Back acne can be painful and embarrassing. Unfortunately, like all forms of acne, this condition appears to be the result of uncontrollable factors such as heredity and hormones. If you suffer from back acne, however, you may be able to take steps to reduce the occurrence and severity of breakouts. Choosing the best back acne treatment for you depends on both the severity of your condition and whether you prefer medical or natural solutions. Some people find that prevention can be a highly successful back acne treatment.
If your breakouts tend to be light, you may find that an over-the-counter topical cream or lotion is the only back acne treatment you need. Products which contain salicylic acid can inhibit breakouts by improving the skin’s ability to shed dead cells, while those which contain benzoyl peroxide can help eliminate pimple-causing bacteria from the skin’s surface. For maximum effectiveness, these products must be applied as directed on a regular basis. Note that skin treated with these products may not show visible improvement for the first several weeks of treatment.
For moderate breakouts, you may need a more intensive back acne treatment. A dermatologist can prescribe topical treatments which contain many of the same active ingredients as over-the-counter products, such as benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid, but in higher concentrations. For best results, these products should be used according to your dermatologist’s instructions. You may find that prescription-strength products initially irritate your skin, but this effect often disappears with repeated use.
Topical creams may not be sufficient to treat severe back acne. If your breakouts are very frequent, widespread, and painful, you may need an oral back acne treatment. Your dermatologist may initially prescribe an antibiotic, which can keep breakout-causing bacteria in check. Alternatively, if you are a woman, an oral contraceptive may be recommended to regulate the hormones which can contribute to acne. If all other treatments have failed, your dermatologist may prescribe isotretinoin, a drug which is generally very useful in treating acne, but which also has the potential to cause severe side effects.
Should you prefer to treat your back acne using natural solutions, you might wish to try an ointment containing tea tree oil. Studies have shown that this extract may be effective in clearing up acne on the back and elsewhere, although it may work more slowly than traditional products. Finally, many find that prevention can be a highly successful back acne treatment. Try to avoid letting dead skin and bacteria build up on your back by bathing regularly, especially if you are prone to sweating. Wear clean, loose-fitting shirts made from breathable fabrics such as cotton, and try using fragrance- and dye-free laundry detergents to avoid irritating pre-existing breakouts.
