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Body acne affects about half of all people who have facial acne. While it develops through the same basic process as facial acne, the skin on your body has unique characteristics that influence how breakouts form and how they should be treated.
Whether you’re dealing with back acne, chest breakouts, or acne in other areas, understanding the differences between body and facial skin is key to getting clearer skin.
The information is as science-based and thorough as possible. If you find anything inaccurate or that needs updating, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Understanding Body Acne
Body acne develops through the same process as facial acne—clogged pores, bacterial overgrowth, and inflammation. However, the skin on your body differs from facial skin in important ways that affect both how acne forms and how it should be treated.
Back and Body Acne
Start here. A comprehensive overview of body acne including information on causes and treatment options.
Body Acne Is More Common Than You Think
You’re not alone. Body acne is present in about 50% of people who have facial acne, making it far more common than many people realize.
What Is the Difference Between Skin on the Face and Skin on the Body?
Not all skin is the same. Facial skin is more delicate and requires special care compared to body skin, which affects how acne develops and responds to treatment in each area.
Why Do People Get Acne Mostly on the Face and Upper Body?
It’s all about oil. Pores in the face and upper body produce more skin oil (sebum) than other areas, which is why acne concentrates in these regions.
Body Acne by Location
Different areas of the body have unique characteristics that affect how acne develops and how it should be treated. Here’s what you need to know about acne in specific locations.
Neck Acne
Information and treatment for acne on the back of the neck, a common but often overlooked location for breakouts.
Scalp Acne
What it is and how to treat it. Scalp acne can be painful and challenging to address, but effective treatments are available.
Causes and Triggers
Body acne can be triggered or worsened by factors that don’t affect facial acne as much. Physical irritation is a particularly important factor for body acne.
Does Physically Irritating the Skin Cause Body Acne?
Yes, and it can happen to anyone. Physical irritation from tight clothing, sports equipment, backpack straps, and other sources can trigger or worsen body acne, even in people with otherwise healthy skin.
Who Gets Body Acne?
Body acne can affect anyone, but some groups are more prone to developing it than others.
Who Gets Body Acne More–Males or Females?
Males might experience body acne slightly more than females, likely due to hormonal differences and higher sebum production.