What are the causes and treatments for back acne?

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concerns about your symptoms.

Painful acne on your back that has persisted for a year can definitely be challenging. This condition is commonly referred to as back acne or bacne. Since it is ongoing and painful, here are a few possible causes to consider:

1. Acne vulgaris: Common acne, often triggered by hormonal changes, especially in teenagers and young adults.
2. Cystic acne: A more severe form of acne where deeper, painful nodules form beneath the skin.
3. Folliculitis: Inflammation of the hair follicles, often caused by bacteria, sweat, or friction from clothing.
4. Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS): If the lesions are painful, recurrent, and appear in clusters or form tunnels under the skin, this might be a possibility.

Factors that can make it worse:

1. Excessive sweating and wearing tight clothing.
2. Not showering promptly after exercise or sports.
3. Hormonal fluctuations (common at your age).
4. Use of oily or greasy skin and hair products.

What you can do:

At home:

1. Use a gentle body wash containing benzoyl peroxide (5 to 10 percent) daily on the affected areas.
2. Shower regularly, especially after sweating.
3. Avoid tight or friction-causing clothing.
4. Refrain from picking or squeezing acne to prevent scarring.

Over-the-counter products:

1. Benzoyl peroxide washes or gels.
2. Salicylic acid cleansers or body sprays.
3. Topical retinoids (if available in your area).

When to see a dermatologist?

If the condition is very painful, causing scarring, and not improving after one or two months of home treatment, kindly consider going to a dermatologist. A dermatologist may prescribe oral antibiotics, topical or oral retinoids, hormonal treatments (if applicable), or steroid injections or drainage for larger cysts.

I hope this helps you.

Thank you.