Why do I have acne on my back and shoulders?

Back and shoulder acne occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria, often triggered by hormonal fluctuations, excessive sweating, or friction from clothing. Managing it requires targeted skincare, lifestyle changes, and sometimes medical treatment.

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Understanding Back and Shoulder Acne

Back and shoulder acne, often called 'bacne,' affects up to 60% of people who experience facial acne. While it shares similarities with facial breakouts, the skin on your back and shoulders has unique characteristics that can make this type of acne particularly stubborn. The area contains more sebaceous glands per square inch than most other body parts, and these glands produce sebum (oil) that can easily clog pores when combined with dead skin cells and bacteria.

Unlike facial acne that you notice immediately, back and shoulder acne can develop undetected for weeks. The skin in these areas is thicker, which means pores are larger and can trap more debris. Additionally, these areas are often covered by clothing, creating a warm, moist environment where acne-causing bacteria thrive. Understanding the specific factors contributing to your back and shoulder breakouts is the first step toward finding an effective treatment strategy.

The Science Behind Body Acne Formation

Acne develops through a complex process involving four main factors: excess oil production, clogged hair follicles, bacterial growth, and inflammation. On your back and shoulders, this process is amplified by the density of sebaceous glands and the size of the pores. When sebum production increases, it mixes with dead skin cells that haven't properly shed, forming a plug in the hair follicle.

Types of Back and Shoulder Acne

Acne severity and treatment recommendations should be evaluated by a healthcare provider for personalized care.
Acne TypeAppearanceSeverityTypical Treatment
BlackheadsBlackheads (Open Comedones)Dark spots in poresMildSalicylic acid, retinoids
WhiteheadsWhiteheads (Closed Comedones)Small white bumps under skinMildBenzoyl peroxide, retinoids
PapulesPapulesSmall red bumps without pusModerateTopical antibiotics, benzoyl peroxide
PustulesPustulesRed bumps with white/yellow pusModerateTopical/oral antibiotics
NodulesNodulesLarge, hard lumps under skinSevereOral medications, isotretinoin
CystsCystsDeep, painful, pus-filled lumpsSevereIsotretinoin, hormonal therapy

Acne severity and treatment recommendations should be evaluated by a healthcare provider for personalized care.

Cutibacterium acnes (formerly Propionibacterium acnes), the primary bacteria associated with acne, thrives in this oxygen-poor environment. As these bacteria multiply, they trigger an inflammatory response from your immune system, leading to the red, swollen bumps characteristic of inflammatory acne. The type of acne you develop depends on the depth and severity of this process. The following table breaks down the different types of acne you might experience on your back and shoulders.

Hormonal Factors and Body Acne

Hormones play a crucial role in back and shoulder acne development. Androgens, including testosterone and DHEA-S (dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate), stimulate sebaceous glands to produce more oil. During puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, or periods of stress, hormone levels fluctuate significantly, often triggering or worsening acne breakouts. In adults, hormonal imbalances can persist, leading to ongoing acne issues well beyond the teenage years.

Testosterone and Acne Connection

Both men and women produce testosterone, though men typically have higher levels. When testosterone levels rise, sebaceous glands increase oil production. Additionally, testosterone can be converted to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), an even more potent androgen that further stimulates sebum production. Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) often experience elevated androgen levels, leading to persistent acne on the face, back, and shoulders.

If you suspect hormonal imbalances are contributing to your acne, comprehensive hormone testing can provide valuable insights into your androgen levels and overall hormonal health. Understanding your specific hormone profile helps identify whether hormonal factors are driving your skin issues and guides appropriate treatment strategies.

Cortisol, your body's primary stress hormone, indirectly contributes to acne by increasing inflammation and oil production. Chronic stress keeps cortisol levels elevated, which can worsen existing acne and trigger new breakouts. Studies have shown that students experience more severe acne during exam periods when stress levels peak. Managing stress through exercise, meditation, and adequate sleep can help regulate cortisol levels and improve skin health.

