Best Treatments for Back Acne and Body Scars

Updated on: 1st January, 2022

Acne is a common skin problem that everyone faces at some point in life. If you have trouble with pimples, back acne scars, and body acne, then it’s important to understand exactly how and why acne occurs.

Back acne consists of pimples, cysts, or papules that swell up on the back, shoulders, and neck area. Such pimples result from the skin’s excess production of sebum and oils from various glands, usually through hair follicles. This excess oil causes blocked pores and the accumulation of dead skin cells and bacteria called Propionibacterium acne (P acne). The resultant bacteria buildup causes the pores to swell up into whiteheads or blackheads and even cysts, which are painful, puss-filled lumps. It’s important to treat acne, as these painful lumps can cause black spots, which are post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and scarring. All of this can greatly reduce self-esteem and confidence.

These pimples leave annoying scars and marks on the skin that are not easy to get rid of. This isn’t just limited to the face. Back acne scars, acne scarring on the buttocks, body scarring, and acne on the neck are also persistent issues that many people face.

Some types of scars that acne can leave on the body are as follows:

These are deep and narrow scars that leave pitted marks all over the skin.

These are broader marks with sloping edges that look like lumps.

These are wide scars with sharp edges.

These are flat and thin marks left from pimples.

Acne starts appearing on the skin during puberty, as the body experiences changes in different hormones. It usually resolves itself in the late teens or early 20s. However, this is not always the case, and sometimes certain people are predisposed to recurring acne problems even after puberty.

Some reasons for pimples and back acne are:

• Greater sensitivity to hormones
• Genetic predisposition
• Side effects of other medications
• Hormonal imbalances caused due to stress, or menstruation in women
• Excess sweating
• Certain foods, especially carbohydrates like bread and starchy foods, also contribute to acne
• Fungal acne or fungal acneiform eruptions on the back are caused due to Pityriasis Ovale, a type of yeast that is naturally

Now that you know why acne develops on the skin, you can take the necessary steps to prevent it. There are many lifestyle changes and well-known remedies to get rid of pimples on the back of the body and body scarring caused due to acne. The following are some natural remedies you can try to keep acne under control.

Acne on the back and shoulders is mainly due to athletic activities and sports gear that may rub against the skin and cause irritation. If you sweat a lot during these activities, it’s likely the main reason for body acne. If you remain in sweaty clothes long after your workout, it leads to bacterial buildup causing blockages in the skin’s pores. To prevent this, shower immediately after workouts and also remember to wash the clothes as well. Wear lightweight, cotton clothes that are not too tight to prevent excessive sweat from getting trapped in the skin and allow the skin to breathe.

Use scrubs with mild exfoliating beads to gently scrub away dead skin cells. Opt for products containing ingredients like neem and salicylic acid, as they remove excess oil and sebum from the skin.

Our bedspreads and sheets contain loads of dead skin cells and bacteria. Regularly changing sheets may prevent skin irritation and bacterial buildup while you sleep.

Tea tree oil is a well-known treatment for a variety of skin issues. Originating from the leaves of a tree native to Australia, this ingredient has anti-fungal properties known to reduce bacterial buildup. The nourishing oil is even known to lighten scars and promote skin regeneration.

UV rays from the sun trigger acne and scarring. Wear sunscreen daily to protect your skin from sun damage as well as to prevent breakouts.

Scars cannot be removed only with creams and gels and dermatologists can recommend the best procedures for the same. Opt for products containing ingredients like sulfur, salicylic acid, and benzoyl peroxide to prevent breakouts and new pimples. Get advice from a dermatologist for better recommendations.

If the back acne scars and cystic growth are excessive, home remedies may not be effective. To get the best before and after results, the following are some recommendations for acne removal:​

The skin forms a scab and heals, thus giving scar-free skin. This medical procedure is also a good back acne scars treatment.

If you ask a dermatologist how to treat acne scars on your back and shoulders, he/she might also recommend a cleanser and moisturizer for your skin, ask you not to pick at the pimples, advise the use of sunscreen, and ask you to take vitamin C supplements and keep yourself hydrated. These are not the treatments for back and body acne scars but are some useful tips which prevent the skin condition from worsening and speed up the process of healing.

So, this was about how to treat back acne scars. However, before opting for any treatment, take professional help. Note that only a dermatologist would be able to guide you on the best treatments for acne scar removal and help you attain healthy and blemish-free skin.

A skin specialist or dermatologist can recommend the right medication for your specific skin and acne-related concerns. Medication could be antibiotics that will kill bacteria and reduce inflammation. These may need to be taken along with certain creams or gels. In the case of hormonal imbalances, birth control pills are also known to be effective but need to be taken only under a doctor’s guidance. Consult with your skin specialist to know the different options that are available for your skin condition.

If a serious acne problem persists and hampers your everyday life, you may want to consider medical procedures like laser and other light therapies. Chemical peels and steroid injections may be recommended depending on the severity of the condition. For painful growths, drainage and extraction is the best remedy to eliminate the pus and reduce pain. Ask your dermatologist for creams and gels to treat scars post-surgery. Apart from this, chemical peels and lasers can also treat scars.

Everyone has bouts of acne due to the bacteria living on the skin. The severity of acne can also vary from person to person. If you have a severe condition, always consult with a doctor before taking medication. There’s no need to panic, as a range of treatments and methods are available to help your skin clear out. Clear Skin is one such solution to all your acne problems.

Clear Skin has decades of experience in dermatology and specializes in treating acne-prone skin. With trained experts to assess your skin needs along with state-of-the-art medical facilities and equipment, you’re sure to receive the very best treatments and skincare. Clear Skin has helped numerous individuals suffering from acne achieve clear and glowing, acne-free skin. With outstanding success rates and positive testimonials, you can be assured of quality service and care.

So, get ready to achieve flawless skin with the very best treatments and remedies.