Fashion

What Acne On Your Back Means

by Sienna Fantozzi

No one enjoys a breakout, but getting pimples on your face is definitely something you expect. When zits pop up in other spots, however, you totally start to wonder, what the heck gives?! If you're unsure of what acne on your back means, there are several things that could be causing it that you may not have even realized could contribute to acne. Oops...

Acne on your back, or "bacne," as some embarrassingly describe it, feels a little grosser than face acne for some reason. Even though it's totally normal to break out on your back, zits seem to be appropriate on your face, so when you get them on your body, it might freak you out a bit. It's also a total buzzkill during beach season when you're wearing a swimsuit and tank tops all the time, and it's not like it's as easy to cover up with makeup or concealer as a zit on your face is. So if you're breaking out on your back, you probably want to find the cause and fix it, as soon as possible. Luckily, the causes aren't hormonal, or something internally wrong with you that will take forever to clear up. In fact, it might be as simple as washing your sheets.

These are the most common causes of back acne, so you can clear up before beach season officially hits.

1. Sweat

This one is probably the most obvious, but when you're working out and sweating, the sweat mixes with oil and can irritate or clog pores, creating pimples. Try showering immediately after a workout, and do not sit in your gym clothes any longer than necessary.

2. Tight Clothing

Even if you aren't sweating, clothing that is super tight fitting can create acne because your skin isn't able to breathe. If this sounds like it could be the culprit for you, wear looser clothing and more breathable fabric like cotton.

3. Your Sheets

Your sheets absorb oil and bacteria, so when you lay on them every night, the buildup can cause acne. Make sure to wash your sheets regularly and see if your acne clears up.

4. Your Purse

This is one that you probably never thought of, but acne can be caused by irritations. If something rubs repeatedly against the skin, like a backpack or purse strap, it can irritate the skin and cause breakouts.

5. Your Body Lotion

Jergens Fragrance Free Lotion, $7, Amazon

Certain lotions or beauty products can irritate your skin and cause breakouts, so make sure you're using products that are non-comedogenic with minimal ingredients, and avoid fragrances.

Images: Pexels; Unsplash; Amazon; Pixabay