How do I get rid of back acne fast?

I also struggled with back acne. It's very embarrassing. And, I'm always trying to find things that will cover most of it up...so sometimes I can't wear something that I otherwise would have. Anyway, here's what has helped me:

First, make sure you cleanse at least once a day. Don't overdo it here (sometimes people shower more often thinking they'll get rid of the acne by washing it away - you can actually make things worse if you strip away too much of your natural oils because your skin will respond with making more oil - causing more acne.) If, however, you sweat a lot, you may want to wash your skin again (even it it's just with a wash cloth) - for instance, after playing sports or in the hot summer months, etc. Wash with a cleanser that YOUR skin responds to. But, do not choose a cleanser that has alcohol in it (as this also causes your skin to dry out and cause more acne). Also, don't choose a cleanser that has any fragrance in it either.

Personally, I don't care for the body washes as they never worked for me either. If you like the Neutrogena products, maybe try the glycerin soap bar instead. It's inexpensive (compared to other acne products) and it's gentle - plus doesn't have harsh ingredients. I used to use this (I now make my own) and I liked it because it didn't have the harsh ingredients. Give it a try...I think you'll like it.

Second, I also use this method:

a water / vinegar solution 1:1 ratio Apple cider vinegar is best but I’ve also used regular vinegar. I use a 1:1 ratio but you can use less vinegar if you'd like (you may want to start off with 90% water, 10% vinegar to see how your skin reacts - work your way up, if needed). Put it in a spray bottle and spray the problem areas at night before you go to bed then shower in the morning. If you normally shower at night, go ahead and still spray it. The "vinegary" smell should dissipate but you may still want to wash off with a wash cloth in the morning. This can be very helpful for your back.

I would also exfoliate on a regular basis. Exfoliating your skin will help remove dead skin cells that get trapped because of too much sebum (oil) on your skin - causing pores to get clogged...thus forming acne. With oily skin, you should exfoliate 3-5 per week. If you have dry or sensitive skin, only once per week; Normal skin would be everyday. Don't overdo it. You'll make it worse - it's not necessary to scrub hard, be gentle.

Also...regarding benzoyl peroxide: In order to get good results (for most people) is to use it on a consistent basis. Usually a 2.5% concentration works for most people if you use it daily. However, for back acne, this is hard to do because it will bleach clothes, sheets and hair. I think it works quite well for acne but I don't use it for my back. Instead, I use the water / vinegar solution I mentioned above.

Lastly, regarding food / water. First, drinking a lot of water will help to flush toxins out of your body. Also, pay attention to your body - do you notice more breakouts after you eat certain foods? You may or may not but I happen to notice more problems when I eat too much dairy - I love ice cream, milk, cheese, etc. So, when I would break out more often after eating these foods, I decided to be a little more careful how often I ate dairy. Everyone is different so for about a week, just pay attention to what you are eating and how your skin may / may not react. Kind of a pain but you may notice something that may help you in the long run.

Be as consistent as possible with your skin care regimen and you should be able to keep your back acne at bay. This is what works for me. I hope this helps you!! Good luck to you!

Salt Water Cotton Ball Method THis method really works i do it all the time: So, get some cotton balls and a bowl. And fill the bowl with hot water half way and add salt into it so the salt can dissolve. and then add cold water so the water will become warm, make sure the water is salty becasue the key thing here is the salt. Afterwards you have made salt water. So now get the cotton swab and dip it in. And then put the cotton on ur pimple and leave it on for 5 minutes set a timer or something, It may sting just a tiny bit, but its fine. after 5 mintues you will see the pimple shrinking and starting to disappear. if still there you may need to do it several more times it varies on your pimple. Goodluck! it really does work!

I want to help people with acne and understand their problems.

As part of my thesis for the completion of my Bachelor Communication I am doing research on acne around the world. You are doing me a big favour by taking part in the survey. The survey is 100% anonymous.

www.thesistools.com/research_acne

Yours sincerely,

Gideon Pomerantz

Go to the dermatologist