How Retinol Can Help Treat Body Acne (Backne)

As the temperature rises, the increased sweat and humidity can lead to trouble for individuals with acne-prone skin, causing breakouts not only on the face but also on the body. Dealing with body acne, commonly referred to as backne, can be challenging. In a recent episode of “Dear Derm,” board-certified dermatologist Dr. Mona Gohara explains how to address this issue.

“Backne tends to be more common in the summer when sweat becomes trapped under clothing, leading to clogged pores and acne,” says Dr. Gohara. She also notes that similar problems can occur on the chest and shoulders. When it comes to tackling these frustrating and sometimes painful pimples, one essential ingredient often overlooked is retinoids.

Retinol is widely recognized as the go-to treatment for facial acne, and extending its use beyond the face can be highly beneficial. According to Dr. Gohara, “Retinol is like a cure-all for various skin concerns, including acne and backne. It helps prevent new breakouts and speeds up the healing of existing ones. By promoting cell turnover, it can also reduce post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation caused by acne on your back.”

While you can invest in a retinol body lotion to target acne all over your body, you can also save money by repurposing your facial serum. Dr. Gohara suggests, “Invest in a high-quality over-the-counter retinoid product, apply a small amount, dab it on each shoulder blade, gently massage it in, and leave it on overnight.”

By incorporating retinol into your daily skincare routine, you can expect to see improvements in your backne and other affected areas on your body. Retinol can address various acne-related concerns effectively.

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