How to Get Rid of Back Acne:15 Best Remedies

Back acne can be an annoying and embarrassing condition that affects many people, especially during warmer months. It’s not just limited to teenagers; adults can suffer from back acne too. The good news is there are several ways to get rid of back acne and prevent it from recurring.

In this article, we’ll explore the 15 best remedies to get rid of back acne. Whether you’re dealing with mild or severe back acne, we’ve covered you with practical tips and expert advice.

What is back acne?

Back acne, also known as bacne, is a common skin condition that affects many people. It appears as red or white bumps, pimples, or cysts on the back, shoulders, or chest. It is medically known as Acne Vulgaris and is caused by the accumulation of sebum, an oily substance secreted by the skin, and dead skin cells that clog the pores.

Common symptoms of back acne include red or white bumps, pimples, cysts, and blackheads. These blemishes can range in size from tiny to large and can be quite painful. Other symptoms may include tenderness, itching, or burning sensations in the affected area.

how to Get Rid of Back Acne
how to Get Rid of Back Acne

Common causes of back acne

1. Improper hygiene: Poor hygiene can lead to back acne breakouts. This includes not showering regularly or not washing the back properly. Dead skin cells, sweat, and bacteria can accumulate on the skin and clog pores, leading to breakouts.

2. Tight-fitting clothes: Wearing tight-fitting clothes that rub against the skin can cause friction, leading to acne on the back. This friction can irritate the skin and cause flare-ups.

3. Stress: Stress can cause back acne, leading to increased production of hormones that can trigger excess sebum production. Stress can also cause the body to produce more cortisol, which can stimulate inflammation and contribute to acne.

4. Hormonal changes: Changes in hormone levels can cause acne on the back. Hormonal fluctuations can increase oil production, leading to clogged pores and blemishes. This is especially true during puberty, pregnancy, or menopause.

5. Sweating: Sweating can cause the pores to become clogged, leading to back acne breakouts. This is especially true for people who exercise and sweat heavily.

6. Genetics: Some individuals are more prone to developing acne on the back due to their genetics. Genetics can influence the number of oil-producing glands, the thickness of the skin, and the sensitivity of the skin to inflammation.

7. Diet: Eating certain foods can trigger the development of acne on the back. Foods high in sugar, dairy, and processed foods can cause inflammation and lead to the development of blemishes.

How to Get Rid of Back Acne with natural remedies?

1. Tea tree oil

Tea tree oil is a natural remedy that can help reduce back acne. It has powerful antibacterial, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce inflammation and kill bacteria that cause acne.

  • Wash your back with a gentle cleanser. Make sure to thoroughly rinse off all of the soap residues.
  • Pat your back dry with a clean towel.
  • Add 2-3 drops of tea tree oil to a cotton ball.
  • Gently rub the oil into your back in a circular motion.
  • Leave the oil on for 15-20 minutes.
  • Rinse off the tea tree oil with warm water.
  • Repeat this process 1-2 times per day for the best results.
  • Follow up with a moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated.

Remember to dilute the tea tree oil before use, as it is very strong and can cause skin irritation if used undiluted.

2. Aloe vera

Aloe vera is a natural remedy often used to treat skin conditions, such as back acne. It contains active compounds that help to reduce inflammation, redness, and swelling. Aloe vera can also help to reduce the appearance of acne scars. Additionally, aloe vera can help to restore the skin’s natural balance and moisturize it.

  • Cleanse your skin with a gentle cleanser. Make sure to use lukewarm water to avoid irritating your skin.
  • Apply a thin layer of Aloe Vera gel to the affected area. Massage it for 1 to 2 minutes.
  • Leave the Aloe Vera gel on your skin for 10 to 15 minutes.
  • Rinse off the gel with lukewarm water.
  • Moisturize your skin with a light, oil-free moisturizer.
  • Repeat this process twice daily, once in the morning and once at night.

Additionally, you can opt to use an aloe vera mask to help reduce the appearance of back acne. Aloe vera is a natural, gentle, and effective remedy for back acne, and it can help you achieve a clearer, brighter complexion.

3. Apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar has been used for centuries to treat various health issues, including back acne. When applied topically, it can help reduce inflammation and kill bacteria that can cause breakouts.

The acidic nature of vinegar helps to balance the pH level of the skin, which can reduce acne. Apple cider vinegar also helps to reduce the appearance of scars and discoloration from acne.

  • Mix equal amounts of apple cider vinegar and water in a small bowl.
  • Dip a cotton ball into the mixture and apply it to the affected area.
  • Leave the mixture on the skin for 10-15 minutes.
  • Rinse the area with warm water.
  • Repeat the process twice a day for the best results.

4. Baking soda

Baking soda is a great natural remedy for back acne as it helps to reduce inflammation, fight bacteria, and unclog pores. It works by exfoliating the skin, removing dirt and oil, and reducing inflammation.

Baking soda can balance the pH level of the skin and reduce the production of sebum. In addition, It helps to absorb excess moisture and reduce irritation, both of which can help reduce back acne.

  • Mix 1 teaspoon of baking soda with 2 teaspoons of water until it forms a paste.
  • Apply the paste to the affected area, massaging it gently with your fingertips.
  • Leave the paste on briefly before rinsing it with lukewarm water.
  • Pat your skin dry with a clean towel and apply a light moisturizer to hydrate your skin.
  • Repeat the process twice or thrice a week for the best results.

It’s important to be gentle when using baking soda as it can be too abrasive for some skin types. If your skin is particularly sensitive, use a gentler exfoliant or reduce the amount of baking soda.

5. Lemon juice

Lemon juice has antibacterial and astringent properties that make it a great choice for treating acne.

For best results, it is important to use fresh lemon juice. The juice from a bottle or carton will not be as effective. Additionally, it is important to ensure that your skin is not overly sensitive to lemon juice. If you experience irritation or burning, immediately rinse the lemon juice with cold water.

  • Washing your back with mild soap and warm water. This will help remove dirt, sweat, and oils contributing to acne.
  • Cut a lemon in half and squeeze the juice onto a cotton ball.
  • Apply the lemon juice to your back using the cotton ball. Make sure to cover all of the affected areas.
  • Let the lemon juice sit on your back for 10-15 minutes.
  • Rinse the lemon juice off with lukewarm water.
  • Repeat the process twice a day for the best results.

Lemon juice can also be combined with other natural ingredients for more effective acne treatment. For example, mix one tablespoon of lemon juice with one honey and apply the mixture to the affected area. Leave it on for 15 minutes before rinsing it off.

6. Honey

Honey has long been a natural remedy for many skin ailments and conditions, including back acne. It has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and skin-soothing properties that can help reduce the appearance of acne. To use honey to get rid of back acne, you can make a simple honey mask.

  • Washing your back with a gentle cleanser to remove any dirt and debris.
  • Apply honey directly to the affected area and massage it until evenly distributed.
  • Leave the honey on for about 15 minutes
  • Rinse it off with warm water.

If you want a more intensive treatment, mix honey with other natural ingredients such as aloe vera, apple cider vinegar, and lemon juice.

These ingredients can help reduce inflammation, unclog pores, and reduce bacteria. Mix equal parts of each ingredient and apply to the affected area. Leave the mixture for 10-15 minutes and then rinse with warm water.

7. Witch hazel for acne on back

Witch hazel is a natural astringent that can help reduce inflammation and redness associated with bacne. It is also antibacterial and antifungal, which can help fight off bacteria and fungi.

  • Apply a small amount of witch hazel to a cotton ball
  • Gently dab it onto the affected area.
  • Allow the witch hazel to sit on the skin for several minutes,
  • Rinse with warm water.

Witch hazel can be a great remedy for bacne and is generally very safe to use. However, it can cause skin irritation in some people, so it’s important to test a small patch of skin before applying it to the affected area. If irritation does occur, discontinue use immediately.

8. Coconut oil

Coconut oil is an excellent natural remedy for treating back acne. It has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties making it a great choice for treating spots and breakouts. Regular use can help to reduce inflammation, clear clogged pores, and reduce the appearance of scarring.

