Acne doesn’t only appear on the face; it can develop almost anywhere on the body. One of the most common spots? The back. “Like facial acne, back acne can appear in various forms, such as blackheads, whiteheads, and pimples,” explains Dr. Anna Chacon, a board-certified dermatologist based in Miami, Florida.
Back acne, often called “bacne,” can be especially bothersome during warm weather, making you feel self-conscious when wearing swimwear or tank tops. Treating it can be tricky because it appears in hard-to-reach places. To help you tackle back acne effectively, we consulted dermatologists to learn the best ways to remove and prevent it.
Why Does Back Acne Happen?
“Back acne is common in both men and women,” says Dr. Yoram Harth, medical director and board-certified dermatologist at MDalgorithms. He adds, “People prone to facial acne are also more likely to get back acne.”
Dr. Chacon points out that oily skin and excessive sweating can increase the likelihood of developing acne on the back. Certain lifestyle habits can also raise the risk. “Wearing tight, non-breathable clothing or carrying heavy backpacks increases friction and sweat on the back, which can contribute to acne,” she explains. Neglecting to properly cleanse the back can also lead to breakouts.
The good news? With the right skincare routine and products, back acne can be effectively managed.
How to Choose the Best Back Acne Treatment
We asked experts for advice on selecting the right products for treating back acne. Here are their key recommendations:
Product Type: “You need a medicated body wash to cleanse and remove bacteria from the area,” says Dr. Chacon. After cleansing, a topical treatment can be applied directly to specific blemishes.
Ingredients: “Look for ingredients that exfoliate, regulate oil production, and have antibacterial properties,” Dr. Chacon advises. Both she and Dr. Harth recommend products containing salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or glycolic acid. Tea tree oil is also popular for its natural antibacterial benefits.
Purpose: Dr. Chacon stresses the importance of choosing products formulated specifically for body acne rather than facial acne, as the skin on the back is thicker and usually requires stronger treatments.
Top Back Acne Treatments of 2024
Here are some of the best dermatologist-recommended and highly-rated products to help clear back acne:
1. Neutrogena Body Clear Body Wash
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Price: $12.99
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Available at: Target, Walmart, Walgreens
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Features: Contains salicylic acid to exfoliate and unclog pores; glycerin added to moisturize and prevent dryness.
2. Cetaphil PRO Acne Control Body Wash
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Price: $8.79
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Available at: Amazon, Target
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Features: 2% salicylic acid formula with shea butter and glycerin for hydration. Recommended for sensitive skin prone to body acne.
3. Naturium The Perfector Salicylic Acid Body Wash
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Price: $15.99
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Available at: Amazon, Target
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Features: Microencapsulated salicylic acid provides slow release for gentle exfoliation; fragrance-free and moisturizing.
4. CeraVe SA Body Wash
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Price: $13.99
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Available at: Amazon, Walgreens
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Features: Contains salicylic acid, ceramides to restore skin barrier, and hyaluronic acid for hydration.
5. Dove Acne Control Body Wash
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Price: $9.97
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Available at: Amazon, Target, Walgreens
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Features: Salicylic acid and glycerin for acne-fighting and moisturizing benefits; praised for its herbal scent.
6. Paula’s Choice CLEAR Acne Body Spray
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Price: $29.00
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Available at: Amazon, Paula’s Choice
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Features: A salicylic acid spray ideal for hard-to-reach back areas; gentle enough for daily exfoliation.
7. Pacifica Back Acne Warrior
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Price: $15.99
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Available at: Amazon, Walmart
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Features: Combines salicylic acid with soothing aloe vera and anti-inflammatory niacinamide; can be used up to three times daily.
8. Differin Adapalene Gel 0.1% Acne Treatment
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Price: $15.73
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Available at: Amazon, Target, Walmart
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Features: A popular over-the-counter retinoid gel; regulates skin cell turnover and prevents clogged pores.
9. Neutrogena Rapid Clear Acne Eliminating Spot Gel
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Price: $9.68
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Available at: Amazon, Walmart, Walgreens
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Features: Contains 10% benzoyl peroxide to kill acne-causing bacteria and reduce redness quickly; dries clear and invisible on skin.
How to Prevent Back Acne
Once you control your back acne, the next goal is prevention. Experts recommend these habits:
Keep Using Medicated Washes: “Continue using acne-fighting body wash even after your acne clears to keep pores clear and bacteria at bay,” says Dr. Chacon.
Wear Breathable Clothes: Choose loose, breathable fabrics, especially in warm weather, to reduce sweat and pore blockage.
Shower After Exercise: Sweat-soaked workout clothes can transfer bacteria to your back. “Shower promptly after sweating to avoid clogged pores,” Dr. Chacon advises.
Wash Bed Linens Regularly: Your sheets accumulate bacteria and dead skin cells. If you sleep on your back, wash sheets at least weekly.
Use Clean Towels: Dirty or damp towels can harbor bacteria. Always use a fresh, dry towel after showering and let towels air dry between uses.
Back acne may be stubborn, but with the right products and habits, you can clear it up and prevent future breakouts. Remember, treating back acne is a marathon, not a sprint — consistency is key.
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