Acne, be it on your face or body, makes your skin rough and gives you pain. But more than causing discomfort, acne hits your psychology and can make you anxious regarding your appearance.
Indeed, acne can be stubborn and hard to tackle with, but there are effective remedies that can take the discomfort away. Here’s a list of home remedies that you can try at home to reduce or prevent body acne and get smoother, clearer skin.
1. Rosemary and Coconut Oil Rub
To treat acne on your back easily, mix 3-4 drops of rosemary essential oil with 2 tablespoon of coconut oil. Once the mixture is well combined, rub it on the acne spot and gently massage it with circular motions for a few minutes or until absorbed.
While your body soaks most of the oil, but if you find some residue at all, wipe it off gently with a clean cotton cloth or use sterile cotton balls.
2. Use Salt and Turmeric
Back acne often reffered to as 'Bacne' can be a very painful experience, so, it is wise to get rid of it as soon as possible. As turmeric contains antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, it calms the aching skin and slowly heals the acne.
On the other hand, salt draws out excess oil and dirt from the skin thereby stopping your pores from clogging. When combined together, these ingredients form a powerful mixture that gradually reduces acne.
Direction:
• In a large bucket of water, mix together one tablespoon of rock salt and one tablespoon of turmeric.
• Pour the mixture over your entire body.
• Alternatively, add the mixture to your bathwater and soak for 15 minutes.
3. Proper Hygiene
Not just for acne treatment but proper personal hygiene is a habit one should adopt for a better life. Good personal hygiene is a foundation for over all well being including your health. Staying clean promotes a fresh feeling each day and helps protect us from impurities.
From washing hands regularly to keeping your body and surroundings clean, personal hygiene reduces the risk of infections and contributes to a happier, more vibrant life.
4. Watch What You Eat
They say you are what you eat and if you think about it, it's true, right? A healthy diet can impact our bodies in good ways similarly an unhealthy diet can impact us negatively.
Studies show that people who consume food high on the glycemic index (GI), meaning they cause your blood sugar to rise quickly, may make acne worse. For instance, white breads, white pasta, white rice, and white potatoes may contribute to breakouts and acne.
5. Potato Juice And Rice Powder for Body Acne
With their comforting flavor and versatility, potatoes satisfy your cravings and provide valuable health benefits.
Potatoes have astringent properties that are known to cleanse pores and tighten skin, while rice water contains anti-inflammatory properties that soothe red, irritated skin.
Direction
• Combine 3 tablespoons of fresh potato juice with 2 tablespoons of rice powder until it forms a paste.
• Next, apply the mixture to affected areas and wash it off with lukewarm water as it dries.
6. Green Tea Water for Body Acne
If you are experiencing mild acne on your back, green tea wash might be the best solution for you. It is because green tea is a great natural remedy for body acne that soothes irritated skin and reduces inflammation.
It also helps to regulate excess oil production. With its regular use, you will start to notice a difference in your condition.
Direction:
• Take a large pot and boil 2-3 cups of water and steep 2-3 bags of green tea.
• Simmer it for at least 10 minutes and set aside to cool down completely.
• Now, using a cotton ball or a spray bottle, apply the water on the acne prone area.
• Allow your back to air dry. Rinse it with warm water if needed.
• For best results, repeat this process twice a week.
7. Honey And Milk for Body Acne
For centuries, honey has treated skin conditions because it contains many antioxidants that can help clear clogged pores. Likewise milk with its lactic acid gently exfoliates your skin to slough off those dead skin.
All you have to do is, mix three tablespoons each of honey and raw milk in a bowl and apply it on the affected area with a cotton ball. Let the mixture dry and then rinse it off with warm water.
8. Minimize Friction
Your workout habits or you leaning towards figure hugging clothing can irritate back acne. Because fitted clothes traps dirt and sweat which rubs against your back into your pores which makes it even worse.
Similarly, working out shirtless on sweaty gym equipment or dirty floors can also lead to breakouts. Thus, to stay away from this condition, opt for loose-fitting clothes that allows your skin to breathe and helps wick away sweat.
9. Use Tea Tree Oil for Body Acne
A native plant to Australia, tea tree oil has been a savior to Australians for centuries. This oil has been proven to treat a variety of hair and skin issues including acne and has a strong evidence to back up the claim.
Today, as the world has somehow become smaller, everyone can use this magical oil in the form of lotion, cleanser, and cream.
What Causes Body Acne?
While back acne or 'bacne' can be the result of some underlying health issue, it is also caused by the following elements-
Skin Care Products
Certain skincare products, especially those containing heavy oils or comedogenic ingredients, can clog pores and worsen acne. Some products may also irritate sensitive skin, causing inflammation.
Opting for non-comedogenic, fragrance-free products can reduce the likelihood of breakouts.
Drinking Whey Protein
Whey protein is derived from milk, which contains natural hormones that may further contribute to hormonal imbalances and acne flare-ups. This effect is often more noticeable in individuals sensitive to dairy products or experiencing hormonal fluctuations.
For your best interest, switching to plant based protein powder or reducing the frequency of whey intake might help to treat the breakouts.
Trapped Sweat
Trapped sweat, especially from tight or non-breathable clothing, can create a warm, moist environment that allows bacteria to thrive.
When sweat mixes with oils and bacteria on your skin, it can clog pores and lead to breakouts. Wearing loose, breathable clothing and showering after workouts can help reduce this risk.
Eating Sugary Food
Foods high in sugar can spike blood sugar levels, leading to a surge in insulin. Elevated insulin levels can increase oil production, which in turn clogs pores and promotes acne.
Reducing sugary foods and focusing on a balanced diet with low-glycemic options can help improve skin health.
Genetics
Genetics play a significant role in acne. If your family members have had a history of acne, you may be more prone to breakouts. Genetic factors can influence skin type, oil production, and how your skin responds to hormones and other triggers.
While you can’t change genetics, a consistent skincare routine can help manage acne.
Drug and Alcohol Consumption
Drugs and alcohol can interfere with hormonal balance, disrupt liver function, and increase inflammation—all of which can contribute to acne.
Alcohol, in particular, can dehydrate the skin and make it produce more oil to compensate. Reducing intake or avoiding these substances can support clearer skin.
Hormonal Imbalance
Hormonal imbalances, particularly involving androgens, can increase oil production and clog pores, leading to acne. This is common during puberty, menstrual cycles, and other hormonal shifts.
Managing hormonal acne may require targeted treatments, such as topical retinoids or hormone-regulating medications.
Types of Body Acne
Body acne can take different forms. Each type may require different treatments, such as topical cleansers or more intensive treatments for cystic acne.
Different types of body acne are-
1. Whiteheads and Blackheads: These are caused by clogged pores and are usually mild.
2. Papules and Pustules: These are red, inflamed pimples that can be very painful.
3. Nodules and Cysts: If you find deep, painful lumps under the skin, they cysts or nodules which are often formed due to severe acne.
Who Might Get Back Acne?
Anyone can get back acne—it can appear at any age and affect people of all genders. However, it's more common among teenagers and young adults, particularly those assigned male at birth (AMAB).