If you ever had to deal with back acne, or ‘bacne’ as it’s often called, you know just how frustrating it can be. Even though it’s less visible than having pimples on our face, it can be just as irritating, and even more uncomfortable or perplexing to tackle. Especially with the warmer months approaching, this is an issue that many of us are trying to solve. And don’t worry — you’re definitely not alone. Because back acne is actually a fairly common problem. Today, I decided to share some of my insights and possible triggers that could be the reason behind your bacne.
Fabric and Clothing Choices
One of the first areas to consider when you’re dealing with back acne is the type of clothing you wear. Tight clothing can trap sweat and skin oils, creating a perfect breeding ground for acne-causing bacteria. Synthetic fibers like polyester or nylon are particularly susceptible to trapping heat and moisture against your skin. This can be particularly common if you work out in tight sports bras or shorts that are made out of synthetic materials.
Don’t worry, there are ways to work around this! The most obvious one is to choose loose-fitting clothes made of natural fibers like cotton. These allow your skin to breathe. However, I know that cotton isn’t particularly great for workouts. So, if you’re active or sweat a lot, you should make it a habit to change out of sweaty clothes as soon as possible. This will prevent pore clogging and therefore minimize the chance of getting bacne.
Hygiene Habits
It might seem obvious, but your shower routine and hygiene habits can play a significant role in the formation of body acne. Not washing your back thoroughly, especially after sweating, can leave behind a film of sweat, oil, and dirt that can clog pores and lead to breakouts. However, it’s not only sweat and oil that can cause problems. For example, if you rinse out your conditioner as the last step in your shower routine, chances are that there will be residue sitting on your back. And this can often lead to breakouts.
The best way to prevent this is to use a gentle, acne-specific body wash with ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide. You could even use a back scrubber or loofah to help reach your back and cleanse effectively. Another important thing — make sure to ALWAYS wash your back after you’ve rinsed out your hair conditioner. That way your skin will stay clean and happy.
Diet and Nutrition
While the link between diet and acne is still somewhat debated, there’s plenty of anecdotal evidence pointing to the correlation between certain foods and breakouts. And honestly — I’m a firm believer in that! If I consume high glycemic foods, dairy products, and certain fats — my skin is always breaking out. So, if you’re feeling like your skin is getting worse after binging on a bag of chips or a bar of chocolate, take note of that. It doesn’t have to be the skin on your face, it could also be your back.
So, what to do if you do notice a correlation? Try monitoring your diet to see if reducing certain foods decreases your breakouts. Drinking plenty of water and eating a balanced diet rich in vegetables, fruits, and whole grains may seem like a no-brainer, but it can really make a difference in the way our skin looks.
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