How To Reduce Body Acne?
Learn effective tips and treatments to reduce body acne. Discover skincare routines, lifestyle changes, and remedies to achieve clearer, smoother skin all over.
Written by Dr Sonia Bhatt
Last updated on 19th May, 2025
Introduction
Acne isn’t just limited to the face. It can appear on the back, chest, shoulders, and other parts of the body too. Body acne can be frustrating, uncomfortable, and sometimes painful. But the good news is that with the right care and lifestyle changes, you can manage and reduce breakouts effectively.
What is Body Acne?
Body acne occurs when hair follicles on the back, chest, shoulders, or other areas become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria. This leads to pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, or even painful cysts. While it’s common in teenagers due to hormonal changes, adults can also experience body acne.
Common Causes of Body Acne
Understanding what triggers body acne can help in managing it better. Some common causes include:
Excess Oil Production: Overactive oil glands can clog pores.
Sweat & Friction: Tight clothing, sweat, and friction from backpacks or gym equipment can irritate the skin.
Hormonal Changes: Puberty, menstrual cycles, or stress can increase breakouts.
Poor Hygiene: Not showering after sweating can trap bacteria and oil.
Diet: High sugar, dairy, or processed foods may worsen acne in some people.
Medications: Certain drugs (like steroids) can trigger acne.
Consult Top Dermatologist
How to Reduce Body Acne?
Some of the effective ways to reduce body acne are:
1. Keep Your Skin Clean
Shower immediately after sweating (post-workout or on hot days).
Use a gentle, fragrance-free body wash with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide to unclog pores.
Avoid harsh scrubs that can irritate the skin.
2. Wear Breathable Clothing
Choose loose, cotton fabrics that allow your skin to breathe.
Avoid tight synthetic fabrics that trap sweat and bacteria.
Change out of sweaty clothes as soon as possible.
3. Exfoliate Gently
Use a mild exfoliating scrub or a body brush 2-3 times a week to remove dead skin cells.
Over-exfoliating can worsen acne, so be gentle.
4. Moisturise Properly
Even acne-prone skin needs hydration. Use a non-comedogenic (oil-free) moisturiser.
Look for ingredients like niacinamide or hyaluronic acid to soothe the skin.
5. Avoid Touching or Picking
Picking acne can lead to scars and infections.
Keep your hands off affected areas to prevent spreading bacteria.
6. Watch Your Diet
Reduce sugary, greasy, and processed foods.
Drink plenty of water to flush out toxins.
Dairy may worsen acne, so try reducing milk or cheese if needed.
7. Use Over-the-Counter Treatments
Benzoyl peroxide (2.5% - 5%): Kills bacteria and reduces inflammation.
Salicylic acid: Helps unclog pores and exfoliate dead skin.
Retinoids (adapalene gel): Promotes skin cell turnover.
8. Manage Stress
Stress increases cortisol, which can trigger acne.
Practise relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing.
9. See a Dermatologist if Needed
If body acne is severe, painful, or doesn’t improve with home care, consult a dermatologist. They may prescribe:
Oral antibiotics (for bacterial acne).
Hormonal treatments (for women with hormonal acne).
Stronger topical treatments (like prescription retinoids).
When to Seek Medical Help?
If you notice:
Large, painful cysts that don’t heal.
Acne is spreading rapidly.
Dark spots or scarring after breakouts.
No improvement after 6-8 weeks of home treatment.
A dermatologist can help with personalised treatment plans.
Conclusion
Body acne can be frustrating, but with the right approach, it’s treatable and preventable. From adopting a consistent skincare routine to making simple lifestyle changes like wearing breathable clothing and showering after sweating, small steps can make a big difference. Over-the-counter treatments and natural remedies can also help keep breakouts under control. If acne continues despite your efforts, consider seeing a dermatologist for personalised care. With patience and the right strategy, clearer, healthier skin is absolutely achievable.
Consult Top Dermatologist
Consult Top Dermatologist
Dr. Hemalatha Naidu M
Dermatologist
5 Years • MBBS, MD (Dermatology)
Bangalore
Apollo 24|7 Virtual Clinic - Karnataka, Bangalore
(225+ Patients)
Dr. K Chetana
Dermatologist
10 Years • MBBS, MD ( Dermatology)
Hyderabad
Apollo 24|7 Virtual Clinic - Telangana, Hyderabad
Dr Ritika Shanmugam
Dermatologist
9 Years • MBBS, MD (Dermatology, venereology, Leprosy)
Bangalore
Apollo 24|7 Virtual Clinic - Karnataka, Bangalore
Dr. Kavitha Killaparthy
Dermatologist
23 Years • MBBS,DIPLOMA(DERMATOLOGY,VENEREOLOGY,LEPROSY)
Hyderabad
JDS Skin & Hair Clinic, Hyderabad
Dr. Indraneel Saha
Dermatologist
10 Years • MBBS, MD (WBUHS)
Kolkata
Dr Utsa Basu Clinic, Kolkata
Consult Top Dermatologist
Dr. Hemalatha Naidu M
Dermatologist
5 Years • MBBS, MD (Dermatology)
Bangalore
Apollo 24|7 Virtual Clinic - Karnataka, Bangalore
(225+ Patients)
Dr. K Chetana
Dermatologist
10 Years • MBBS, MD ( Dermatology)
Hyderabad
Apollo 24|7 Virtual Clinic - Telangana, Hyderabad
Dr Ritika Shanmugam
Dermatologist
9 Years • MBBS, MD (Dermatology, venereology, Leprosy)
Bangalore
Apollo 24|7 Virtual Clinic - Karnataka, Bangalore
Dr. Kavitha Killaparthy
Dermatologist
23 Years • MBBS,DIPLOMA(DERMATOLOGY,VENEREOLOGY,LEPROSY)
Hyderabad
JDS Skin & Hair Clinic, Hyderabad
Dr. Indraneel Saha
Dermatologist
10 Years • MBBS, MD (WBUHS)
Kolkata
Dr Utsa Basu Clinic, Kolkata
