BACK ACNE - How to Treat and Prevent It | Doctorly Routines

Summary

In this informative video, Dr. Shaw and Dr. Maxfield discuss effective treatments and lifestyle changes for managing back acne, a common yet often overlooked issue. They emphasize the importance of personal experience, sharing tips such as regularly washing bed sheets, showering post-exercise, and tying back long hair. The doctors recommend over-the-counter solutions, including benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid cleansers, as well as sprays for easy application. For more severe cases, they suggest consulting a dermatologist for prescription options like oral antibiotics or isotretinoin. The video aims to empower viewers with practical advice and tools to combat back acne.

Takeaways

• 😀 Back acne is caused by hormonal influences, clogged pores, bacteria buildup, and increased oil production.
• 🛏️ Change bed sheets and towels at least once a week to reduce oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria on the skin.
• 👕 Wearing a clean shirt to bed can help prevent back acne by avoiding contact with dirty bedding.
• 🚿 Showering immediately after sweating (e.g., post-gym) can help prevent acne by removing sweat and bacteria.
• 💇‍♀️ Keeping long hair tied up can prevent hair products from clogging back pores.
• 🧴 Over-the-counter treatments like benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid are effective for managing back acne.
• ✨ Benzoyl peroxide (4-10%) is recommended as the first-line treatment for back acne due to its high efficacy.
• 💧 Salicylic acid can be used in cleansers or as a spray to treat hard-to-reach areas effectively.
• 💊 If over-the-counter treatments are ineffective, consulting a dermatologist for prescription options is advisable.
• 📈 Oral antibiotics like doxycycline may be prescribed for severe back acne, while isotretinoin (Accutane) is a more aggressive treatment for chronic cases.

Q & A

What are the primary causes of back acne?

Back acne is primarily caused by hormonal influences, clogged pores, bacteria buildup, and increased oil production.

What lifestyle changes can help prevent back acne?

Key lifestyle changes include washing bed sheets and towels weekly, wearing clean shirts to bed, showering after sweating, and keeping long hair tied up to prevent hair products from clogging pores.

What over-the-counter products are recommended for treating back acne?

It is recommended to use cleansers containing benzoyl peroxide (4%-10%) or salicylic acid (2%). Additionally, salicylic acid spray products can help target hard-to-reach areas.

Why is benzoyl peroxide preferred for back acne treatment?

Benzoyl peroxide is preferred due to its efficacy in treating acne, helping to reduce bacteria and inflammation associated with clogged pores.

What role does showering play in preventing back acne?

Showering after activities that cause sweating helps remove sweat, oils, and bacteria from the skin, significantly reducing the chances of developing back acne.

How can one effectively apply topical treatments to the back?

Using a medicated spatula or a 'back buddy' can help apply topical treatments to hard-to-reach areas on the back.

What are some prescription treatment options for severe back acne?

Prescription options include oral antibiotics like doxycycline and isotretinoin (Accutane), which are effective for more severe cases and deep scarring.

What should patients do if over-the-counter treatments do not improve their back acne?

If over-the-counter treatments do not yield results, patients should consult a dermatologist for further evaluation and potential prescription options.

How often should bed sheets and towels be changed to help prevent back acne?

Bed sheets and towels should be changed at least once a week to minimize the buildup of oils, dead skin cells, and bacteria.

What percentage of patients typically see improvement with over-the-counter options for back acne?

Approximately 60% to 70% of patients see significant improvement with consistent use of over-the-counter options.