GUIDE: How to alleviate and prevent back acne

Kako ublažiti i spriječiti akne na leđima

Unfortunately, acne in adolescence and adulthood is not "reserved" only for the face. This phenomenon actually occurs quite often in the body area, especially the back, which brings not only physical but also psychological discomfort. The discomfort it brings can be alleviated and prevented, but a comprehensive approach is always needed, which primarily means changing habits.

Acne is a kind of disorder of normal skin function related to the internal state of the organism. Their appearance can actually be seen as a kind of indicator of the presence of a certain imbalance. They arise as a response to a complex process of several factors in our body - from the very natural presence of the bacterium Cutibacterium acnes, to the increased secretion of fat (sebum) due to hormonal imbalance to the impaired function of the skin to get rid of dead cells and other factors that mostly concern lifestyle.

Under the influence of an increase in androgenic (so-called male) hormones, the glands present in the skin begin to secrete sebum more, and at the same time dead skin cells are not easily released from the surface, but accumulate, pile up and fill the space of the follicular channel. With the bacterium Cutibacterium acnes ( formerly P. acnes) , which now has an ideal "hidden" place for reproduction, and "catalysts" such as fast food, potentially comedogenic cosmetics, stress and genetic predisposition, an inflammatory process occurs that results in acne. Moreover, science has shown that the sebum in people affected by acne has a different composition and a thicker, more viscous texture, which in itself clogs the follicles even more and makes them an ideal fertile, anaerobic soil for the development of inflammation.

Customize cosmetics and introduce targeted products

Like the skin of the face, the skin of the body needs regular and thorough care. First of all, it is a regular shower, especially in moments of increased physical activity, sweating and in general during the summer when the temperatures are high. It is recommended to use gentle, non-drying shower gels without stronger surfactants (SLS, SLES) and added fragrances and colors, as they can potentially (and cumulatively) be triggers for additional irritation. Although it is still a habit for many people, ordinary soap is not a good choice because of its pH, which is not related to the skin - it will dry it out, and at the same time damage the health of the hydrolipidic barrier, which in turn leads to a possible stronger secretion of sebum. In addition, pay attention to the process of washing your hair. Peri is in an inclined position that will prevent the occlusive textures of masks and conditioners from ending up on the back.

Most acne (with the exception of more severe forms that need to be treated with oral therapy) can be treated locally. In addition to benzoyl peroxide, retinoids and other active substances, AHA or BHA acids will also help by soothing inflammation. Light chemical peeling two to three times a week will clean the pores and the skin, freeing accumulated dead skin cells, and thus "stopping" the process of acne formation. Salicylic acid, or BHA acid, is an excellent choice in this case, since it has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, can be used in the summer (with mandatory SPF), and will gradually reduce the visibility of treatment spots. It is important to choose a gentler scrub such as Microexfoliant , which will not be too abrasive, and after exfoliation, hydrate and nourish the skin with texturally gentle and light skin care products. 

If necessary, introduce double cleaning

With acne on the body (back, legs, but also chest), especially during the season of sunbathing and the use of sun protection products that can sometimes result in clogging of pores on reactive skin, it is good to pay attention to quality cleansing. In this, for example, the routine that is normally applied to the skin of the face can help . Gentle removal of larger impurities with a micellar solution, and then washing the skin with a gentle gel will not dry out the skin, will not damage its natural pH, and will prevent the appearance of new irregularities.

Be careful with the sun (and high temperatures)

It is not rare that irregularities are tried to be covered up by increased sun exposure in the summer. Sometimes there is a temporary improvement, but very often there is a deterioration that can result in spots, uneven complexion, new inflammations, even scars. That is why it is important to consistently lubricate the skin with preparations for complete UVA and UVB protection , especially while using topical medicines or preparations with acids. While high temperatures reign, it is definitely necessary to watch out for the appearance of the so-called mechanical acne ( Acne mechanica ), which can occur in combination with friction. Avoiding carrying heavy backpacks, thick synthetic materials and tight clothing is one of the items that will help in prevention, just like regularly washing towels and sheets without added fabric softener.

He bases his diet on vegetables and fruits

Although a few cubes of (dark) chocolate will not lead to acne on the back, today it is clear that diet greatly affects the condition of the skin. Dairy products (mainly milk and cheese) and fast food full of sugar, simple carbohydrates and trans-fats are associated with acne because they simply create an "atmosphere" suitable for their development . An unhealthy diet can result in long-term consequences in the form of redness, faster and stronger greasing (secretion of sebum) and the difficulty of the process of natural exfoliation of dead skin cells. Focusing on healthy, whole and maximally unprocessed foods is therefore a good idea to include in your daily routine during acne treatment, as well as in the long term.

Seek help from doctors and specialists

If the appearance of acne does not subside, and inflammation continues to occur regardless of topical therapies and other precautions, it is not out of place to seek medical help. Today, acne is usually the result of stress and hormonal changes in the body that need to be balanced for the well-being of the whole organism, and then the skin as our largest organ . In addition, digging and squeezing should be avoided in any form, and any mechanical cleaning should be left to the hands of experienced dermatological experts who will know how to remedy the condition and prevent deterioration.

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