What is acne on your back?
Back acne is a form of common acne that appears on our backs. It is similar to facial acne in that there are comedones, spots, papules, pustules, nodules, and even cysts in more severe cases. Our backs are susceptible to developing acne because of the high number of sebaceous glands that produce sebum, an oily substance that can block our pores.
Causes of acne on your back
There are several factors that can cause back acne:
Excessive production of sebum: The sebaceous glands on our backs can produce excessive amounts of sebum, which can then block our pores.
Accumulation of dead skin cells: Dead skin cells can build up on the surface of our skin and mix with sebum to block our pores.
Bacteria: The Propionibacterium acnes bacteria, which lives in the skin, can proliferate in blocked pores, causing inflammation and infection.
Friction and sweating: Tight clothing, backpacks and excessive sweating can all irritate the skin and contribute to the appearance of acne.
Hormonal factors: Hormonal fluctuations, particularly during adolescence, can increase sebum production and lead to acne.
Genetics: Genetic propensity can play a significant role in the development of acne.
Types of spots on your back
Back acne can appear in different forms, each having their own specific traits:
Comedones: These are non-inflammatory lesions that can be open (blackheads) or closed (whiteheads).
Papules: Small pink or red inflammatory lumps but which do not contain pus.
Pustules: Inflammatory lesions full of pus, commonly known as spots.
Nodules: Large, painful lumps that develop under the surface of the skin.
Cysts: Deep, painful lesions that are full of puss and can cause scarring.
How to prevent spots on your back?
Preventing back acne requires a combination of good hygiene habits, lifestyle changes and in some cases medical treatment. Here are some tips:
Keep your skin clean: Showering every day is important, particularly after sweating. You should also use a mild cleanser that does not block your pores.
Exfoliation: Using mild exfoliants to get rid of dead skin cells is a good habit to prevent spots, but you should not rub too hard so as not to irritate your skin.
Appropriate clothing: Wearing loose clothing made from breathable fabric is a good option to reduce friction and to allow your skin to breathe.
Be careful with skincare products: You should always choose the right skincare products and the right haircare products which should be non-comedogenic, i.e. they do not block pores.
Avoid touching your skin: Scratching and squeezing spots can make the inflammation worse and lead to scarring, so you should avoid doing it.
Topical treatment: Applying some skin ointments containing ingredients such as benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid helps to control acne.
Consult a dermatologist: If the acne on your back is severe or persistent, it is best to seek a dermatologist’s expert advice for the right treatment.
