We all suffer from the odd pimple from time to time, but persistent breakouts may point to something more serious.
What causes body acne?
Body acne typically occurs on the back and chest because, like the face, these areas contain more sebum (skin oil) than other parts of the body.
Body acne develops in the same way as facial acne and causes are thought to include hormones, stress and simple genetics. The treatment of body acne is similar to facial acne and it’s best to consult a skin expert for a full consultation and treatment plan.
How do you treat body acne?
Dr Catherine Stone, founder of Auckland’s The Face Place clinic, says adult acne is often slightly different to teenage acne and comes with unique treatment challenges.
“First, adult acne does not seem to be as responsive to benzoyl peroxide-containing creams such as Clearasil and Proactiv as teenage acne.
“Second, Roaccutane, Isotane and oral vitamin A medications are not recommended for women of child-bearing age, unless they’re taking full contraceptive precautions, as these medications are teratogenic and can have devastating effects on the unborn child.”
Stone says creams and antibiotics can work in about 30-50 per cent of cases, and she usually recommends using vitamin A creams to stabilise the skin, along with vitamin C as an antioxidant.
“Regular salicylic, glycolic and vitamin A peels can decongest blocked pores, reduce blackheads and improve skin tone and texture, and can sometimes help with mild acne scarring,” she says. “An experienced medical skin therapist will examine your skin and tailor a programme of treatments based on your skin type and condition.”
Another effective treatment is Omnilux LED therapy, which uses a specific wavelength of blue light to help your body destroy acne-causing bacteria.
“A course of either eight blue light treatments or eight treatments alternating blue and red light is recommended, with 20-minute treatments twice a week. The blue light helps to reduce the acne bacteria, and the red light helps to reduce inflammation,” says Stone.
Simple daily measures to help prevent body acne include keeping your hair off your back, as oil from your locks can further exacerbate the problem, and wearing loose-fitting organic cotton clothing when possible to avoid skin irritation.
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