Back Acne Causes

Excessive oil (sebum) produced by the sebaceous glands, get accumulated under the skin due to clogged skin pores (follicles) and creates a good environment for bacterial growth. This leads to development of acne. There are various types of acne such as non-inflammatory acne like whitehead and blackhead or inflammatory acne like papule, pustule, nodules, cysts or milia. Both teenagers and adults can have acne as acne is not restricted to age. Acne can develop on any part of the body but facial acne causes more distress.

Acne Facts

Trapped sebaceous fluid is the main cause of acne and therefore the areas which contain more sebaceous glands are more susceptible to acne. For instance, there are about 2,000 sebaceous glands per square inch on the forehead. Highest density of sebaceous glands is observed in the face, chest, shoulders, and back. Studies show that more than 75% people with facial acne have acne on other parts of the body. Men are more affected by back acne than women because they have more male hormones like androgens which stimulate acne formation. Do not pick, squeeze or rub the acne, as it may worsen the situation. This can lead to permanent scarring also. There are innumerable acne skin care products available in the market, but natural acne cures work great for acne. Dietary alterations and lifestyle changes do help in acne control.

Back Acne Causes in Men

Bacteria: The most common reason behind back acne in men is development of bacteria, for example propionibacterium. Bacteria in the skin can cause rashes, inflammation and redness of the skin. The enzymes released by the bacteria in the skin can change the oil secreted by the sebaceous glands into an irritating substance and cause acne.

Hormonal Changes: It is necessary to know that hormonal imbalance is one of the main causes of acne. Increased hormonal activity of androgens during puberty or excessive stress due to fast life, emotional stress can cause overexertion of the adrenal gland. This results in hormone imbalance and acne.

External Factors: Exposure to chemical compounds in polluted air and water can cause acne. For example, contact with dioxins can result in chloracne in men. Some medications can also cause acne. Check and be sure that your routine medicines are not causing acne. Exposure to halogens is one of the common causes of acne. Excessive use of steroids, wrong diet, keeping awake till late hours, genetic factors, neglecting facial acne and dandruff, and the accumulation of dead skin can cause acne on back.

Back Acne Causes in Women

Bacteria: As explained above, clogged skin pores and growth of bacteria is the main cause of back acne in women as well.

Hormone Imbalance: As compared to men, a woman's body undergoes several stressful phases such as puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, breastfeeding, menopause, etc. Since hormone imbalance and acne are interconnected, women usually experience a sudden eruption of acne before their menstrual period. This happens due to increased level of androgens, the steroid hormones. Studies show that women with a lot of body hair or facial hair, and women who have irregular periods, are more likely to suffer from facial and back acne. Stress has become an invariable factor of modern life. Women should try to lead a stress free life as far as possible. They should have their hormone levels checked and assessed by a physician.

External Factors: Excessive medication, history of acne, exposure to chemicals, wrong diet are some of the causes of pimples on back. Harmful chemicals in cosmetics often affect women's skin and women have to face skin problems like acne. They need to choose cosmetics like a sunscreen lotion or a body wash carefully. Choosing water-based cosmetics instead of oil-based cosmetics can help get rid of acne. Most women wear tight fitting clothes which also can lead to development of acne. Food allergies, especially allergy for milk and cheese can cause back acne in both men and women.

The most effective back acne treatment is to maintain proper hygiene, follow a healthy diet, drink plenty of water, avoid stress, harmful chemicals, allergens, excessive medication, oil based cosmetics, etc. These can help a lot in acne prevention. Regular exercise improves blood circulation which in turn enhances the process of throwing away of body toxins. If these natural acne treatments don't work for you, make sure to consult a dermatologist.