Everything you want to know about body acne, why it happens and the best ways to deal with it.
Everything you want to know about body acne
Body acne and facial acne are essentially the same, although a few other factors play a role in breakouts from the neck down. Bacteria plus pore-clogging oil and dead skin cells are the main contributors no matter where skin breakouts may appear, but the chest, back and beyond are exposed to other factors that can make acne worse. An effective skincare regimen with proven, dermatologist-recommended ingredients is key for fighting body acne and any type of acne for that matter—and maintaining clear skin from head to toe.
What causes body acne
In addition to the bacteria and clogged pores that lead to all acne breakouts, the chest, back, buttocks and other areas can be more prone to acne due to sweat and friction during exercise—and tight, form-fitting workout attire doesn’t help. Hair products can lead to acne as well, especially if shampos and conditioner aren’t thoroughly rinsed off the skin or if you use hairspray before you get dressed. Dirty sheets with lingering oil and bacteria can exacerbate body acne as well—and don’t underestimate the effects of stress, which prompts our bodies to produce a hormone called cortisol that has been linked to acne breakouts.
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How to treat body acne
As with face acne, a comprehensive skincare routine that incorporates ingredients that fight acne and ingredients that care for the skin is the number-one way to minimize body acne. A combination of benzoyl peroxide to target the bacteria that cause acne and salicylic acid to help exfoliate the skin and keep pores clear goes a long way for keeping breakouts at bay. (AcneFree’s Oil Free Acne Cleanser is easy to use in the shower, and the Body Clearing Acne Spray makes it easy to treat spots that can be hard to reach with lotions.) Also keep an eye out for ingredients like aloe vera to help care for the skin while battling acne breakouts. And remember to avoid scrubbing or picking, because this can lead to scarring after acne breakouts have healed.
Prevent body acne with these clear skin tips
A few small changes to your regular routine can make a big difference when it comes to body acne. Consider these tips to help get rid of acne fast on your back, chest and beyond.
- Shower as soon as possible after exercising, and try to use an acne cleanser with benzoyl peroxide.
- Wash your body with a benzoyl peroxide cleanser after shampooing and conditioning.
- Look for workout clothes that breathe or wick moisture away from the skin.
- Make time for stress relief. This can be anything that helps you relax, whether exercise, meditation or spending time with friends.
- While there’s no concrete proof that French fries or chocolate directly cause breakouts, a healthy diet filled with lean protein, fruits, vegetables and healthy fats (and limiting processed foods) is a step in the right direction. This doesn’t mean you can’t indulge… Just be mindful that what you put in your body can have an effect on the outside of your body—and your acne.