Bacne (also known as truncal acne) is the term used to describe back acne, an incredibly common skin condition that is not spoken about nearly enough. It is so common that it affects between 70% and 85% of people globally, and according to the NHS, about half of the people in the UK who have acne also get it on their backs.
In 2021, it was documented that about 15% of adolescents and young people in the UK were diagnosed with acne (whether on the face, back, chest, shoulders, or buttocks), which was among the highest rates in the world!
Meaning, if you have bacne, you are most certainly not alone. However, we fully understand the frustration that comes with bacne. Not to mention, if your back acne is severe or left untreated, it can result in permanent scarring.
Join us as we look at common causes of back acne, as well as how you can treat and even help prevent it.
Bacne Breakdown
Bacne is acne that develops on your back. It can be in the form of pink or red bumps, whiteheads, blackheads, comedones, or even pus-filled cysts. Sometimes, it can be painful, and other times, it is just a mere nuisance.
But why does acne even appear on your back? The answer is simple. It is because your back has a high density of sebaceous glands. These glands produce sebum which is an oily substance that forms a protective coating on your skin.
Similar to acne that appears on your face, chest, shoulders, and other areas of your body, your sebaceous glands are attached to hair follicles or pores. When sebum (oil) or dead skin cells build up, they can clog your pores, leading to inflammation and, thus, the formation of acne.
However, the reasons why oil and dead skin lead to blocked pores in the first place, are multiple.
Common Causes Of Back Acne
Bacne can result from hormonal changes (or imbalances), certain medications, stress, sweat, oily skin, and specific hair products that trigger an overproduction of sebum.
Foods high on the glycemic index, those containing dairy, or certain carbohydrates may also contribute to back acne.
Using sunscreen not formulated for acne-prone skin can lead to back pimples, too as its oily composition may actually clog your pores.
Popular Treatments To Combat Bacne
It is vital you consult a skincare specialist to discuss the severity of your back acne and find the most appropriate solution. Whether it be over-the-counter medicine, prescription medication like antibiotics, oral contraceptives for more stubborn acne, or regular aesthetic treatments.
However, one thing is certain, as bacne is predominantly caused by blocked pores, keeping your pores clear of impurities goes a long way in treating the condition.
At House Of Saab, we offer a specialised bacne treatment designed to address acne and congestion on the back. Think of it as a facial but for your back. This advanced and highly sought-after treatment involves a thorough cleansing process, exfoliation to remove dead skin cells, and gentle extraction to clear clogged pores.
It helps reduce inflammation, control oil production, and minimise the appearance of acne lesions and your pores may appear smaller, contributing to a smoother overall look. Of course, each individual is unique and their skin condition differs, but in general, we recommend between 4 to 6 sessions for best outcomes. We often schedule these sessions 4 weeks apart.
How To Prevent Bacne
To help aid your fight in preventing acne on your back, it is important to keep your back clean from oils, sweat, and dirt by washing your back regularly. You can try to incorporate loose-fitted clothing into your daily attire, as it helps your skin “breathe”. Tight-fitting clothing, on the other hand, can cause friction and aggravate your bacne.
It is also important to always keep your bed linens, towels, pillowcases, and clothes clean by washing them regularly or after each use.
A healthy diet can also help prevent acne breakouts. This includes drinking an adequate amount of water each day, getting enough sleep, reducing stress, and eating more high-fibre foods like whole grains and pulses. Naturally, a healthy diet means avoiding sweets, sugary drinks, and foods made from white flour.
Final Thoughts On Tackling Back Acne Effectively
Back acne, or bacne, is a frustrating yet treatable skin condition that affects individuals of all ages, regardless of gender or lifestyle. While it can be persistent and challenging to manage, the good news is that a combination of proper hygiene, lifestyle adjustments, and effective treatments can help significantly improve your condition.
Regular cleansing, avoiding irritants, and choosing the right skincare products are essential steps in managing back acne and preventing future breakouts.
It is also important to resist the urge to pop, irritate, or aggravate the affected areas, as doing so can lead to permanent scarring and even more breakouts.
Just remember, with patience and the right approach, back acne can be controlled, leading to clearer, healthier skin over time.
If you are interested in our bacne facials, never hesitate to reach out to our team to book a consultation.
