Back acne, often called “bacne,” is just acne that happens on your back. It can show up as spots, blackheads, whiteheads, or even larger, painful lumps. While it’s not harmful, it can be uncomfortable and knock your confidence, especially when it’s visible in certain clothes. At Omniya Clinic, we understand how frustrating bacne can be, and we’re here to help you get smoother, healthier skin so you can feel your best.
Back acne happens when your pores get clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria. A range of things can trigger or make it worse, including your hormones, exercise habits, or even the fabrics you wear. Let’s break it down.
Your back is packed with sebaceous (oil) glands and hair follicles. When you sweat, especially during workouts, oil and dirt can build up in these follicles, leading to clogged pores and spots. Tight clothes or synthetic fabrics make it worse by trapping moisture against your skin.
What Helps:
Wear loose, breathable fabrics like cotton and make sure to shower after sweating. If you’re on the go, cleansing wipes can be a handy quick fix until you can rinse off properly.
Sebum, your skin’s natural oil, keeps your skin lubricated, but too much of it can clog pores and cause breakouts. Hormonal changes (like during your period or pregnancy), stress, or even certain medications can ramp up oil production.
What Helps:
Wash your back daily with a cleanser that contains salicylic acid, which helps control oil and unclog pores. Pair it with a lightweight, non-greasy moisturiser to prevent your skin from overcompensating by producing even more oil.
Your skin naturally has bacteria on it, but when your pores are clogged, these bacteria multiply and can cause redness, swelling, and painful breakouts.
What Helps:
Use an antibacterial body wash and avoid scrubbing your back too hard, as this can irritate your skin. A soft washcloth or your hands are usually enough to cleanse your back effectively.
Clearing back acne isn’t just about skincare—it’s also about making small lifestyle changes.
Sometimes, lifestyle changes aren’t enough. Adding targeted treatments can make a big difference:
For stubborn bacne, HydraBack at Omniya Clinic is a professional treatment designed for deep cleaning, exfoliation, and hydration. It’s based on the popular HydraFacial but customised for the back.
HydraBack not only treats active acne but also prevents future breakouts and improves the look of scars for smoother, healthier skin.
Scars from back acne can stick around, but there are ways to reduce them.
At-home options like retinoids or vitamin C serums can also help brighten your skin and reduce the appearance of scars.
Start with regular cleansing, wearing loose clothing, and exfoliating gently. Professional treatments like HydraBack can also help.
Back acne happens when oil, dead skin, and bacteria clog your pores. Sweat, hormones, and certain fabrics can make it worse.
Try professional treatments like HydraBack, chemical peels, microneedling, or laser therapy. At-home options like vitamin C can also help.
Daily cleansing, non-comedogenic products, and professional treatments like HydraBack are your best bet for faster results.
During your consultation, we will advise you on the best treatments and products to use at home.
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If you are an existing patient, we kindly request that you email your request through to hello@omniya.co.uk rather than filling out the contact form.
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