Back Pimples: Causes and How to Manage

What causes back pimples?

The major player in breakouts is the production from an oily substance called sebum. The oil-producing sebaceous glands, found in the hair follicles, can be triggered by a number of factors. When the oil glands produce too much sebum, it can clog pores that then leads to pimples.

Blocked pores

Skin pores can get blocked by an accumulation of sebum, dead skin cells and irritants from the environment. Blocked pores can irritate the skin and expose it to impurities that causes breakouts. Poor hygiene (not using a cleanser or regularly washing your back) can increase the risk of clogged pores.

Hormones

Hormonal fluctuations during puberty, pregnancy, menstruation and menopause can trigger the sebaceous glands to increase oil production that then ends up on the skin’s surface. While these hormonal shifts are unavoidable, you can utilise skincare and lifestyle habits to keep sebum production balanced.

Sweaty skin

In addition to sebum production, excess sweat is a major culprit to clogged pores. You might notice breakouts occurring more often in the hotter months or if you're a regular at the gym.

Sports equipment

On the note of going to the gym, sports gear, especially shared equipment at the gym, can harbour an accumulation of sweat and irritants that can clog pores on your back. This is why it’s so important to regularly wash sports equipment and sanitise any gym equipment before using.

Wearing tight clothing

Restrictive garments and certain fabrics can trap sweat on your back and cause friction against the skin. Both of these factors can lead to skin irritation that can manifest as red bumps on the skin. This is especially true when it comes to your choice in activewear when you’re likely to produce far more sweat.

Genes

Regular breakouts on the back can also come from your genes. If you've a family history of back pimples, there's a higher chance you’ll also have them. This is where your skincare routine can play an important role in managing these inevitable breakouts.

Hair products

If you have long hair that reaches past your shoulders it's likely that any hair products you use will transfer to your skin. If these hair products contain heavy oils or pore-clogging ingredients it can lead to breakouts.

Stress

Your stress levels can also play a major role in breakouts. High levels of cortisol (the stress hormone) can trigger an increased production of sebum, which increases the risk of clogged pores and pesky pimples.

Pore-clogging skincare products

Comedogenic (pore-clogging) products, like certain cleansers, creams and sunscreens, can contribute to breakouts on the back, especially when combined with a buildup of sweat.

How to manage back pimples

While some cases may require medical treatment, certain lifestyle changes and skincare choices are effective in helping you get rid of back pimples.

Wear breathable fabrics

Wear loose-fitting clothing (especially during the summer months, and especially when it comes to workout clothes) to allow the skin to breathe. You should also opt for natural fibres like cotton and linen are best for blemish-prone skin. Loose clothing and quality fabrics ensure air circulation and prevents friction or sweat buildup.

Shower after exercise

Make sure to shower immediately after any intensive exercise to prevent sweat clogging your pores. Cleanse the skin with a gentle body wash to clear away dead skin cells and environmental aggressors.

Clean sports equipment

Whether you go to a gym or have at-home equipment, always wipe down sports equipment. Use an oil-free cleansing wipe or wipe down with a towel to prevent impurities from coming into contact with your back.

Exfoliate your body

Clear out dead skin cells and unclog pores with regular exfoliation. The skin on your body tends to be thicker than your facial skin, so physical exfoliants like scrubs or exfoliating gloves can be incorporated into skincare for most skin types. You can exfoliate 1-3 times a week. For very sensitive, allergy-prone skin, a gentle body cleanser is still vital to clearing away impurities and dead skin cells.

Don’t pick at or pop your back pimples

Picking at or popping back pimples can compromise skin tissue, leading to dark spots or marks that are hard to get rid of. It can also worsen the problem by spreading the irritants to the surrounding skin. As tempting as it is, never pop your back pimples!

Choose the right sunscreen

Some sunscreens can contribute to clogged pores that increase breakouts, but skipping sunscreen exposes your skin to UV rays that can compromise the moisture barrier and exacerbate skin concerns. Make sure you use high SPF, lightweight, non-comedogenic sunscreen to all exposed skin when outdoors.

Ingredients that can address back blemishes

In addition to cleansing and moisturiser, some skincare products for acne-pone skin contain ingredients can be used on your back to address persistent breakouts. These are often used for facial skin, but can be applied to the back.

· Benzoyl peroxide: Benzoyl peroxide helps with fighting impurities and irritants that can cause breakouts, while helping to unclog pores.

· Salicylic acid: Salicylic acid exfoliates the skin, removing dead skin cells that contribute to clogged pores.

· AHAs (glycolic acid, citric acid): AHAs can provide gentler exfoliation to remove impurities, dead skin cells and excess oil on the surface layers of skin.

· Retinoids: In cases of more persistent back pimples, retinoids derived from vitamin A can regulate skin cell turnover for smoother, clearer skin.

Speak to a dermatologist

If you find your back pimples are persistent, even after making changes to your skincare, it's a good idea to speak to a dermatologist. They will be able to identify the cause of your breakouts and recommend tailored skincare and treatment options to manage your skin concerns.