  • Wash the affected area with a mild cleanser.
  • Rinse off the cleanser, then dry the area with a clean towel.
  • Take a few drops of coconut oil and massage it into the skin in circular motions.
  • Leave the oil on for up to 20 minutes and then rinse it with warm water.

Coconut oil can also help prevent new breakouts. To do this, apply a thin layer of coconut oil to the affected area after cleansing. This will help to create a protective barrier on the skin, keeping bacteria and other irritants out.

9. Exfoliating

Exfoliating is an important part of any skincare routine, particularly for those with back acne. It helps to remove dead skin cells, which can clog pores and lead to breakouts. Additionally, it can help to unclog pores and reduce the number of bacteria on the skin.

  • Start by taking a shower or bath, and use a mild soap or cleanser.
  • Pat your back dry with a soft towel.
  • Apply a generous amount of exfoliating scrub to your back. Gently massage the scrub into your skin in circular motions.
  • Rinse the scrub off with lukewarm water.
  • Pat your back dry with a clean towel.
  • Apply an oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturizer to the area.
  • Repeat these steps two to three times per week for the best results.

When exfoliating for back acne, it’s important to use a gentle exfoliator. Avoid products that are too harsh, as this can cause irritation and worsen acne. A physical exfoliator, such as a scrub with natural ingredients like sugar, sea salt, or oatmeal, is a great option.

10. Healthy Diet

  • Eat More Probiotics: Eating probiotic-rich foods such as yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut can help balance the bacteria in your gut and reduce inflammation, which can help reduce the appearance of back acne.
  • Eat More Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, mackerel, sardines, chia, and flaxseeds, can help reduce inflammation and support a healthy balance of bacteria on the skin.
  • Eat Healthy Fats: Healthy fats such as avocados, coconut, and olive oil can help reduce inflammation and promote healthy skin. In addition, try to eat a diet rich in vitamins A and C, essential for healthy skin.
  • Drink Plenty of Water: Staying hydrated is important for healthy skin, so ensure you’re drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
  • Cut Out Refined Sugar: Sugar can cause inflammation and worsen acne. Try to avoid processed foods and added sugars as much as possible.
  • Eat Plenty of Fruits and Vegetables: Eating various fruits and vegetables can help provide your body with the vitamins and minerals it needs to fight inflammation and promote healthy skin.
  • Avoid Dairy: Dairy products can aggravate back acne and cause inflammation. Try to avoid dairy as much as possible.
Lemon Juice Acne
Home remedies to get rid of back acne

4 Best products for acne in the back

1. Benzoyl Peroxide

Benzoyl peroxide is a widely used topical treatment for back acne. It works by killing the bacteria that cause acne, blocking pores to reduce the production of oils, and exfoliating dead skin cells. It can be found in cleansers, gels, lotions, creams, and spot treatments. (Source)

  • Wash your back with a mild cleanser twice a day.
  • Apply a thin layer of a 2.5% or 5% benzoyl peroxide cream or gel to the affected area.
  • Let the cream or gel dry for 5-10 minutes, then rinse with lukewarm water.
  • Repeat the application of the benzoyl peroxide cream or gel twice daily, once in the morning and once at night.

2. Salicylic Acid

Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid that exfoliates dead skin cells and unclogs pores. It is available in washes, gels, lotions, and creams. Salicylic acid can help reduce the redness and swelling of back acne, but it may take up to two weeks of consistent use before any improvements are seen.(Source) 

3. Retinoids

Retinoids are powerful and effective medications used to treat back acne. They work by accelerating the cell turnover process, reducing clogged pores and reducing sebum production. Retinoids are often used as a topical treatment, applied directly to the affected area.

For more severe cases, a doctor may prescribe oral retinoids. Retinoids can help reduce inflammation and reduce the appearance of scars. It’s important to use these medications exactly as prescribed and to avoid overexposure to the sun, as retinoids can increase skin sensitivity. (Source)

4. Salicylic Acid

Salicylic acid is a common and effective treatment for back acne. It works by exfoliating the skin, unclogging pores, and reducing oil production. Salicylic acid is found in many over-the-counter products, including creams, lotions, gels, and cleansers. When used as directed, it can reduce the severity of back acne and help prevent future breakouts.

