hands carry bacteria, oil, and dirt that can transfer to the back or face and contribute to acne. Avoiding unnecessary touching can reduce this risk.

Showering after sweating:

Sweat can mix with oil and bacteria on the skin, potentially clogging pores and leading to acne. It’s important to shower after intense physical activity to remove sweat and prevent acne, especially on the back and chest.

Changing pillowcases and towels:

Pillowcases and towels can accumulate oil, bacteria, and dead skin cells, which can transfer back to your skin and contribute to acne. Regularly changing pillowcases (every few days) and towels can help minimize this risk.

Hair care:

Hair products, especially those containing oils or silicones, can transfer to the face and clog pores. Keeping hair clean and off the face, especially during sleep, can help prevent this.

When to see a doctor?

If your back acne is severe, ongoing, or increasing despite home therapies, consult a doctor. Seek medical assistance if your acne causes substantial discomfort, scars, or emotional anguish. If you have symptoms such as big cysts or nodules, or if over-the-counter medicines do not work, a dermatologist can recommend more focused remedies. Furthermore, if you detect odd symptoms such as fever or broad inflammation, or if your acne is accompanied by other skin diseases, you should seek expert help to rule out underlying causes and obtain proper treatment.

How can Hola Health help?

Hola Health provides a full range of telehealth services to address various health concerns, including back acne, all from the comfort of your home:

Virtual consultations

Consult with a health practitioner within 15 minutes, right from your home, eliminating the need for travel and reducing wait times. Our medical experts can offer targeted advice, diagnosis, and treatment plans to effectively manage and treat back acne, available 24-hours (and after-hours consultations).

Online prescriptions

Easily obtain prescriptions online from a registered health practitioner, ensuring you have quick access to the necessary medications to help clear up back acne.

Doctor’s certificates

If back acne is affecting your ability to work, study, or participate in daily activities, you can receive a medical certificate online in minutes from AHPRA-registered medical practitioners.

Online referrals

For persistent or severe back acne, get referrals to dermatologists online, so you can receive specialised care without the hassle of traveling.

Online medicine delivery

When dealing with back acne, timely access to treatments is key. Schedule your medication delivery or opt for same-day pharmacy delivery through Hola, allowing you to manage your condition conveniently from home.

Although back acne might be frustrating, you have the tools to toss it aside! So, celebrate your quest for clearer skin, practice patience, and get set to face the world with confidence!

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