For most people who have acne, it appears primarily on the face. However, if this skin condition progresses and becomes more severe, it can pop up on other parts of the body. Although all individuals with facial acne will not experience this problem, nearly everyone with body acne has breakouts on the face as well.
Body acne most commonly occurs on the back, neck, chest, shoulders, and upper arms, although it also can develop on the buttocks and legs. It is generally caused by the same factors associated with facial acne: hyperactive sebaceous (oil) glands, accumulation of dead skin cells, and Propionibacterium acnes, the bacteria that cause acne. These bacteria are always present on the skin, but they can become a problem when skin pores become blocked with excess oil combined with dead skin cells. Blocked pores develop into blackheads and may progress to acne pimples if bacteria infiltrate the pores.
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Although facial and body acne share common causes, other factors may be involved when it appears on different areas of the body. Here are some clues into the causes of body acne (as well as acne-like conditions) on various parts of the body. Resolving any of these issues may result in a reduction or even elimination of the pimples in any given area.
In addition to the clues mentioned below, it’s also important to consider whether you may be allergic or hypersensitive to laundry detergent or softeners, dry cleaning chemicals, or personal care products (e.g., soaps, body lotion, body wash, shaving products), all of which may result in acne-like skin eruptions.
Neck
Hyperactive adrenal glands may have a role, as may consuming too much sugar in your diet. Neck acne may be triggered by wearing clothing that is irritating the neck or greasy hair brushing against the neck.
Shoulder
Acne on the shoulders may be associated with stress and feelings of vulnerability. Friction from backpacks, shoulder bags, bra straps, or athletic gear also can be a factor.
Back Acne
The back, similar to the face, has more sebaceous glands (overactive oil glands) per square inch than other parts of the body, so it can be especially susceptible to acne, or “bacne.”
Chest Acne
Pimples that appear on the chest may be associated with poor digestion, fungal infections, or eating lots of spicy foods.
Arms
The skin on the arms is coarser than on the face or back and is more susceptible to the development of small spots called keratosis pilaris. This is an acne-like condition caused by an accumulation of too much keratin (a protein found in the skin) that can block hair follicles, resulting in bumps. Gentle exfoliation can help.
Stomach Acne
The stomach rarely is affected by acne since there are few sebaceous glands in this area. If acne does develop, it may be associated with high blood sugar levels or tight clothing.
Pelvic Area
Acne that develops in the pelvic area can be difficult to control because the skin tends to retain moisture. The appearance of pimples or bumps may be associated with ingrown hairs from shaving or waxing, or could be a symptom of a sexually transmitted disease. Tight underwear and pants should be avoided, and cotton panties should be worn.
Legs Acne
Like the arms, the legs may be susceptible to keratosis pilaris. Acne-like conditions also may develop because of irritation from sports or athletic equipment, shaving, or ingrown hairs.
Buttocks Acne
According to dermatologist Suephy Chen, MD, associate professor of dermatology and director of the Dermatology clinical and outcomes research unit at the Emory University School of Medicine, “Technically speaking, you don’t get acne on the butt.” But when pimples appear on your posterior, you want them gone, regardless of whether they are really acne. The most common causes of buttock bumps are folliculitis (inflammation of hair follicles), which usually disappears on its own; or carbuncles (aka, boils), which can develop if folliculitis becomes a deeper infection. Acne-like eruptions also may occur from prolonged sitting, eating spicy foods, and poor digestion.
Do you experience body acne? Which areas are of most concern to you?
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Sources
Everyday Health. How to deal with buttocks breakouts
VeryWell. Body and back acne basics: causes and treatment
