Causes of Acne on the Arms & Back

Most people associate acne with blemishes that appear on the face, but it can appear on other areas of the body as well. The arms and back are especially susceptible, making it uncomfortable to wear tank tops or strapless or backless attire. While treatments are available for body acne, it's important to note the causes of the condition so you can eliminate your personal acne flare-up triggers.

Sweat

Sweat can cause acne breakouts on your body, especially if you don't shower right away after exercise. While sweating in general is good for the skin because it opens the pores, it can irritate current acne and leave the pores open to bacteria.

Sebaceous Glands

Areas like the back, neck and arms contain more sebaceous glands than the rest of the body--other than the face, that is. Where there are more sebaceous glands, there is more oil and a greater likelihood of the hair follicles becoming plugged with dead skin cells, forming acne and irritation.

Friction

Friction is another major cause of acne of the back and arms. Excessive rubbing on the skin can make current acne worse and cause new breakouts. Wearing anything that's too confining, like a tight shirt, backpack or purse strap, can create irritation, and potentially, acne.

Androgens

Androgens are a type of hormone that can cause acne, including that which appears on the arms and back. These male hormones can make the sebaceous glands larger and produce more oil than normal, leading to plugged follicles.

Estrogens

Another hormone called estrogen can also have an affect on acne. When a women has her period, her estrogen levels fluctuate, which can cause acne to flare up. Going on birth control pills can sometimes help these breakouts, but for others it worsens the problem.