“Bacne” vs. the Swimsuit

Summer is just around the corner and we need to clear up a few things about bacne.  We’ve been so focused on our faces this winter and spring that we neglected our backs and now they are speaking out by breaking out.

The Skintourage is here to give you a few pointers on getting rid of and keeping away that unwanted “BACNE”.

Cleanse:  You will want a frangrance-free and anti-bacterial cleanser.  Many people over-cleanse the skin with harsh soaps and use vigorous scrubbing tools and products. The use of Alkaline-based surfactants or soaps not only rob skin of moisture, but also provide a bacteria-loving environment. This can also exacerbate the breakouts and slow down the healing process.

Tone: Spritz your back with an oil- and bacteria-controlling toner. Many bacne sufferers will try mentholated and alcohol astringents, which provide a cooling sensation, however in most cases these are SD alcohol-based, which strips the skin of lipids, causing the skin to over-produce oil. Look for alcohol-free toners in “smart trigger” packaging that allow for easy spritzing over your back.

Exfoliate gently: Many people use loofahs and brushes to try and rid the skin of back acne, which only worsens the condition. The use of such tools causes micro-lacerations in the skin, making it once again a hospitable environment for bacteria to breed and grow. A gentle fragrance-free scrub should be used instead. Lightly massage it over the area and rinse off.

Don’t squeeze and pick: Seek out the help of a licensed esthetician for  a back treatment to clear impactions, gently exfoliate and moisturize appropriately.

And here are a few sneaky ways to prevent bacne in the first place:
1. Avoid waxy hair products that may come into contact with the skin on your back.
2. Wear cotton clothing versus synthetic fibers, which can trap oil and dead cells.
3. Pillowcases should be changed at least every other day and sheets twice a week. Avoid using fabric softeners on bed linens as they may cause a breakout.
4. Avoid tanning beds. Many believe that this will speed up the healing of breakouts; however, the effects are only temporary. UV exposure increases cell production, causing more breakouts.