Body Acne in Men: Causes, Factors, and How to Address It

Annelise Hillmann • Jun 22, 2023

Body acne – let's talk about it. There's a reason #bodyacne has 264M views on TikTok and #backacne has 308M. While acne is often associated with teenagers, it can affect people of all ages, including men. Body acne, or acne that appears on the chest, back, and shoulders, can be particularly frustrating and embarrassing for men. In this post, we'll discuss the causes and factors of body acne in men and provide tips on how to address it.

What Causes Body Acne in Men?

Body acne is caused by the same factors as facial acne: excess oil production, clogged pores, and bacteria. However, there are some additional factors that can contribute to body acne in men:

Hormones

Hormones play a significant role in acne, and men's hormones can fluctuate throughout their lives. Testosterone, a male hormone, can stimulate the sebaceous glands to produce more oil, which can clog pores and lead to acne.
Genetics

Genetics can also play a role in acne. If your parents had acne, you are more likely to develop it as well.
Sweat

Sweat is a natural bodily response that helps regulate body temperature and eliminate toxins. However, excessive sweat and the accumulation of sweat on the skin can potentially contribute to acne breakouts. When sweat mixes with bacteria, oil, and dead skin cells on the surface of the skin, it can clog the pores, leading to the formation of acne.
Friction

The friction caused by sweat-soaked clothing or backpacks can further irritate the skin, exacerbating existing acne or triggering new breakouts. It is important to cleanse the skin thoroughly after sweating to remove sweat, oil, and impurities and prevent pore blockage. Choosing breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics for clothing and avoiding tight-fitting items can also help minimize the likelihood of sweat-induced acne.

Factors that Contribute to Body Acne in Men

In addition to the causes of body acne in men, there are several factors that can contribute to its development:

Diet – A diet high in processed foods, sugar, and dairy can contribute to acne.
Stress – Stress can cause hormonal imbalances and lead to acne.
Poor Hygiene – Poor hygiene can contribute to the development of acne, as bacteria and oil can build up on the skin's surface.
Medications – Certain medications, such as steroids and lithium, can contribute to acne.

How to Address Body Acne in Men

Addressing body acne in men requires a comprehensive approach that targets the root causes and factors of acne. Here are some tips on how to address body acne in men:

Maintain Good Hygiene

Maintaining good hygiene is essential for preventing and treating acne. This includes showering regularly, using a gentle cleanser, and exfoliating the skin to remove dead skin cells and prevent clogged pores.

Use Salicylic Acid

Using a Salicylic Acid body spray can help exfoliate the skin and prevent clogged pores. Salicylic Acid is a hero beta-hydroxy acid that can penetrate deep into the pores and dissolve oil and dead skin cells. We recommend this one: FRONTMAN Zit Spray. Easier to use than body wash and more effective because the ingredients stay on your skin for maximum potency.

Wear Loose-Fitting Clothing

Wearing loose-fitting clothing made from breathable fabrics like cotton can help reduce friction and prevent sweat and bacteria from getting trapped.

Use Non-Comedogenic Products

Comedogenic means pore-clogging. Using non-comedogenic products, such as moisturizers and sunscreen, can help prevent clogged pores and reduce the risk of acne. Even a shampoo that you're using could be clogging the pores on your back when it rinses down.

Consider Topical Treatments

Topical treatments, such as benzoyl peroxide and retinoids, can help treat acne by killing bacteria and promoting healthy skin cell turnover. However, these treatments can be drying and irritating, so it's important to use them as directed and under the guidance of a dermatologist. We prefer using Salicylic Acid because it is gentle for all skin types.

Address Underlying Health Conditions

Underlying health conditions, such as hormonal imbalances, can contribute to acne. Addressing these conditions may require medical intervention, such as hormone therapy or medication.

Manage Stress

Managing stress is essential for preventing and treating acne. This includes practicing stress-reducing activities, such as yoga and meditation, and getting enough sleep.

Eat a Healthy Diet

Eating a healthy diet can help prevent and treat acne. This includes eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein and limiting processed foods, sugar, and dairy.

TL;DR

Body acne can be a frustrating and tough. However, by understanding the causes and factors of acne and taking a comprehensive approach to treatment, it is possible to achieve clear, healthy skin. Maintaining good hygiene, wearing loose-fitting clothing, using non-comedogenic products, and using Salicylic Acid body sprays are all effective ways to prevent and treat body acne. Additionally, addressing underlying health conditions, managing stress, and eating a healthy diet can also contribute to clear, healthy skin. If you are struggling with body acne, talk to your dermatologist about the best treatment options for you. With persistence and patience, you can achieve the clear, healthy skin you deserve.