Lifestyle and Environmental Triggers

Your daily habits and environment significantly impact back and shoulder acne. Understanding these triggers helps you make targeted changes to reduce breakouts and prevent future flare-ups.

While exercise benefits overall health, it can contribute to back and shoulder acne if proper hygiene isn't maintained. Sweat itself doesn't cause acne, but when it mixes with bacteria and dead skin cells on your skin's surface, it can clog pores. Tight workout clothing traps sweat against your skin, creating an ideal environment for bacterial growth. This condition, known as acne mechanica, is common among athletes and fitness enthusiasts.

  • Shower immediately after exercising to remove sweat and bacteria
  • Wear moisture-wicking, breathable fabrics during workouts
  • Change out of sweaty clothes as soon as possible
  • Clean exercise equipment before and after use
  • Avoid wearing tight straps or gear that creates friction

Hair and Skincare Products

Many hair products contain oils and silicones that can transfer to your back and shoulders, especially if you have long hair. Conditioners, leave-in treatments, and styling products can clog pores when they come into contact with your skin. Similarly, heavy body lotions or oils may be too rich for acne-prone skin. Look for products labeled 'non-comedogenic' or 'oil-free' to minimize pore-clogging potential.

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Medical Conditions Associated with Body Acne

Several medical conditions can manifest as or worsen back and shoulder acne. Identifying underlying health issues is essential for effective treatment and long-term management.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affects up to 10% of women of reproductive age and commonly causes hormonal acne. Women with PCOS often have elevated levels of androgens, insulin resistance, and irregular menstrual cycles. The acne associated with PCOS tends to be deep, cystic, and concentrated along the jawline, back, and shoulders. Treatment typically involves addressing the underlying hormonal imbalance through medication and lifestyle modifications.

Insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome can also contribute to acne development. When cells become resistant to insulin, the pancreas produces more insulin to compensate. High insulin levels stimulate androgen production and increase sebum production. Additionally, insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) levels rise with insulin resistance, further promoting acne development. Monitoring metabolic health markers like glucose, HbA1c, and insulin can help identify these underlying issues.

Effective Treatment Strategies

Treating back and shoulder acne requires a comprehensive approach that addresses both the symptoms and underlying causes. The effectiveness of different treatments varies based on acne severity, skin type, and individual factors. The following comparison outlines common treatment options and their effectiveness for different acne types.

Topical Treatments

Over-the-counter topical treatments can effectively manage mild to moderate back and shoulder acne. Benzoyl peroxide kills acne-causing bacteria and helps remove excess oil and dead skin cells. Salicylic acid, a beta-hydroxy acid, penetrates pores to dissolve debris and reduce inflammation. For best results, start with lower concentrations to minimize irritation and gradually increase as your skin adjusts.

Prescription topical treatments like retinoids (tretinoin, adapalene) accelerate cell turnover and prevent pore clogging. Topical antibiotics such as clindamycin reduce bacterial growth and inflammation. These medications often require several weeks to show improvement, and initial worsening (purging) is common before skin clears.

Oral Medications

For moderate to severe acne that doesn't respond to topical treatments, oral medications may be necessary. Oral antibiotics like doxycycline or minocycline reduce inflammation and bacterial growth. However, long-term antibiotic use can lead to resistance, so they're typically prescribed for limited periods. Hormonal treatments, including oral contraceptives and spironolactone, can effectively treat hormonal acne in women by regulating androgen levels.

Isotretinoin (Accutane) remains the most effective treatment for severe, cystic acne. This vitamin A derivative reduces sebum production, prevents pore clogging, and has anti-inflammatory effects. While highly effective, isotretinoin requires careful monitoring due to potential side effects and is typically reserved for cases that haven't responded to other treatments.

Prevention and Long-Term Management

Preventing back and shoulder acne requires consistent skincare habits and lifestyle modifications. Establishing a routine that keeps pores clear while maintaining skin health is key to long-term success.

