Back acne, or “bacne”, is a common problem that many people struggle with. Acne, wherever it may occur on the skin, happens due to excess sebum and oil that clogs the pores and causes pustules, bumps, and pimples. Not only is it not a pleasant sight to have those acne marks on your back, but some can also be painful. While there can be many causes of back acne and not all of them can be actively controlled, there are effective home remedies for back acne that can be explored to prevent them.
Causes of Back Acne
1. Sweat
People who sweat profusely and remain in those clothes for long periods are more prone to back acne.
2. Friction
Certain types of clothing, backpacks, and sporting equipment that rub against sweaty skin can exacerbate acne.
3. Poor Hygiene
Maintaining good hygiene, including regular cleansing and exfoliating, can help prevent acne. Unclean hair, bedsheets, and cushion covers can contribute to acne when your back rubs against them.
4. Overly Oily Skin and Dead Skin Cells
People with oily skin are generally more prone to bacne since their pores get clogged faster. Exfoliating regularly can help keep the pores clear and remove dead skin cells.
5. Hormonal Imbalance
Puberty and pregnancy can alter hormonal balance, increasing the likelihood of acne breakouts.
Different Kinds of Back Acne
- Pimples and Blackheads: Small bumps with a raised red or white centre.
- Cysts and Nodules: Large and painful lumps beneath the skin’s surface.
- Hyperpigmentation: Dark spots left after the pimples are gone.
Natural Homemade Remedies For Back Acne
Here are some natural home remedies for back acne that use simple ingredients you may already have at home.
Tea tree oil is renowned for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it an effective home remedy for back acne.
How to Use
- Dilute tea tree oil with a carrier oil like coconut or olive oil (1 part tea tree oil to 10 parts carrier oil).
- Apply it to the affected areas using a cotton ball.
- Leave it on for at least 15-20 minutes before rinsing off with lukewarm water.
- Repeat daily for the best results.
Caution
Always perform a patch test first, as tea tree oil can cause skin irritation in some people.
2. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar has natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that help balance the skin’s pH levels. The acidity helps to kill bacteria and balance oil production.
How to Use
- Mix equal parts apple cider vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
- After showering, spray the mixture onto your back and let it dry naturally.
Caution
Apple cider vinegar can be irritating to sensitive skin, so it’s important to dilute it and avoid using it on broken skin.
3. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is known for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps to reduce redness, swelling, and accelerates the healing of acne lesions.
How to Use
- Use Forest Essentials’ Pure Aloe Vera Gel and apply it to the pimples.
- Leave it on for 20-30 minutes, then rinse off with lukewarm water.
- Repeat this process 2-3 times a day.
4. Baking Soda
Baking soda acts as a gentle exfoliant that helps remove dead skin cells and unclog pores.
How to Use
- Create a paste by mixing 2 tablespoons of baking soda with enough water to form a thick consistency.
- Apply the paste to the back and let it sit for 10-15 minutes before rinsing off with warm water.
- Use this remedy once a week to avoid over-drying the skin.
Caution
Baking soda can be harsh on sensitive skin, so use this remedy sparingly.
5. Oatmeal
Oatmeal helps to soothe irritated skin, reduce inflammation, and absorb excess oil, making it an excellent remedy for back acne.
How to Use
- Add 1-2 cups of finely ground oatmeal to a warm bath.
- Soak in the oatmeal bath for 20-30 minutes, gently rubbing the oatmeal over your back to cleanse the skin.
- Pat dry with a towel.
- This can be done a few times a week for the best results.
6. Honey and Cinnamon Mask
Honey has antibacterial properties, while cinnamon has anti-inflammatory effects. Together, they can help reduce acne and prevent future breakouts.
How to Use
- Mix 2 tablespoons of honey with 1 teaspoon of cinnamon to form a paste.
- Apply this mask to your back and leave it on for 15-20 minutes.
- Rinse off with warm water.
- Use this mask 2-3 times a week.
Caution
Cinnamon can be irritating to the skin, so do a patch test first.
7. Lemon Juice
Lemon juice contains citric acid, which acts as a natural astringent and helps to dry out acne, making it a suitable ingredient for back acne treatment at home.
How to Use
- Squeeze the juice from a fresh lemon and apply it to the affected areas using a cotton ball.
- Leave it on for 10-15 minutes, then rinse off with cool water.
- Use this remedy once a day.
Caution
Lemon juice can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, so apply sunscreen before going outside.
8. Epsom Salt Bath
Epsom salt helps to detoxify the skin and reduce inflammation. It also helps to exfoliate and unclog pores.
How to Use
Dissolve 2 cups of Epsom salt in a warm bath and soak for 20-30 minutes.
Rinse off with warm water afterward.
This remedy can be used 2-3 times a week.
Caution
Avoid using soap immediately after an Epsom salt bath, as it can strip away the salt’s beneficial minerals.
9. Turmeric Paste
Turmeric contains curcumin, which has potent anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that help reduce acne.
How to Use
- Mix 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder with enough water or honey to form a paste.
- Apply this paste to the affected areas and leave it on for 15-20 minutes.
- Rinse off with warm water.
- Use this remedy 2-3 times a week.
Caution
Turmeric can stain the skin and clothing, so wear old clothes and rinse thoroughly.
10. Green Tea Spray
Green tea is rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties that aid in back acne removal reduce acne and protect the skin from damage.
How to Use
- Brew a cup of green tea, let it cool, and transfer it to a spray bottle.
- After showering, spray the green tea onto your back and let it air dry.
- Use this remedy daily.
Caution
Ensure the tea is cool before application to avoid burns.
Conclusion
These simple back acne remedies can soothe your skin, minimise acne, and help prevent future breakouts. Maintaining good hygiene, such as bathing daily, exfoliating regularly, wearing clean clothing, and keeping oneself as sweat-free as possible, can also significantly reduce the occurrence of bacne.
FAQs
Are homemade remedies for back acne safe and effective?
Yes, most homemade remedies are safe and effective, although they may take some time to show results.
When should I consider professional help instead of homemade remedies?
If you need to clear away your acne faster and aren’t getting the desired relief from home remedies or if your acne is painful, you can consult a dermatologist who’ll recommend medicated creams.
Does aloe vera help back acne?
Aloe vera contains anti-bacterial properties that can help control and reduce acne-causing bacteria.
What are some lifestyle changes that can help manage back acne?
Taking care of your skin with simple tasks such as bathing daily, regular exfoliation to get rid of dead skin cells, wearing clothes that are not harsh on the skin, and drying yourself up quickly after sweating can help avoid back acne.
What are the best ingredients for back acne?
The best ingredients for back acne include aloe vera, tea tree oil, lemon juice, honey and cinnamon among others.
References
https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/acne/DIY/back-acne
https://www.dermatologytimes.com/view/all-you-need-to-know-about-back-acne
https://www.theindependentpharmacy.co.uk/acne/guides/back-acne-treatments