Back acne, commonly known as “backne,” is a widespread and often annoying skin issue that many individuals experience. While we typically associate acne with the face, it can actually appear on various parts of the body, including the back.
To help you understand this better, we consulted two dermatologists who provided their professional insights on the causes of back acne, effective treatment options, and the best strategies to prevent it from coming back.
Meet Our Experts
- Dr Felix Yap Boon Bin serves as a Dermatology Consultant at Sunway Medical Centre, focusing on a range of skin conditions, including acne, skin infections, and aesthetic issues. He also performs various procedures such as chemical peels, fillers, and laser treatments aimed at addressing skin lesions and promoting rejuvenation.
- Dr Mok Zhun Rui is a Consultant Dermatologist at The Dermatology Practice @ Camden, where he specializes in treating acne, eczema, psoriasis, and immunohematology. He is also skilled in advanced dermatosurgery and Mohs Micrographic Surgery for skin cancer treatment.
What Is Back Acne?
Source: Depositphotos
Dr Felix Yap Boon Bin explains, “Back acne, also known as “bacne,” refers to acne that primarily affects the back but can also appear on the chest. It typically presents as itchy, painful small bumps (papules) and pus-filled lesions (pustules).”
“As the name suggests, these are lesions over the back that may take the form of blackheads (open comedones), white heads (closed comedones), inflamed red raised spots (pimples), pustules or cysts,” Dr Mok Zhun Rui says.
Related Read: 18 Bad Skin Habits That Accelerate Ageing and How to Break Them
What’s Causing Your Back Acne?
Dr Yap states that the causes of back acne are largely the same as those for facial acne. He notes that “hormonal fluctuations, excessive oil production, and clogged hair follicles from keratin build-up are common contributors. Inflammation from Cutibacterium acnes also plays a role.”
Key Causes Include:
- Hormonal changes leading to increased oil production
- Stress and anxiety, which may trigger or worsen breakouts
- Poor back hygiene and the use of topical products that clog pores
- Sweat accumulation and friction from tight clothing, sports gear, or backpacks
- Excessive testosterone use, particularly among bodybuilders, can worsen acne, especially in men and adolescents
In some cases, Dr Yap highlights that an overgrowth of the fungus Malassezia can lead to a condition known as Malassezia folliculitis. “This fungal infection can be exacerbated by using topical or oral steroids,” he adds.
Dr Mok dives deeper into the flip side of the page, breaking down the causes into two main categories.
Intrinsic Causes:
- Stress
- Hormonal fluctuations
- A family history of bad acne
- Baseline overproduction of sebum (oil) on the skin. This is usually seen in the young active age groups
Extrinsic Causes:
- Poor skincare routine
- Use of certain medications
- Certain job or occupational exposures
- Bacterial or fungal overgrowth of the skin
- Occlusion of the skin through tight clothing. Friction, irritation and clogged pores are a sequelae of that.
Is Back Acne Just Facial Acne’s Twin?
Source: Depositphotos
“Back acne can be an extension of facial acne, or it can occur on its own,” Dr Mok said.
He emphasises that “acne affects large areas of the body, such as the face, back, underarms, and groyne region, as this may indicate a more systemic inflammatory condition like hidradenitis suppurativa. This may require the use of oral or systemic medications.”
Dr Yap pointed out that back acne is pretty much like facial acne when it comes to what causes it and how to treat it.
Can Your Back Have a Breakout While Your Face Is Clear?
If you’re curious whether your back is following its own set of skin rules, the answer is definitely yes!
“While facial acne is more prevalent, it is not unusual for individuals to experience back acne without facial acne,” Dr Yap highlighted.
Dr Mok agreed, adding, “Yes, it is possible. Should this occur, we look towards some of the extrinsic causes (mentioned above) to ensure there are no lifestyle factors that are contributing to this!”
Can Your Face’s Faves Help With Your Back Acne Too?
When asked whether facial acne products can be used for back acne, Dr Mok explained, “There are certain active ingredients in facial acne products that will exert an effect both on the facial and back skin.
However, if there’s an overlay of bacterial or fungal overgrowth, which is more common on the back, antibacterial or antifungal treatments may be needed.”
He also emphasised the difference in skin texture between the face and back, “it’s important to recognise that the quality and thickness of the skin is different in both areas. The formulation of the product—whether it’s texture or consistency—is important when selecting treatments.”
Dr Yap shared his thoughts, highlighting that “facial acne products can generally be used for back acne, provided they target the underlying causes, such as excess oil, blocked hair follicles, Cutibacterium acnes infection, and inflammation.
Ingredient Spotlight: What to Look For to Banish Back Acne
When it comes to treating back acne, Dr Mok shared several key ingredients to look out for. “There are common ingredients that may help in treating back acne, though some may require a prescription,” he explained.
Here are a few he highlighted:
- Zinc: Contains both anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial agents
- Azelaic acid: It has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties
- Tea tree oil (3-5%): A natural anti-inflammatory and antibacterial compound
- Benzoyl peroxide (2.5-5%): An antibacterial and comedolytic agent that helps unclog pores
- Retinoids (Vitamin A derivatives): They’re anti-inflammatory, help exfoliate, and stimulate collagen production
- Alpha and beta hydroxy acids (Glycolic/salicylic acid): These are great exfoliants that help remove dead skin cells and prevent clogged pores
Dr Yap also offered advice, saying, “Over-the-counter options like salicylic acid and azelaic acid are often good choices. Retinoids are beneficial for comedonal acne, but typically require a prescription,” he added.