  • Shower daily with a gentle, non-comedogenic body wash
  • Exfoliate 2-3 times weekly with a chemical exfoliant containing salicylic acid or glycolic acid
  • Wear loose, breathable clothing made from natural fibers
  • Wash bed sheets and pillowcases weekly in hot water
  • Avoid picking or squeezing acne, which can lead to scarring and spread bacteria
  • Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet low in high-glycemic foods
  • Manage stress through regular exercise, meditation, or other relaxation techniques

Diet can influence acne development, though individual responses vary. High-glycemic foods that rapidly raise blood sugar levels may worsen acne by increasing insulin and IGF-1 levels. Dairy products, particularly skim milk, have been associated with increased acne risk, possibly due to hormones and bioactive molecules in milk. Consider keeping a food diary to identify potential dietary triggers and work with a healthcare provider to develop a nutrition plan that supports skin health.

For a comprehensive analysis of your existing blood test results and personalized insights into factors that might be affecting your skin health, you can use SiPhox Health's free upload service. This service translates your lab results into clear, actionable recommendations tailored to your unique health profile, helping you understand how your internal health might be impacting your skin.

When Professional Help Is Essential

While many cases of back and shoulder acne improve with over-the-counter treatments and lifestyle changes, certain situations warrant professional medical attention. Recognizing when to seek help ensures you receive appropriate treatment before scarring or other complications develop.

Consult a dermatologist if your acne is severe (numerous cysts or nodules), doesn't improve after 6-8 weeks of consistent over-the-counter treatment, or is causing emotional distress or affecting your quality of life. Additionally, seek medical attention if you develop signs of infection such as increased pain, warmth, red streaks extending from lesions, or fever. Women experiencing acne along with irregular periods, excessive hair growth, or hair loss should be evaluated for hormonal conditions like PCOS.

A dermatologist can perform a thorough skin examination, review your medical history, and potentially order blood tests to identify underlying causes. They may recommend prescription treatments, perform in-office procedures like chemical peels or extractions, or refer you to other specialists if hormonal or metabolic issues are suspected. Early intervention prevents scarring and helps you achieve clearer skin more quickly than trying multiple ineffective treatments on your own.

The Path to Clearer Skin

Back and shoulder acne can be frustrating and impact self-confidence, but understanding its causes empowers you to take control of your skin health. Whether your acne stems from hormonal imbalances, lifestyle factors, or a combination of both, effective treatments are available. The key is identifying your specific triggers and developing a personalized approach that addresses them.

Remember that clearing acne takes time and patience. Most treatments require at least 6-12 weeks to show significant improvement, and your skin may go through an adjustment period before it gets better. Stay consistent with your routine, track your progress, and don't hesitate to seek professional help if needed. With the right approach and persistence, you can achieve the clear, healthy skin you deserve on your back, shoulders, and beyond.

References

  1. Tanghetti, E. A. (2013). The role of inflammation in the pathology of acne. Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 6(9), 27-35.[PubMed]
  2. Zeichner, J. A., Baldwin, H. E., Cook-Bolden, F. E., Eichenfield, L. F., Friedlander, S. F., & Rodriguez, D. A. (2017). Emerging issues in adult female acne. Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 10(1), 37-46.[PubMed]
  3. Dréno, B., Bettoli, V., Araviiskaia, E., Sanchez Viera, M., & Bouloc, A. (2018). The influence of exposome on acne. Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 32(5), 812-819.[PubMed][DOI]
  4. Rocha, M. A., & Bagatin, E. (2018). Adult-onset acne: prevalence, impact, and management challenges. Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 11, 59-69.[PubMed][DOI]
  5. Elsaie, M. L. (2016). Hormonal treatment of acne vulgaris: an update. Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 9, 241-248.[PubMed][DOI]
  6. Zaenglein, A. L., Pathy, A. L., Schlosser, B. J., Alikhan, A., Baldwin, H. E., Berson, D. S., et al. (2016). Guidelines of care for the management of acne vulgaris. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 74(5), 945-973.[PubMed][DOI]

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Frequently Asked Questions

How can I test my hormones at home?

You can test your hormones at home with SiPhox Health's Hormone Focus Program. This CLIA-certified program includes testosterone, cortisol, DHEA-S, and other key hormone markers, providing lab-quality results from the comfort of your home to help identify hormonal factors that may be contributing to your acne.

