How to Get Rid of Body Acne

What Causes
Body Acne?

New York-based dermatologist Dhaval Bhanusali, M.D. says that just like the pimples on your face, bacne and other acne on your body is often caused by a combination of bacteria, sweat, oil and clogged pores. But it's important to remember that body acne is not the result of poor hygiene. And sometimes, you can do everything right and still have an angry zit pop up.

Genetics play a role, too. If you tend to have oilier skin on your face (especially during the summer), you will likely have more oil production on places like your chest and back. Other factors, like hormones, can play a role too. But during summer, when we're more active outdoors, sweat can be a real factor. And the doc says that the longer sweat sticks around on your skin, the more chance you have for bacterial overgrowth. That's why it's so common to get pimples in places where you have skin pressed against sweaty clothing—be it from a chair or backpack.

Start in
the Shower

Dermatologists often tout benzoyl peroxide as their top suggestion for clearing bodily acne, since its so effective at killing the bacteria that cause you to break out. A body wash or soap formulated with 5-10% benzoyl peroxide will help clear existing pimples and prevent new breakouts from forming.

But if those aren't working, Dr. Deborah Elder, a board-certified dermatologist in Charlottesville, Virginia, has another over-the-counter remedy. She says that some bacne isn't acne in the traditional sense. It's actually pityrosporum folliculitis—an overgrowth of a yeast normally found on our skin. Using zinc-infused antifungal shampoos or body washes can be really effective. She suggests using it daily for 10 days, then weekly for maintenance, to keep your skin clear.

Gentle
Exfoliation Helps

You don't want to give bacteria any place to hide. The doctors say that shedding dead skin is a surefire way to keep skin healthy and blemish-free. You can do this both physically (with an exfoliating body brush or cloth) and chemically (with a retinoid cream). Apply the cream all over the problem area, not just as a spot treatment, to prevent future breakouts.

Treat Individually
When Necessary

Typically, you want to treat body acne overall—using products that can easily cover a large area. But, if you have just a few zits that have suddenly popped up—or one that's especially inflamed—you can use the same spot treatments that you might use on your face. The doctors recommend salicylic acid (ideal for both clearing away blockages and controlling oil) and hydrocolloid patches to pull out the gunk and help them heal faster.