How to treat red and painful bumps on my back?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 14-year-old male and have eight to ten bumps on my back which are red in color. They do not itch but are painful. However, I feel a slight itching when I sweat. They do not seem to improve in condition since I discovered them about a week ago. Kindly suggest.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have read your query and understand your concern. I have seen the pictures (attachment removed to protect the patient's identity) attached. From your descriptions and given pictures, it seems you have trunkal acne. Tight-fitting exercise clothing that traps sweat next to the skin on the back can block pores and may contribute to outbreaks. You should consider wearing loose-fitting clothes, especially during a heavy gym session. Showering after sweating and using gentle cleansers applied with the fingertips can help to reduce the risk of acne breakouts on the back. Other tips for reducing the risk of back acne breakouts are:

Having a shower after sweating.
Using fingertips to apply a gentle and non-abrasive cleanser.
Avoiding products that irritate your skin.
Avoid scrubbing the affected areas.
Avoid popping, picking, or squeezing spots because this may lead to their spreading and scarring.
Stay out of the sun and avoid tanning beds, as the damaged skin is more prone to acne.
You can start using 5% Benzoyl peroxide twice daily and take capsule Doxycyclin 100 mg once daily for one month. Consult your specialist doctor, discuss with them and take medications with their consent.
For cleaning your back, you can use Moisturex body wash (Sodium lauryl Sarcosinate, Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate, Disodium cocoamphoacetate, Lauryl Glucoside, and Decyl Glucoside).
You must follow certain dietary restrictions, like avoiding spicy, oily, junk food, milk products, and non-vegetarian food. Drink a lot of water to hydrate your skin.

Thank you.