What's the difference between back acne and facial acne?

Back acne involves larger pores and thicker skin compared to facial acne. The back and shoulders have more sebaceous glands per square inch and are often covered by clothing, creating a warm, moist environment. This makes back acne typically more stubborn and prone to deeper, cystic lesions that can be harder to treat than facial breakouts.

Can certain foods cause back and shoulder acne?

Yes, high-glycemic foods and dairy products, particularly skim milk, have been linked to increased acne. These foods can raise insulin and IGF-1 levels, which stimulate oil production and inflammation. However, dietary triggers vary by individual, so keeping a food diary can help identify your specific triggers.

How long does it take for back acne to clear up with treatment?

Most acne treatments require 6-12 weeks to show significant improvement. Initial worsening (purging) is common in the first few weeks as your skin adjusts. Consistency is key, and combining treatments with lifestyle changes typically yields the best results. Severe acne may require several months of treatment.

Should I stop exercising if it's causing back acne?

No, don't stop exercising. Instead, modify your routine: shower immediately after workouts, wear moisture-wicking fabrics, change out of sweaty clothes quickly, and clean equipment before use. Exercise benefits overall health and can actually help regulate hormones that contribute to acne when combined with proper hygiene.

When should I see a dermatologist for back acne?

See a dermatologist if your acne is severe with numerous cysts or nodules, doesn't improve after 6-8 weeks of consistent over-the-counter treatment, causes emotional distress, or shows signs of infection. Women with acne plus irregular periods or excessive hair growth should also seek evaluation for hormonal conditions.

This article is licensed under CC BY 4.0. You are free to share and adapt this material with attribution.

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Director of Clinical Product Operations at SiPhox Health with a background in medicine and a passion for health optimization. Experienced in leading software and clinical development teams, contributing to patents, launching health-related products, and turning diagnostics into actionable tools.

View Details
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Advisor

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Dr. Thompson’s interests in exercise, general cardiology and sports cardiology originated from his own distance running: he qualified for the 1972 Olympic Marathon Trials as a 3rd year medical student and finished 16th in the 1976 Boston Marathon. Dr. Thompson publishes a blog 500 Rules of Cardiology where he shares lessons and anecdotes that he has learned over his extensive career as a physician, researcher and teacher.

View Details
Robert Lufkin, MD

Robert Lufkin, MD

Advisor

Physician/medical school professor (UCLA and USC) and New York Times bestselling author empowering people to take back their metabolic health with lifestyle and other tools. A veteran of the Today Show, USA Today, and a regular contributor to FOX and other network news stations, his weekly video podcast reaches over 500,000 people. After reversing chronic disease and transforming his own life he is making it his mission to help others do the same.

His latest book, ‘Lies I Taught In Medical School’ is an instant New York Times bestseller and has re-framed how we think about metabolic health and longevity. In addition to being a practicing physician, he is author of over 200 peer reviewed scientific papers and 14 books that are available in fourteen languages.

View Details
Ben Bikman, PhD

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Advisor

Benjamin Bikman earned his Ph.D. in Bioenergetics and was a postdoctoral fellow with the Duke-National University of Singapore in metabolic disorders. Currently, his professional focus as a scientist and professor (Brigham Young University) is to better understand the role of elevated insulin and nutrient metabolism in regulating obesity, diabetes, and dementia.

In addition to his academic pursuits, Dr. Bikman is the author of Why We Get Sick and How Not To Get Sick.

View Details
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Health Programs Lead, Heart & Metabolic

Dr. Natasha Milinkovic is part of the clinical product team at SiPhox Health, having graduated from the University of Bristol Medical School. Her medical career includes rotations across medical and surgical specialties, with specialized research in vascular surgery, focusing on recovery and post-operative pain outcomes. Dr. Milinkovic built her expertise in emergency medicine as a clinical fellow at a major trauma center before practicing at a central London teaching hospital throughout the pandemic.

