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Body Acne Treatment: Clearing Back, Chest, and Shoulder Breakouts

This guide provides shopping guidance only—not medical, dermatology, diagnosis, or treatment advice. For health concerns, consult a licensed professional.

Understanding Body Acne

Body acne—often called "bacne" when it appears on the back—is essentially the same as facial acne, just in a different location. It develops when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells, creating an environment where acne-causing bacteria can thrive.

The back, chest, and shoulders are common areas for body acne because they have a high concentration of oil glands. While frustrating, body acne is very common and treatable with the right approach.

Common Causes and Triggers

• Sweat: Especially when left on the skin after exercise
• Tight clothing: Creates friction and traps sweat and bacteria
• Not showering after workouts: Letting sweat dry on your skin
• Heavy backpacks or straps: Friction and pressure can trigger breakouts
• Comedogenic body products: Heavy lotions, sunscreens, or body oils
• Hair products: Conditioners and styling products that run down your back
• Hormones: Just like facial acne, hormonal fluctuations play a role
• Genetics: Some people are simply more prone to body acne

Types of Body Acne

• Blackheads and whiteheads: Clogged pores, mild acne
• Papules: Small, red, raised bumps
• Pustules: Pimples with visible pus
• Nodules: Large, painful bumps under the skin
• Cysts: Deep, painful, pus-filled lumps

Mild to moderate body acne (blackheads, whiteheads, papules, some pustules) often responds well to over-the-counter treatments. Severe, cystic body acne typically requires professional treatment.

Effective Ingredients for Body Acne

Salicylic Acid

A beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that's oil-soluble, meaning it can penetrate into pores to clear out clogs. Particularly effective for body acne because it works where the problem starts. Common in body washes and sprays.

Benzoyl Peroxide

Kills acne-causing bacteria and helps clear pores. Very effective but can bleach fabrics—wear white or old clothes while it's on your skin. Start with 2.5-5% concentrations. See also our acne-prone skincare guide.

Glycolic Acid

An alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that exfoliates the skin surface, helping prevent pores from clogging. Good for texture and mild scarring too.

Tea Tree Oil

Natural antibacterial properties. Less potent than benzoyl peroxide but may be less irritating for some people. Look for it in body washes.

Sulfur

Reduces oil and has antibacterial properties. Often found in masks and spot treatments. Has a distinctive smell.

Zinc

Anti-inflammatory and may help regulate oil production. Found in some body treatments and supplements.

Product Types for Body Acne

Medicated Body Washes

The foundation of body acne treatment. Let the product sit on your skin for 1-2 minutes before rinsing to allow active ingredients to work.

• Salicylic acid body washes (1-2%)
• Benzoyl peroxide body washes (4-10%)
• Combination cleansers

Body Sprays and Mists

Great for hard-to-reach areas like the middle of your back. Can be applied after showering or throughout the day.

Body Lotions and Treatments

Leave-on products with acne-fighting ingredients. Look for oil-free, non-comedogenic formulas.

Exfoliating Tools

Long-handled brushes or back scrubbers help you reach and gently exfoliate your back. Don't scrub too hard—irritation can worsen acne.

Building Your Body Acne Routine

Daily Shower Routine

1. Wash your hair first: Rinse shampoo and conditioner so residue doesn't stay on your back
2. Apply medicated body wash: Focus on acne-prone areas
3. Let it sit 1-2 minutes: Give active ingredients time to work
4. Rinse thoroughly: With lukewarm water
5. Pat dry: Use a clean towel
6. Apply leave-on treatment: Spray or lotion if using

Post-Workout

1. Shower as soon as possible: Don't let sweat dry on your skin
2. At minimum: Change out of sweaty clothes and use a cleansing wipe
3. Use your medicated body wash

Lifestyle Tips for Clearer Skin

• Shower after sweating: Exercise, hot days, physical work
• Wear breathable fabrics: Cotton and moisture-wicking materials
• Avoid tight clothing: Especially during workouts
• Wash workout clothes after each use: Don't re-wear sweaty clothes
• Change sheets weekly: Keep your sleep environment clean
• Clean your phone: If you hold it against your shoulder
• Check your body products: Avoid comedogenic lotions and sunscreens (see our body lotion guide)
• Be careful with hair products: Rinse conditioner thoroughly; keep styling products off your back

What to Avoid

• Harsh scrubbing: Can irritate skin and worsen acne
• Popping or picking: Leads to scarring and infection
• Too many products at once: Can irritate skin and make it hard to identify what works
• Giving up too soon: Give treatments 6-8 weeks to show results
• Occlusive body products: Heavy oils and butters on acne-prone areas

When to See a Dermatologist

Consider professional help if:

• Over-the-counter treatments haven't helped after 2-3 months
• You have deep, cystic acne
• Body acne is leaving scars
• Breakouts are painful or affect your quality of life
• You suspect it might be something other than acne (folliculitis, keratosis pilaris, etc.)

Prescription options include stronger topicals, oral antibiotics, hormonal treatments, or isotretinoin for severe cases.

Where to Shop

Frequently Asked Questions