How can I treat back acne?

How can I treat back acne?

You can treat mild back acne at home. You should:

• Avoid popping or squeezing the pimples: You can damage your skin by popping zits. Squeezing or popping them can also lead to acne scars, which can be severe. Picking at a zit can also lead to an infected pimple.
• Keep your skin clean: Use an oil-free body wash that’s “noncomedogenic,” which means it won’t clog your pores. Shower and change into clean clothes after exercise. Resist the urge to scrub your skin with harsh cleansers. Scrubbing can make acne worse.
• Try topical creams, gels and cleansers: Benzoyl peroxide products can clear up back acne. When using a benzoyl peroxide cleanser, allow the medicine to stay on the pimples for up to five minutes before rinsing it off. You may also try a retinoid gel or an acne sticker that releases salicylic acid medication into the zit over several hours.
• Use clean linens: It’s important to use clean towels, sheets and pillowcases so bacteria don’t build up. Try to wash your sheets and towels at least once a week.

If back acne lingers or keeps coming back, see your dermatologist. They may recommend other prescription skin care products to treat severe acne. Or you may need antibiotics or other oral medications.