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Although the name might seem amusing, bacne (medically coined acne vulgaris of the back), isn't a skin ailment that is funny or fun to deal with. If you are truly dedicated to finding a back acne remedy, it is crucial to learn about the causes of acne, the best prevention methods in addition to the types of available back acne treatments.

Causes of Back Acne

Acne vulgaris, or common acne, is an inflammatory reaction occurring in the pilosebaceous units, or PSUs. PSUs consist of the hair and the hair follicle, a sebaceous gland and the corresponding sebum it manufactures and the skin pore. The sebaceous gland produces sebum, an oil, to moisturize and protect the skin. When the pore, the opening to the skin's surface, becomes blocked, sebum cannot exit the follicle and begins to collect. The force of the sebum traveling through the follicle, in addition to this backup, damages the cells lining the canal. The body's immune response to this injury causes the inflammation and redness that is commonly associated with the zit.

Contrary to traditional thought, the main cause of acne is not bacteria but the injury caused to the follicular canals by sebum. An imbalance in hormones is the main contributing factor for increases in sebum and its forceful output.

Although not the main cause of acne, bacteria do participate in the manifestation of acne. The acne-causing bacterium, P. acnes, is found naturally in the skin. When the hair follicle breaks, this bacterium, sebum and excess skin cells flow into the dermis, causing infection.

Other lesser contributing factors are those that cause the clogging of pores. Sebum especially that has hardened because of a deficit of essential fatty acids in the body, and dead skin cells are the main perpetrators.

Additional contributors to acne specifically found on the back include tight clothing and not showering after activities causing sweat. Both create an environment conducive to bacteria growth and contribute to oil buildup.

Back Acne Prevention

Now, since you are better aware of acne causes, you can more effectively prevent back acne.

You can't control your genetics and puberty but there are ways to get sebum production under control. Stress causes hormone imbalances which indirectly signal the sebaceous glands to produce more sebum. Finding a stress reduction method that works for you is most important, however, some include exercising, meditation or yoga, deep breathing exercises, and simple improvement of one's time management skills.

To prevent the pore-blocking hardening of sebum, increase your intake of essential fatty acids. You can easily do this by purchasing Omega-3 supplements, which include fish, cod liver or flax seed. Furthermore, get rid of excess skin and reduce the likelihood of pores getting clogged by using a light scrub or a loofah sponge.

Lastly, control the numbers of P. acnes bacteria within your skin by regularly cleansing. Always follow exercise with a shower and invest in a wardrobe of loose clothing that breathes well.

Back Acne Treatment

To clear up back acne once you have it, a regimen similar to that for facial acne can be followed:

Benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid are common over the counter products used to get rid of back acne. Both of these products dry the oil found superficially in the skin and can arouse further irritation. Unfortunately, benzoyl peroxide has recently been discovered to cause damaging free radicals.

Doctor prescribed retinoids, substances that activate the retinoid receptors, help reduce fine lines, shrink pore size, inhibit sebum production and minimize sebaceous glands. These prescriptions are known to cause excessive drying of the skin and sensitivity to the sun's rays. Accutane, or the retinoid Isotretinoin, can be prescribed for sever acne on the back if all other methods go unsuccessful.

Prescription antibiotics can be administered either topically or orally to manage bacteria levels. Additionally, they reduce the amount of irritating chemicals produced by white blood cells in the immune response. The side effects of antibiotics include: possible skin discoloration, nausea, sensitivity to the sun and yeast infections in women, among others.

To clear back acne, especially severe cases, you should see a dermatologist. Although we have provided a broad overview of the types of treatment, your dermatologist will review your symptoms, skin type and then recommend a solution specifically catered to you.