Body Acne Can Ruin One’s Self Image

Acne can occur on other areas of the body. Most teens are more concerned with facial acne, but body acne can cause problems as well. Most often body acne is confined to the torso and upper arms although back acne can also occur on the buttocks.

Like the face the back and upper torso have more sebaceous glands per square inch than others parts of the body. This results in clogged bores, excess dead skin cells, and a proliferation of acne causing bacteria. Thus body acne becomes a real problem.

People affected with body acne often avoid activities that may require exposing the affected areas. Swimming, gym class, and sleeveless or low cut clothing are all causes of embarrassment. Body acne is uncomfortable with larger painful cysts and nodules and anything that causes excess perspiration aggravates the condition. Tight clothing, sports equipment and back packs all rub against the skin and the friction just makes acne worse.

Body Acne: Simple Personal Hygiene Tips

If you have body acne, be sure to shower as soon as possible after exercise. Use a cleanser formulated for acne and apply a gel or lotion after your shower. Avoid the temptation to scrub too vigorously.

When the skin is already irritated, scrubbing too hard will just make things worse. Be especially gentle in the neck area. The skin there is thinner, more like facial skin. The more inflamed the skin is the more likely deep scarring can occur.

Mild cases usually respond well to good daily skin care and the use of topical products containing salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide. Since the skin is thicker on the body, you may be able to use a combination of products without excessive irritation.

Body Acne: Lotions That Can Be Applied

Lotions or pad containing an alpha hydroxy acid such as glycolic or lactic acid may be used. These products speed cell turnover and exfoliate the skin reducing pore blockages.

If you notice any excess redness, irritation, and peeling skin, scale back the use of these products and consult your doctor. Do this before you try any other body acne treatments products again

If body acne is severe or not responding to over the counter treatments a dermatologist should be consulted. You may require oral antibiotics in addition to topical treatment. It is hard to be patient.

You just want your skin to be clear, but with proper treatment, it can happen. It may take a bit of time to find the right combination of products to completely deal with acne, but once you have, the long term results will be worth the wait. The reason why you may have to try different body acne products and treatments is because of the differences in skin types that we each have.