The development of acne is triggered by the activation of the sebaceous glands, leading to the formation of comedones (blackheads and whiteheads) that can become inflamed and infected with bacteria.
Some individuals may develop chest and back acne due to stress, sweating, and friction that irritate the skin. Medications containing testosterone or corticosteroids can also trigger acne breakouts. It is not clear whether dietary changes can improve the prevalence of acne, but a healthy diet low in sugar may be beneficial.
For everyone, but especially for those with darker skin, acne can cause brown spots on the skin (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation). Using sunscreen during the summer can help improve this condition.
After sweating and exercising, it is important to wash the skin to remove sweat from the body. Use a pH-neutral soap to cleanse the body.
Avoid wearing tight clothes that may put pressure on the skin.
Opt for loose-fitting garments to prevent skin irritation and acne breakouts.
There are skincare products available at pharmacies that can help, often containing ingredients with mild exfoliating properties such as salicylic acid.
Make sure to choose a product that is "non-comedogenic" to avoid worsening the acne. An effective product is Basiron Wash, an over-the-counter shower gel. This should be used during showering and not left on the skin for too long. Basiron can be used daily or a few times a week. Please note that Basiron contains benzoyl peroxide, a bleaching agent that may cause light spots on fabric and towels.
If the above mentioned advices are not sufficient to eliminate the acne, it may be necessary to seek help from a dermatologist for additional measures and treatment options.
A dermatologist may prescribe creams or oral medications to address the problem.
In most cases, a dermatologist will initially attempt to treat acne with creams containing active ingredients. These creams need to be applied to the entire affected area every day or every other day for several weeks before improvement can be observed.
For individuals who develop scarring from back acne or have been struggling for an extended period without success from other treatments, oral medications are often the best option. Antibiotics or oral contraceptives (birth control pills) should be combined with topical treatment. A long-term acne treatment with isotretinoin is the most effective approach. This is a strong and potent treatment that requires regular blood tests and frequent follow-ups with a healthcare professional.