She has contributed to global health initiatives, implementing surgical safety standards and protocols across rural Uganda. Dr. Milinkovic initially joined SiPhox Health to spearhead the health coaching initiative and has been a key contributor in the development and launch of the Heart and Metabolic program. She is passionate about addressing health disparities by building scalable healthcare solutions.

View Details
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Health Programs Lead, Health Innovation

Dr. Tsogbayar leverages her clinical expertise to develop innovative health solutions and evidence-based coaching. Dr. Tsogbayar previously practiced as a physician with a comprehensive training background, developing specialized expertise in cardiology and emergency medicine after gaining experience in primary care, allergy & immunology, internal medicine, and general surgery.

She earned her medical degree from Imperial College London, where she also completed her MSc in Human Molecular Genetics after obtaining a BSc in Biochemistry from Queen Mary University of London. Her academic research includes significant work in developmental cardiovascular genetics, with her thesis publication contributing to the understanding of genetic modifications on embryonic cardiovascular development.

View Details
Pavel Korecky, MD

Pavel Korecky, MD

Director of Clinical Product Operations

Director of Clinical Product Operations at SiPhox Health with a background in medicine and a passion for health optimization. Experienced in leading software and clinical development teams, contributing to patents, launching health-related products, and turning diagnostics into actionable tools.

View Details
Paul Thompson, MD

Paul Thompson, MD

Advisor

Paul D. Thompson is Chief of Cardiology Emeritus of Hartford Hospital and Professor Emeritus at University of Connecticut Medical School. He has authored over 500 scientific articles on cardiovascular risk factors, the effects of exercise, and beyond. He received National Institutes of Health’s (NIH) Preventive Cardiology Academic Award, and has received NIH funding for multiple studies.

Dr. Thompson’s interests in exercise, general cardiology and sports cardiology originated from his own distance running: he qualified for the 1972 Olympic Marathon Trials as a 3rd year medical student and finished 16th in the 1976 Boston Marathon. Dr. Thompson publishes a blog 500 Rules of Cardiology where he shares lessons and anecdotes that he has learned over his extensive career as a physician, researcher and teacher.

View Details
Robert Lufkin, MD

Robert Lufkin, MD

Advisor

Physician/medical school professor (UCLA and USC) and New York Times bestselling author empowering people to take back their metabolic health with lifestyle and other tools. A veteran of the Today Show, USA Today, and a regular contributor to FOX and other network news stations, his weekly video podcast reaches over 500,000 people. After reversing chronic disease and transforming his own life he is making it his mission to help others do the same.

His latest book, ‘Lies I Taught In Medical School’ is an instant New York Times bestseller and has re-framed how we think about metabolic health and longevity. In addition to being a practicing physician, he is author of over 200 peer reviewed scientific papers and 14 books that are available in fourteen languages.

View Details
Ben Bikman, PhD

Ben Bikman, PhD

Advisor

Benjamin Bikman earned his Ph.D. in Bioenergetics and was a postdoctoral fellow with the Duke-National University of Singapore in metabolic disorders. Currently, his professional focus as a scientist and professor (Brigham Young University) is to better understand the role of elevated insulin and nutrient metabolism in regulating obesity, diabetes, and dementia.

In addition to his academic pursuits, Dr. Bikman is the author of Why We Get Sick and How Not To Get Sick.

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Tash Milinkovic, MD

Tash Milinkovic, MD

Health Programs Lead, Heart & Metabolic

Dr. Natasha Milinkovic is part of the clinical product team at SiPhox Health, having graduated from the University of Bristol Medical School. Her medical career includes rotations across medical and surgical specialties, with specialized research in vascular surgery, focusing on recovery and post-operative pain outcomes. Dr. Milinkovic built her expertise in emergency medicine as a clinical fellow at a major trauma center before practicing at a central London teaching hospital throughout the pandemic.

She has contributed to global health initiatives, implementing surgical safety standards and protocols across rural Uganda. Dr. Milinkovic initially joined SiPhox Health to spearhead the health coaching initiative and has been a key contributor in the development and launch of the Heart and Metabolic program. She is passionate about addressing health disparities by building scalable healthcare solutions.

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