What is back acne?

What is back acne?

Back acne (or “bacne”) is acne that develops on your back. It causes pimples that appear as red bumps, whiteheads or blackheads. These zits can be unsightly, annoying and painful.

Acne happens when oil, dirt, dead skin cells and bacteria clog your skin’s pores. Back acne usually results when sweat gets trapped under a shirt or athletic gear during exercise or strenuous activity. Clothing rubs against your sweaty skin, which leads to zits or makes them worse.

Several over-the-counter and prescription treatments can clear up back acne. But it may take a few months for skin to clear.