Suffering from bacne? You’re definitely not alone. Ahead, we share 9 handy tips to clear up pesky body acne so you can rock ’em backless tops with confidence! 

What causes bacne?

According to dermatologists, acne is formed when pores or hair follicles are clogged with excess oil, dead skin cells and dirt build up. And because the pores on our back are larger, they tend to clog up easier than facial pores and might be more difficult to treat. 

#1 Do your laundry

Thanks to the heat and humidity that comes with Singapore’s weather, constant perspiration is a norm — even at night. Whether it’s staying away from that top that “still smells clean what” or washing those new-ish bedsheets you’ve been rolling around on, it’s important to ensure that your skin isn’t exposed to old sweat and dead skin cells that are just lurking in the thread count waiting to clog up your pores. And if you have sensitive skin, be sure to use fragrance-free detergent to minimise the risk of skin irritation. 

#2 Hit the showers 

Heading straight to bed without taking a bath first sounds gross but is more common than you think (where’re all our lazy people at!), and the same goes for skipping the showers after gym to bathe in the comforts of your own home. According to skin experts, body acne can be exacerbated by increased perspiration and working out. With that being said, ditch that bad habit and make sure you get squeaky clean ASAP to prevent sweat irritation and clogged pores. 

#3 Wear loose gear 

You may not have realised it, but those figure-hugging outfits may have been causing (or worsening) your acne outbreaks. Opt for looser threads that’ll minimise friction and allow your skin to breathe. Light materials like cotton is ideal as it allows airflow to dry out any dampness awhile absorbing moisture. In contrast, steer clear from water-resistant fabrics like polyester, as it’ll trap heat without absorbing your sweat – leading to (you guessed it) irritation and clogged pores. 

#4 Minimise your sun exposure 

Try: Neutrogena Beach Defense SPF 70/PA++++, $28.90

While soaking up vitamin D is always great, be careful not to expose yourself too much lest you cause your skin to dry out and start flaking. Dead skin cells can clog pores remember? Also, when choosing sunscreen, opt for lightweight, waterproof oil-free formulas that’ll provide ample coverage and allow your skin to breathe at the same time. While you’re at it, swap out any heavy body lotions for ones with similar properties as the aforementioned sunscreen. 

#5 Scrub a dub dub 

Try: FRESH Brown Sugar Body Polish, $65

The best thing you can do to slough off dead skin cells and remove dirt build up on your body? Exfoliate. Regular exfoliation serves to clean up your back and torso (which has more sebaceous glands) while refreshing and renewing skin. While using a gentle body scrub will do the trick, reaching for a good ol’ loofah or body brush would do the job just as well. Use a moderate amount of strength while scrubbing your skin free of bacteria and dirt, don’t overdo it and end up injuring your skin! 

#6 Get back!

Much like how your hair might be causing facial blemishes, it could also be the culprit of your body acne. Having long hair that drapes down your back may be adding on dirt and grease onto your skin. Stick to regular hair washes and up-dos and see if your bacne improves.

Similarly, your conditioner and shampoo (which have ingredients that may cause clogged pores) running down your back while you shower may also be another contributing factor. Save the soaping up for last (after you’re done conditioning your hair) and make sure your skin’s cleansed thoroughly. 

#7 Stop ‘dem itchy fingers 

It’s perfectly normal to feel the urge to pick at your pimples, on your face or otherwise. But that doesn’t mean you should. Trying to burst your blemishes will injure the skin, leading to a longer healing time and the higher possibility of scarring. Plus, you may even transfer more bacteria from your digits onto your skin, thus worsening your bacne. Keep your hands to yourself! 

#8 Use medicated products 

Try: The Body Shop Tea Tree Skin Clearing Body Wash

Like facial acne, there are specially formulated products to treat body acne. Using medicated body washes that contain blemish-busting, anti-bacterial ingredients like tea tree  and salicylic acid will go a long way to getting your sexy back. At the very least, stick to a pH balancing body wash that’s safe for sensitive skin should be good enough to keep bacne at bay. 

#9 You are what you eat 

Similar to how eating junk food, being stressed and having irregular sleep can cause breakouts, these factors might be why you’re having bacne trouble. Eat healthy, drink loads of water, get ample rest and exercise — you’ll see a difference in your skin condition (and overall health) in no time! 

What are your tips to conquering bacne? Share ’em with us in the comment section!

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