Acne on the back and shoulders, often called body acne or bacne, happens when hair follicles get blocked. This leads to pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, or even painful cysts in those areas.[4][5][6]
The main cause starts with too much oil from sebaceous glands mixing with dead skin cells. These stick together inside the follicles, especially from overproduction of keratin, a protein in skin.[3][6] Bacteria then grow in the clogged spots, sparking inflammation and breakouts.[4][5]
Sweat plays a big role on the back and shoulders. It mixes with body oil and traps dirt, making clogs worse after workouts or hot days.[2] Tight clothes or backpacks rub the skin, adding friction that irritates pores and spreads oil.[2]
Hormones can ramp up oil production too. Androgens, like male hormones, boost sebum even in women, leading to flares on the body.[1][4] This ties into conditions like PCOS or changes from birth control, pregnancy, or menstrual cycles.[1][5]
Diet might contribute for some people. Foods high in dairy or sugar, such as whey protein, sodas, or sweets, can trigger more oil and inflammation.[1]
Stress and poor sleep raise hormones that increase oil, while overwashing strips skin protection and prompts more sebum to replace it.[1]
Keeping the area clean with gentle washes helps, but the root is those clogged follicles fueled by oil, sweat, and daily habits.[2][5]
Sources
https://www.tuftsmedicine.org/about-us/news/acne-over-30
https://www.apollopharmacy.in/health-queries/DOX0244/i-have-pimples-my-back-and-shoulders
https://www.nraestheticsandskin.co.uk/acne/
https://herndondermatology.com/services/acne-care
https://www.commonspirit.org/conditions-treatments/acne
https://www.ortho-dermatologics.com/conditions/featured-conditions/acne-vulgaris/
