Body acne -- commonly called bacne when it appears on the back -- affects an estimated 60% of people who experience facial acne. It can appear on the back, chest, shoulders, buttocks, and upper arms. While the underlying mechanisms are similar to facial acne, body acne often requires different products and strategies because the skin on your body is thicker and the breakouts tend to be more stubborn.

What causes body acne?

The same factors as facial acne: excess sebum, clogged pores, bacteria, and inflammation. But body acne is often worsened by factors specific to the body: sweat-trapping clothing, friction from backpacks or sports equipment, infrequent showering after exercise, occlusive body products like heavy lotions and oils, and hormonal fluctuations.

Step 1: Use the right body wash

Switch to a body wash containing salicylic acid (2%) or benzoyl peroxide (5% to 10%). Apply to affected areas and let it sit for 1 to 2 minutes before rinsing -- this contact time is crucial. Benzoyl peroxide body washes are particularly effective because they kill acne-causing bacteria on contact.

Step 2: Shower strategically

Always shower immediately after sweating. Use lukewarm water, not hot -- heat can increase inflammation. If you cannot shower right away, change out of sweaty clothes and use a body wipe with salicylic acid as a temporary measure.

Step 3: Exfoliate gently

Use a chemical exfoliant body lotion (glycolic or lactic acid) 2 to 3 times per week to prevent dead skin cell buildup. Avoid harsh physical scrubs, which can irritate active breakouts and spread bacteria.

Step 4: Treat spots directly

Apply a benzoyl peroxide spot treatment or a hydrocolloid pimple patch to stubborn individual pimples. Body skin can tolerate higher concentrations of benzoyl peroxide than facial skin -- a 5 to 10% concentration is appropriate.

Step 5: Adjust your habits

Wear breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics during exercise. Wash workout clothes after every use. Change bed sheets weekly. Let water run forward when rinsing conditioner to keep hair products off your back. Avoid occlusive body lotions on acne-prone areas.

When to see a dermatologist

If over-the-counter treatments do not improve your body acne within 8 to 12 weeks, a dermatologist can prescribe topical or oral antibiotics, spironolactone (for hormonal body acne), or isotretinoin for severe, persistent cases.