Understand What’s Happening 

“The back contains a high concentration of oil-producing sebaceous glands, which can make the hair follicles more prone to becoming blocked with excess oil and dead skin cells. Friction, sweating and occlusive clothing – particularly during exercise – can further irritate the follicles and aggravate breakouts. However, not everyone develops back acne, even when exposed to the same triggers, which highlights the importance of genetic predisposition. If acne runs in your family, you may be more likely to experience it yourself. Diet may also play a role in some people, with evidence suggesting that dairy-based products can aggravate acne in those who are susceptible.” – Dr Derrick Phillips, consultant dermatologist

Factor In Your Exercise Routine

“Showering promptly after your workout is really important – you want to avoid sitting around in sweaty gym kit or tight clothing. It’s also a good idea to keep haircare products off your back and shoulders while in the shower as richer conditioners and styling products can contribute to congestion. Choose breathable fabrics where possible and wash your activewear regularly.” – Dr Sam Bunting, dermatologist 

Be Mindful Of The Products You’re Putting On Your Skin 

“Using the wrong skincare can also contribute to back acne. Washing or moisturising the back with oils, or applying thick, occlusive creams, may aggravate breakouts in acne-prone skin. I recommend choosing lightweight, non-comedogenic products instead.” – Derrick

Look For The Right Ingredients 

“Incorporate ingredients into your routine that help unclog pores, smooth texture and reduce congestion. Salicylic acid is helpful for calming breakouts, while retinoids help keep your pores unclogged. My Flawless Body Cleanser is a good daily first step, powered by lactic acid and mandelic acid to gently exfoliate, unclog pores and smooth the skin without stripping it. For active or widespread breakouts, my Flawless Neutralising Gel Roller is an easy leave-on step, with the roller making larger areas like the back, chest and shoulders easier to treat.” – Sam 

“Niacinamide may help calm inflammation and support the barrier. Designed for normal-to-oily skin types, CeraVe’s Foaming Cleanser is a gentle gel formula that works to remove excess oil and dirt without disrupting the skin barrier. If your back acne is predominantly comedonal – presenting as blackheads and whiteheads – focusing on chemical exfoliation may be particularly helpful. In this case, a salicylic acid formula such as the CeraVe SA Smoothing Cleanser may be a better choice.” – Derrick

Tweak Your Diet 

“Diet may also play a role in some people. Try to limit heavily processed and sugary foods; and if you use protein supplements, consider a plant-based option instead of whey protein, which can aggravate acne in susceptible individuals.” – Derrick

Take A Hands-Off Approach 

“Avoid squeezing or picking spots as this increases inflammation and the risk of scarring. It’s also important not to delay treatment. If you have inflammatory acne with deep-seated nodules or cysts, you are at greater risk of developing permanent scars, and skincare alone is unlikely to resolve it. In these circumstances, it’s best to see a consultant dermatologist, as you may require prescription treatments.” – Derrick 

Ignore The Myths

“One of the biggest myths out there is that body acne is caused by being ‘dirty’. It is not. Over-scrubbing or using harsh, stripping products can actually aggravate the skin barrier and make breakouts worse. Body skin deserves the same intelligent care as the face: effective actives, used consistently, without irritation. Body acne is common, treatable and nothing to be embarrassed about. The biggest mistake is either ignoring it completely or going in too hard with harsh scrubs, heavily fragranced washes and drying formulas. Treat your body with the same respect as your face.” – Sam 

Visit DrDerrickPhillips.com & DrSamBunting.com