Does your back and chest acne get worse during hot weather? We know the feeling! The oil and sweat clogs pores and causes breakouts – just like the zits on our face! So how do you banish body acne for good?
1. Shower right after a workout or swim
The oil, sweat and sunscreen can build up in your pores. Plus, gym mats are teeming with acne-causing bacteria – gross! Use a body wash that contains salicylic acid. You can wash acne-prone areas with facial wash, but make sure it doesn’t contain benzoyl peroxide. That ingredient works on face acne, but it can stain sheets and shirts.
2. Use an acne spot treatment
If you just get small, occasional bumps then treat them with a facial spot treatment. We like applying this at night, when we can wear super-loose shirts or tanks so the formula doesn’t get rubbed off. The treatments can help dry out pain pimples.
If you get bad or frequent breakouts, then go to a derma for a stronger prescription cream or try a special body acne product.
3. Gently exfoliate (rough scrubs make back acne worse!)
Avoid body scrubs with large grains that can irritate or dry out the skin. Go for a body wash with salicylic acid or microbeads. Use a soft sponge or shower puff and gently slough off dead skin cells.
4. Use clean towels and sponges
What’s the point of bathing when you use bacteria-infested sponges and towels? Always rinse your sponges and dry in a sunny place! Change your towels often. It’s better to hang towels outside the bathroom, because the moist environment is the perfect Germ Hotel. Eeew!
5. Check your other body products
Hair shampoo and conditioner, sunscreen, and body lotion can all contribute to acne on the shoulders. When you’re washing your hair, flip it to the front and rinse forward so you’re not getting sticky residue on your back. Switch thick sunscreens and body creams to lighter, water-based formulas. If you’re dealing with a breakout, avoid heavily scented lotions.
6. Limit your sugar and dairy intake
Studies link a high-dairy diet (milk, cheese, yoghurt) with acne. You need the calcium for strong bones, but limit your serving to one a day and see if you get less breakouts. If not, then you’re not sensitive to dairy – so go ahead and drink your milk! Your backne could be caused by other factors. Either way, cut back on the sugar. It’s been linked to acne and collagen loss, so you lower your risk for pimples and wrinkles!
7. Wear comfy underwear and shirts
Get sports wear that wicks away sweat, and make sure your bras fit well. Anything that tugs, pinches or irritates the skin will make you more prone to body acne. At home, tuck a towel under your shirt to absorb the sweat.