Body Acne - Some Basic Information

Body acne can occur on the chest, back, and buttocks. It is common in both adults and teens. There are various forms of body acne. In comparison to facial acne, body acne can be somewhat harder to treat as well. One of the reasons for this is that they can be made worse due to the clothing rubbing against them constantly.

Types

In order to treat your body acne you must first understand which form of body acne you have. Whiteheads, blackheads, pimples, pustules, papules and cysts are some of the different forms of body acne. Cysts are very large inflamed lesions that are filled with pus. Cysts are very painful and often leave the skin terribly scarred.

Causes

The basic cause of all acne is blocked pores. When pores get blocked due to oil, bacteria and dead skin cells, people develop body acne or facial acne. Heredity, stress, hormones and menstruation are considered some of the causes of body acne. Perspiration and tight fitting clothes have also been cited by doctors as leading causes of body acne.

Whatever the cause, the fact is that back acne can be as embarrassing as facial acne. They often show up on the neck, back and chest. They also prevent us from wearing dresses that have a plunging neck or back. Even though back acne is very hard to treat because body skin is thick, it is not impossible.

Tips

The right regimen can cure your body acne. Here are some useful tips.

  • Wash the acne prone areas with an anti-bacterial soap everyday.
  • Apply 5% to 10% benzoyl peroxide cream. This will dry out the pimples. Next apply a moisturizer consisting of alpha hydroxyl acid to exfoliate and to hydrate the skin.
  • If you have acne on your buttocks, you can use an exfoliating scrub or a loofah to get rid of the dead skin cells. But do not scrub too hard because that would irritate and inflame the skin.
  • Wash the acne prone area with an anti-bacterial soap immediately after heavy perspiration. Take a shower after exercising or heavy sweating.
  • Do not squeeze your acne.
  • Avoid wearing tight fitting clothes. If you have acne on your back, then avoid carrying a back pack as well.
  • It is also important to understand that a treatment or regimen usually takes six weeks to show results. So, do not give up if you do not see immediate results.

To treat your body acne it is best to first consult a dermatologist. He/she will give you the right advice. Besides taking your medication on time, it is also important to eat right. Include lots of leafy vegetables and fruits in your diet and see the difference in your skin and also your acne.