How to Treat Back Acne
Back acne (sometimes referred to as “bacne”) can occur at any time, in both men and women. Back acne is sometimes difficult to treat; it is tricky to apply creams and lotions to your back without a helping hand, so back acne often goes untreated. Dr. Schweiger notes that, “There is no reason to tolerate back acne, especially with the winter travel season approaching. Topical creams can sometimes be difficult to apply to the back, so it is important to discuss other options with your dermatologist. In-office treatments, such as Photodynamic Therapy and Isolaz therapy, can be very helpful and effective for the treatment of back acne. Additionally, there are some prescription treatments that are specially formulated to address back acne in a convenient fashion.”
How to treat back acne:
- In-office laser acne treatments are very effective for treating acne on the body. Treatments like PDT (Photodynamic Therapy) and Isolaz therapy kill acne-causing p. acnes bacteria, decrease sebaceous gland activity, clean out the pores, and reduce inflammation.
- Some topical prescription medications, like Clindareach, are intended for use on the back. Clindareach is a topical clindamycin formulation (a topical antibiotic) that comes with a long applicator for applying the medication to hard-to-reach areas.
- Oral medications, such as oral antibiotics, are often useful when treating acne on the back. There is no need to worry about applying a topical cream to that hard-to-reach spot on the middle of the back.
- Anti-acne washes and sprays are a simple way to deliver acne medication directly to the skin, without worrying about reaching the entire surface of your back.