In more severe cases, a doctor may prescribe higher concentrations of salicylic acid or other acne medications. To get the most benefit from salicylic acid, it’s important to use the products consistently and follow instructions on the label. (Source)

5. Topical creams

Topical creams are a common treatment for back acne. They contain active ingredients such as benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, and sulfur, which work to reduce the number of bacteria on the skin.

Applying a topical cream to affected areas helps to reduce redness, swelling, and discomfort associated with back acne. You can apply the cream to the affected area twice daily and wash it off with a gentle cleanser.

It is important to avoid scrubbing the skin, as this can irritate it further. Additionally, it is important to use a moisturizer on the skin after applying the topical cream, as this can help to restore the skin’s natural balance.

How to prevent Back acne in the future?

To help prevent back acne, it is important to maintain a good skincare routine, including:

1. Wear Loose-Fitting Clothing:  Avoid wearing tight clothing, such as spandex or lycra, as these materials trap sweat and create a warm, moist environment that can aggravate back acne. Wear loose-fitting clothing made from natural fibers such as cotton and linen to allow your skin to breathe.

2. Keep Skin Clean: Wash your back regularly with a gentle cleanser. Paying special attention to areas that tend to sweat more, such as the lower back and between the shoulder blades. After washing, pat your skin dry with a soft, clean towel.

3. Avoid Excessive Sweating: Hot, humid weather and intense physical activity can cause your skin to sweat excessively, making it more prone to breakouts. Wear light, breathable clothing to minimize sweating, and shower immediately after working out.

4. Regularly cleansing and exfoliating: Regularly cleansing and exfoliating the skin can help reduce acne. You can use an exfoliating scrub to lightly scrub the affected area and remove any built-up oils and dirt.

5. Use Non-Comedogenic Products: Use only non-comedogenic products on your back. These products are specifically designed to not clog pores, which can lead to breakouts. You can use products that contain salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, tea tree oil, or sulfur to clear back acne.

6. Don’t Touch Your Skin: Your hands, clothes, and anything else that touches your back can transfer bacteria, dirt, and sweat, which can clog pores and cause breakouts. Avoid touching your back, and keep your hands clean. In addition, you should avoid picking, popping, or squeezing the acne, as this can cause scarring.

7. Shower After Swimming: Chlorine can dry out your skin and increase the risk of breakouts. So, shower as soon as possible after swimming to rinse away chlorine and other chemicals. Use a non-comedogenic moisturizer to keep the skin hydrated and prevent further breakouts.

8. Use Sunscreen: Sun exposure can dry out your skin and worsen breakouts. Wear sunscreen on your back whenever you are in the sun.

9. Avoid Trigger Foods: Eating foods high in sugar, dairy, or processed foods can increase inflammation, which can trigger acne. Avoiding these foods and focusing on a healthier diet can help reduce back acne breakouts.

10. Reduce stress: Stress can be a major trigger for back acne, so learning how to manage stress is key. Try relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, yoga, or meditation to help ease stress. Taking breaks throughout the day and scheduling regular downtime can also help.

11. Exercise regularly and stay hydrated: Regular physical activity can also help reduce stress and improve mood. Aim to get 7-9 hours of sleep each night to help keep stress levels low.

When to see a doctor?

If you have severe or persistent acne on your back, you should see a doctor. Symptoms warrant seeing a doctor include back acne that is painful, extensive, and widespread.

If you have acne cysts, which are large, painful bumps deep within the skin, you should also seek medical attention.

Additionally, if you have tried over-the-counter medications and home remedies for several weeks and still have not seen any improvement, it is best to consult a doctor.

2 thoughts on “How to Get Rid of Back Acne:15 Best Remedies

  1. My little brother has really bad acne and he would really like it to go away. I found it interesting that Aloe Vera can help him get rid of the acne and his skin recover from the acne. It might be a good idea for him to talk to a dermatologist about it before starting to use it as a treatment for the acne.

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