Acne is one of the most common skin concerns worldwide and unsurprisingly, doesn't always just affect the face. Characterised by whiteheads, blackheads, pustules and oily skin on the back, bacne can be just as frustrating and damaging to self-esteem as facial acne, especially during the summer when symptoms tend to get worse due to the hot weather. It's important to remember that conditions like bacne are common, however there are ways to prevent it.
What causes bacne?
Just like acne on the face, bacne is often caused by an excess of sebum (oil) and dead skin cells that clog the pores and cause blemishes to form. This can be aggravated by tight clothing, sweat on the skin after workouts or in hot weather or lifestyle choices.
How to prevent bacne
Bacne can be treated and prevented in the same way as acne on the face. Living a healthy lifestyle including physical activity, a healthy diet, not smoking and keeping stress levels down can all help with overall skin health, however the below steps can also be taken to help with those stubborn spots that won't budge.
Cleanse
Keeping the skin clean through regular cleansing is one of the most important steps in prevention of acne; cleansing helps to remove excess oil, dirt, sweat and dead skin from the pores, preventing bacteria and blemishes from forming. Make sure to regularly cleanse daily, especially after exercising or sweating that can cause added build up on the skin. The CeraVe Smoothing Cleanser is ideal for the face, neck, chest and back, containing a powerful blend of both Salicylic Acid which dissolves dead skin cells and impurities, cleansing deep into the pores, and Hyaluronic Acid which keeps the skin hydrated. Massage the cleanser into the skin for 3-5 minutes for a deep cleanse and then rinse with water.
Exfoliate
Exfoliating 1-2 times per week helps to deeply unblock pores, removing impurities from the skin as well as excess sebum, leaving the skin's texture smoother and reducing blemishes. The La Roche-Posay Effaclar Micro-Peeling Purifying Gel Wash can be used on both the face and body and is formulated specifically to target persistent imperfections. Suitable for even sensitive skin, the Gel contains a mix of Salicylic Acid, LHA and Zinc, which all work to decongest blocked pores to prevent bacteria build up. Enriched with the brand's famous Thermal Spring Water, the Wash keeps the skin moisturised and supported.
Designed specifically for the body, the AMELIORATE Smoothing Body Exfoliant contains powerful AHA's and Lactic Acid that clear out the pores and buff away dead skin cells. Effective on conditions including bacne and Keratosis Pilaris, the Exfoliant resurfaces the skin to leave it looking and feeling smoother and softer.
Apply an acne treatment
Use an acne treatment on the affected area to reduce bacteria and soothe inflammation. Look out for products containing Salicylic Acid, Glycolic Acid and Tea Tree which all help to keep pores unclogged and have antibacterial benefits that prevent acne breakouts.
The AMELIORATE Transforming Body Lotion contains AHAs that help to decongest pores whilst it moisturises. Designed for coarse and bumpy skin, the lotion also uses Lactic Acid which removes dead skin which can also contribute to bacne.
Alternatively, the Murad Clarifying Body Spray comes in an easy to use, 360 degree spray bottle that easily applies to those tricky areas of the back that are often out of reach. The expert formula contains Salicylic Acid that helps keep the pores clear and clean and prevents new breakouts from forming. Use the treatment up to three times a day for best results.
Wear SPF!
Although it's thought that the sun can help clear acne, it can actually do the opposite! UV rays can not only damage the skin, but can add to inflammation and scarring, making them last longer and become more prominent. As advised all year round, wear an SPF to keep the skin protected and prevent hyperpigmentation and scarring, especially when you're going to be in prolonged exposure to the sun. Chose an oil-free formula that won't clog the pores or irritate your acne such as the La Roche-Posay Anthelios Ultra-Light Invisible Fluid SPF50+ Sun Cream.
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Wear loose fitting clothing
Keep your clothes clean and opt for looser fitting options where possible; tight clothing can transfer dirt and build up onto the skin which can cause bacteria to build up when left. Try not to stay in sweaty gym clothes too long after working out and avoid wearing backpacks which can contribute to sweat.
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