Body Acne Treatment Basics

When we think of acne, our mind automatically forms an image of a teenager’s acne ridden face. However, even though acne is mostly prominent on the face, body acne is also very common. I think the reason why we all associate acne with face is because on the face we usually SEE acne, whereas on the body, not so often.

What is body acne? Body acne is a deeper form of acne, whereby the skin on the body is thicker, with larger pores than on the face, which makes acne become more severe. Interesting trivia, the only two places on the body where acne will not form is our palms and soles of our feet. Reason is because these area do not have sebaceous glands, so acne cannot form there.

Why do we get body acne? Studies show that a main reason for some to be more susceptible to body acne than others is genetically in nature. Chances are, if your parents, or grandparents had body acne, you might develop it as well. Also if you already have face acne, you are more likely to develop body acne too.

Of course the full causes of body acne are not entirely known and this is still under investigation by the medical professionals all over the world. Fact is though that body acne is much harder to treat, because blemishes are usually deep and highly inflamed, much more so than on the face.

How do we treat body acne? Depending on the type of acne you have, there are different treatments that you can provide your body to rid itself from acne.

Slight to moderate acne needs less care than is required in moderate to severe cases. Many times you only need to cleanse gently your skin and allow it to dry properly, after which apply 10% alpha hydroxy acid. There are various acne body washes containing salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide on the market that will help with the cleansing process.

For severe acne you might need something as strong as Accutane (or Raccutane as it is called outside of the US), a vitamin A derivative, which is found in pill form, taken normally for 15-20 weeks.

But usually it doesn’t have to come to Accutane. Body acne treatment might just include a proper body hygiene by showering right after extenuous exercise, using a mild scrub or soap, which gets rid of the dead skin, using loose and comfortable clothes for daily wear. These should go a long way in keeping your skin fresh and acne free.