About Chest and Back Acne
Back and chest acne, better known as body acne, is an expanded form of the acne that develops on the face. Acne is a low-grade bacterial infection, of the type propionibacterium acnes, that occurs in hair follicles that have become clogged with hair, sebum and keratinocytes. The chest and back, like the face, contain a large amount of sebaceous glands, allowing for more clogging possibilities in these areas.
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Features
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Chest and back acne can be caused by a number of problems. Most commonly, acne is a result of increased androgen hormones in the body that affect the size of the sebaceous glands and cause them to produce excess sebum. Acne can have a hereditary element; some people are genetically predisposed to developing chest and back acne no matter what methods they use for prevention. Another reason a person might develop acne is that it has appeared as a symptom to a more serious underlying condition, such as ovarian tumors, diabetes, polycystic ovary syndrome, adrenal hyperplasia and others.
Types
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The most common form of chest and back acne is acne vulgaris, which manifests itself in adolescents and sometimes adults as a result of hormone levels, sebaceous gland problems and the use of comedogenic cosmetics on the skin. People with acne can develop several types of skin lesions aside from the usual closed comedo, or whitehead, and blackheads. Papules can appear as small, inflamed pink bumps or as pus-filled bumps called "pustules." Bigger acne lesions can develop in the form of large, painful nodules and pus-filled cysts that often leave scars.
Prevention/Solution
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Because of the variety of potential causes, chest and back acne should be examined by a dermatologist. The treatment of underlying conditions can improve the appearance of acne. People with acne that is caused by hormonal changes, such as puberty, pregnancy and the discontinued use of birth control pills, may decide to have their acne treated with antibiotics or Accutane, a drug that has shown to be effective in curing many forms of acne. More mild acne treatment regimens involve the use of topical creams, the removal of skin irritants from products and clothing, and an increased water intake.
Misconceptions
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Contrary to popular belief, there is no conclusive evidence as to whether diet affects the development of chest and back acne. Often, people will avoid chocolate and sugary foods in an attempt to cure acne, to little avail. Acne comes from overworked pilosebaceous units, which can be affected by many problems not associated with anything that can be blamed on a person. Acne is not contagious.
Effects
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Most people consider back and chest acne to be embarrassing and unsightly, and may unfairly judge others as unclean or ugly because they have developed acne. Though it is a common, often normal bodily symptom that in no way affects one's physical health, many people will go to extremes to cure or cover their acne. These home treatments often cause acne to worsen and skin damage to occur, and may lead to longer breakout periods.
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