Most people think of acne as something that affects the face. After all, many advertisements for acne creams and products focus on visible facial acne. Despite this, though, body acne that affects the shoulders, back, neck, chest, and buttocks is very common. Although in theory clothes can cover it up, body acne can be a serious problem. It can be uncomfortable and can affect self-esteem. In the summer, it can make wearing lighter clothing a problem. Serious body acne can even leave embarrassing stains on clothing.

Body acne can be a sign of sever acne. Many people who have body acne have facial acne as well as acne on other parts of their bodies. Body acne can range from fairly mild outbreaks to severe skin problems characterized by red, painful, pus-filled lesions. Healthcare professionals are not certain what causes body acne, although hormones and genetics seem to play a role in the development of acne.

There are a number of commercial and over-the-counter products that may be able to help body acne. However, since each case is different, it is important for anyone suffering from body acne to visit a qualified dermatologist before beginning any treatment. A good dermatologist can help suggest specific treatments and can monitor treatments to prevent reactions and scarring. An experienced dermatologist can help a patient recover more fully from body acne and can help ensure the best care during treatment.

There are many treatments that a dermatologist can prescribe for body acne. Light cases are often treated with over-the-counter acne treatments that include benzoyl peroxide and other substances used to treat facial blemishes. Many of these treatments bleach fabric, so patients using these regimens may need to wear white or apply lotions only at night. For more severe cases of body acne, dermatologists may recommend a prescription substance such as glycolic acid (alpha hydroxy). Every treatment for body acne may produce some dryness and skin irritation as well as some other side effects. It is very important to discuss possible side effects with a dermatologist before taking any treatment for body acne. If you are taking a treatment for body acne and notice severe or unusual side effects, contact your healthcare professional right away.

In addition to medication, there are things that patients can do to improve their body acne. Since irritation can make the acne worse, patients should avoid irritating any areas where body acne breakouts are common. Tight clothing, for example, can contribute to body acne in some cases. If you always get acne on your shoulders, backpacks or purses may be the culprit. Some scented or harsh lotions, body washes, and perfumes may also aggravate acne. Avoiding these products in favor of gentle, dermatologist-tested products can’t hurt and may well help.

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