Acne doesn't just affect the face. For many people, breakouts also appear on the back, shoulders, and chest. Commonly called back acne or bacne, this condition can range from a few small pimples to painful cysts that leave scars.

Because the skin on the back contains a high concentration of oil glands, it's especially prone to acne. Unfortunately, bacne can also be harder to treat than facial acne, since it's often more difficult to reach and may go unnoticed until it becomes severe.

Here's what causes back acne, how to treat it, and when it's time to seek professional help.

What is back acne?

Back acne develops when pores become clogged with:

  • Excess oil (sebum)
  • Dead skin cells
  • Bacteria
  • Sweat and debris

The result can be:

  • Whiteheads
  • Blackheads
  • Red inflamed pimples
  • Pustules
  • Deep cystic acne

Bacne commonly appears on the upper back, shoulders, and chest because these areas contain some of the body's largest and most active oil glands.

What causes back acne?

Several factors can contribute to bacne.

Excess oil production

People who naturally produce more oil are more likely to experience clogged pores and breakouts.

Hormonal changes

Hormonal fluctuations during puberty, menstrual cycles, pregnancy, or conditions such as PCOS can increase oil production.

Sweat and friction

Sweaty clothing, sports equipment, backpacks, and tight-fitting workout gear can trap heat, oil, and bacteria against the skin.

Genetics

If acne runs in your family, you may be more prone to developing back acne.

Certain medications

Some medications can contribute to acne by affecting hormones or increasing inflammation.

How to treat mild back acne at home

Many cases of mild bacne respond to consistent skincare.

Use a benzoyl peroxide wash

Benzoyl peroxide helps reduce acne causing bacteria and inflammation. Look for body washes containing 4% to 10% benzoyl peroxide. Be aware that benzoyl peroxide can bleach fabrics and towels.

Try salicylic acid

Salicylic acid helps exfoliate dead skin cells and unclog pores. Body washes and sprays containing salicylic acid can be particularly useful for larger treatment areas such as the back.

Shower after sweating

Sweat can mix with oil and bacteria, increasing the risk of breakouts. Showering after workouts may help reduce flare-ups.

Wear breathable clothing

Loose-fitting, moisture-wicking fabrics can help reduce friction and irritation.

Avoid picking

Picking or squeezing bacne can worsen inflammation and increase the risk of scarring.

When over-the-counter treatments aren't enough

Home treatments don't always work, especially for moderate or severe acne.

You should consider seeing a healthcare provider if:

  • Bacne is painful
  • You have large cysts or nodules
  • Acne is leaving scars
  • Breakouts cover large areas of the back
  • Over-the-counter treatments haven't helped after 8 to 12 weeks

These are signs that prescription acne treatment may be needed.

Prescription treatments for back acne

Topical retinoids

Examples include:

These medications help prevent clogged pores and reduce future breakouts.

Oral antibiotics

Examples include:

  • Doxycycline
  • Minocycline

These medications reduce inflammation and acne-causing bacteria and are often prescribed for moderate to severe bacne.

Hormonal treatments

For women with hormone-driven acne, certain FDA approved birth control pills may help reduce breakouts.

Isotretinoin (Accutane)

For severe, scarring, or treatment-resistant bacne, isotretinoin may be recommended. It's one of the most effective treatments available for severe acne.

Can back acne cause scars?

Yes. Because back acne often involves larger, deeper lesions, it can lead to:

  • Permanent acne scars
  • Dark spots (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation)
  • Changes in skin texture

Early treatment can help reduce the risk of long-term skin damage.

Can you get treatment for bacne online?

Yes. Many cases of back acne can be evaluated through telehealth.

A healthcare provider can often assess bacne by reviewing:

  • Your symptoms
  • Medical history
  • Photos of the affected areas

Research published in Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology found that teledermatology can effectively assess acne severity and provide outcomes comparable to in-person evaluations for many patients.

Getting back acne treatment with August

With August Online Urgent Care, you can access acne care online.

How it works

  1. Chat about your symptoms and acne history.
  2. Upload photos of the affected areas.
  3. Connect with a licensed clinician if needed.
  4. Receive a prescription if medically appropriate.
  5. Access free follow-up care for up to 12 months on the same prescription.

Cost

  • Flat $39 clinician visit fee
  • No insurance required
  • Prescription sent directly to your preferred pharmacy
  • 12 months of free follow-up care on the same prescription

Tips for preventing bacne

  • Shower soon after exercise
  • Change out of sweaty clothes promptly
  • Wash bedding regularly
  • Avoid heavy, pore-clogging body products
  • Wear loose-fitting workout clothing
  • Follow your treatment plan consistently

Back acne can be frustrating, uncomfortable and difficult to treat on your own. While mild cases may improve with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid washes, persistent or severe bacne often requires prescription treatment.

If your back acne is painful, widespread, or leaving scars, speaking with a healthcare provider can help you find the right treatment plan and prevent long-term skin damage.