Dr Yap further emphasised the importance of using oil-free cleansers and considered sulphur-containing cleansers may help with Malassezia-related acne. “Always opt for products labelled as non-comedogenic to avoid clogging pores,” he said.
Best Back Acne Products To Try
Paula’s Choice Weightless Body Treatment
Revitalise your skin with this Weightless Body Treatment that has 2% salicylic acid. This mild leave-on exfoliant sweeps away dead skin cells, revealing the smoother, more radiant skin underneath.
The salicylic acid helps to smooth out rough areas and enhance your skin’s texture, while antioxidants work to keep your skin looking healthy and shielded. It’s ideal for dealing with stubborn, clogged pores on your arms and legs.
The silky, lightweight lotion feels great on your skin, making your skincare routine super easy.
Get this for S$49 from Paula’s Choice.
The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution
The Salicylic Acid 2% Solution is a water-based serum made for skin that gets blemishes, particularly helpful for those with clogged pores and rough texture. It gently exfoliates, removing dead skin cells that can block pores and lead to breakouts.
This serum is a fantastic choice for tackling back acne, as it addresses the underlying issues causing breakouts and helps keep your skin clearer and smoother.
Get this for S$14 (30ml) from Sephora.
Mario Badescu Special Cleansing Lotion “O”
For a natural, non-comedogenic option, check out Mario Badescu Special Cleansing Lotion “O.” This body lotion is specifically designed for acne-prone skin on your back, neck, and chest, featuring a strong antiseptic formula that helps clear up breakouts in those areas.
Enriched with cucumber extracts, it feels refreshing when applied. With regular use, this lotion helps promote clearer skin by tightening pores and minimising the look of acne and blemishes, while also working to prevent future breakouts.
It’s an excellent choice for keeping your skin healthy and clear.
Get this for S$26 (236ml) from Sephora.
CeraVe SA Lotion for Rough & Bumpy Skin
CeraVe is a versatile brand suitable for all skin types. Their SA Lotion for Rough & Bumpy Skin is a lightweight, non-greasy moisturiser packed with ceramides, salicylic acid, lactic acid, and hyaluronic acid.
This lotion gently exfoliates to enhance skin texture while delivering hydration and calming properties. It works to smooth out rough areas and repair the skin barrier, making it a great option for anyone wanting to improve their skin’s overall look and feel.
Ideal for everyday use, it leaves your skin feeling soft and revitalised.
Get this for S$49.89 from Amazon.
The Raw Acne Ceramides Cleanser
The salicylic acid in The Raw Acne Ceramides Cleanser is perfect for anyone dealing with acne-prone skin. This cleanser is made to thoroughly clean and gently exfoliate while also protecting your skin’s natural barrier.
With 2% salicylic acid, it helps soothe breakouts, minimise blackheads and whiteheads, and improve the look of pores. The formula removes excess oil and dead skin cells while unclogging pores to prevent new acne from forming.
Packed with five essential ceramides, cholesterol, fatty acids, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin B5, it keeps your skin clean, calm, and healthy without causing irritation.
Get this for S$30 (150g) from Shopee.
T3 Acne Body Wash – Bactericidal
You can easily find T3 Acne Body Wash at drugstores like Watsons, and it’s the top acne body wash in Malaysia. This specially designed wash contains a bactericidal agent that effectively targets Propionibacterium acne, the bacteria that cause pimples.
It also features natural Australian tea tree oil, which is known for its anti-inflammatory benefits and ability to unclog pores.
Glycerin is added to help retain moisture and prevent dryness, while the 5.5 pH level helps keep your skin balanced. Safe for daily use, pour the amount you need onto your hand or sponge, lather it on wet skin, and rinse off for clear and refreshed skin.
Get this for S$24.25 from Watsons.
First Aid Beauty KP Bump Eraser Body Scrub With 10% AHA
Exfoliating is a great way to improve your skin’s texture, and First Aid Beauty’s KP Bump Eraser Body Scrub with 10% AHA is an excellent choice.
This quick-acting scrub features a blend of glycolic and lactic acids at a total concentration of 10%, which helps resurface the outer layer of your skin for a smoother look. The pumice buffing beads provide physical exfoliation, effectively sloughing away dead skin cells and unclogging pores.
This scrub combines the benefits of both a chemical peel and microdermabrasion, revealing healthier skin and enhancing overall texture with regular use.
Get this for S$50 (226g) from Sephora.
Medicube Red Acne Body Wash
This body wash from Medicube is designed to combat hormonal body acne, effectively targeting breakouts on the back, underarms, chest, and butt. It gently exfoliates dead skin cells and impurities while soothing irritated skin to help prevent future breakouts.
With its deep cleansing abilities, it eliminates impurities without drying out the skin and helps maintain a balanced pH level.
Clinically tested and safe for sensitive skin, this acne treatment is a great option for anyone seeking to clear and soothe their body skin.
Get this for S$43.80 from Medicube. A discount is available at the time of writing, tap in to see the discounted price.
