How to Heal Acne on the Back of Arms
Most acne products on the market focus on facial acne, but having body acne can be just as devastating. Instead of going to the beach and playing in the waves, you end up camped out on your blanket, sweating in a long-sleeved t-shirt. Acne occurs when oil and dead skin get trapped in your hair follicles, or pores, so every place on your body where hair grows is susceptible to acne. There are many ways you can alter your skin-care routine to make sure your arms are clear and acne-free.
Things You'll Need
- Medicated acne cleanser
- Loofah or body brush
- Oil-free or medicated lotion
- Loose-fitting shirts
- Medicated body pads
- Oil-free sunscreen
Instructions
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Pick up a cleanser from your local drugstore that contains salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide. Because the skin on your arms has fewer oil glands than the skin on your face, you should be able to clear up your acne with a mild salicylic acid formula. If you don't see results after a few weeks of use, try a benzoyl peroxide formula (be aware, however, that you're more likely to experience drying of the skin using a benzoyl peroxide product).
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Use a loofah or body brush with your medicated cleanser to help exfoliate dead skin and dirt from the problem areas on your arms, but don't scrub too hard---that can irritate your skin and cause more breakouts.
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Shampoo and conditioner can drip down and build up in your pores after you wash your hair, so wash your breakout-prone areas on your arms before you get out of the shower.
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Your acne may be caused by an imbalance in your skin's moisture levels. Look for oil-free lotions at your local drugstore and use them after your shower or bath. Consider trying a lotion that contains salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide. This is an effective, easy way to continuously fight breakouts.
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Don't wear shirts that could irritate the affected area. This includes shirts with sleeves that may rub your skin throughout the day, garments that have lace sleeves that could be rough against your skin, and tight-fitting long sleeves.
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While working out, wear loose-fitting clothing and shower immediately afterward. Sweat is packed with acne-causing bacteria---allowing it to dry on your skin can create a breeding ground for pimples. If you don't have time to hit the showers right away, use medicated body pads that contain salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide to wipe down your arms.
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Always wear sunscreen if you're going to be outside. Make sure the sunscreen is oil-free so it won't clog your pores. Protecting your skin from the sun will ensure its moisture stays in balance and won't get irritated or burned by the sun.
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Wash your bed linens frequently. Dirt and oil can build up on your sheets and then get into your pores as you toss and turn at night.
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Tips & Warnings
Your breakouts may be part of an allergic reaction to your laundry detergent. If you aren't seeing results after a few weeks of following the above steps, consider switching to a different laundry detergent.
