Let’s Talk Bacne: Why It Happens + How to Clear It Up
If you’ve ever dealt with breakouts on your back (aka bacne), you know how stubborn and annoying it can be. Whether it pops up after the gym, shows up out of nowhere, or sticks around no matter what you try—it’s a thing. And it’s more common than you think.
I get so many questions about bacne in the treatment room, and I want to break it down for you in a way that makes sense—no shame, no overcomplicated advice, just what’s really going on and what can help.
So... What Is Bacne?
Bacne is just what it sounds like: acne on your back. But it tends to be a bit trickier than facial acne because the skin back there is thicker, there are more oil glands, and it’s not exactly the easiest spot to reach or keep an eye on.
It usually shows up when pores or hair follicles get clogged with oil, sweat, dead skin cells, and acne-causing bacteria. Add tight clothes, friction, or hormonal changes to the mix, and you’ve got the perfect storm.
Why You Might Be Getting Bacne
Here are some of the most common triggers I see with my clients:
Sweaty workouts + no shower after (life happens, I get it)
Haircare products running down your back in the shower
Heavy lotions or body products that clog pores
Tight clothing, especially after sweating
Fragrance or residue from laundry products
Hormones and stress (yep, those too)
Sometimes, it’s a combo of a few of these. Sometimes, it’s just your body doing its own thing.
How to Keep Bacne in Check
You can absolutely manage and clear bacne—you just need a consistent plan that works for your lifestyle. Here are some of my go-to recommendations:
🧴 Use Acne-Safe Products
Check your body wash, lotion, sunscreen—even your hair conditioner. Make sure they’re labeled non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores). Check out the acne ingredient checker on Skinfatuationaesthetics.com. If you’re not sure, I’m always happy to help scan ingredient lists.
🚿 Shower After You Sweat
Sweat sitting on your skin = breakouts waiting to happen. If you can’t shower right away, even a quick rinse or wipe-down helps.
Pro tip for a quick fix: use a acne friendly alcohol free body wipe to wipe down your back the best you can and then spray Hydrinity mist or another Hypocholorous acid spray on your back to help cleanse the area.
💨 Skip the Tight Gym Clothes (When You Can)
Anything tight, especially after sweating, can cause friction and trap oil and bacteria. Try looser, breathable fabrics when possible—your skin will thank you.
✨ Exfoliate (But Don’t Scrub!)
Chemical exfoliants like salicylic acid or mandelic acid are amazing for bacne. Avoid harsh scrubs—they can make things worse.
Pro Tip: Find a salicylic acid body spray(Naturium, Panoxyl, Differin all have a body spray). Super easy way to apply the product to a hard to reach area, just don’t overuse it and dry out your skin.
💆♀️ Don’t Forget the Order of Things in the Shower
Always wash your hair before your body, not after. Otherwise, conditioner can coat your back and leave residue behind.
💡 Consider a Back Treatment
Sometimes you just need a professional reset. I offer back facials and treatments tailored for body acne—think deep cleansing, exfoliation, extractions if needed, and calming ingredients your skin will love.
You Deserve Clear Skin—Front and Back
Bacne is super common. It doesn’t mean you’re dirty or doing anything wrong—it just means your skin needs a little more support in that area. Plus it is a really hard area to reach and see clearly for yourself. If you're struggling with breakouts or unsure where to start, come see me. We’ll talk about your routine, find the triggers, and build a plan that fits your life.
You don’t have to figure it out alone. 💛
