Body acne is a condition that affects many people around the world and can cause embarrassment or discomfort.
It is characterised by breakouts of pimples and lesions on the skin, usually located on the chest, back, arms, and neck. It can range from mild, where there are only a few blemishes, to severe, where breakouts appear over much of the body.
A scientific study conducted by the World Health Organisation (WHO) in 2021 revealed that the prevalence of body acne is on the rise among the general population.
In its report, WHO estimated that body acne affects approximately 30 per cent of the population, with a slightly higher prevalence in males than females. It stated that this number is likely to increase, due to rising levels of stress, hormonal changes, poor hygiene and unhealthy diets.
Causes of Body Acne
Body acne is a common problem for many people, and the National Institute of Medical Research (NIMR) has identified several potential causes of this skin condition.
The first and most common cause of body acne is inadequate skin hygiene. Not using a gentle cleanser on skin on a regular basis can cause dirt, oil, and bacteria to build up. This can clog pores and lead to skin problems like acne. It’s important to keep skin clean and healthy in order to reduce the risk of body acne.
Hormonal changes can also lead to the development of body acne. As hormones fluctuate, especially during puberty, it can cause an increase in the production of sebum, which is a type of oil that helps protect and lubricate the skin. When sebum is produced in excess, it can clog pores and lead to body acne.
Certain medications or supplements can also lead to body acne. Changes in hormones often occur when taking prescription medications such as steroids and birth control pills, and this can trigger body acne. In addition, certain supplements such as micronutrients, omega-3 supplements, and herbal teas have been known to cause skin problems.
Finally, genetics can also contribute to body acne. Those with a family history of acne are more likely to develop it themselves, and certain skin types are more susceptible to developing body acne. Genetically predisposed people may also have an immunological response to certain bacteria on the skin, which can lead to body acne.
Understanding the potential causes of body acne can help people better manage their symptoms and even prevent it from occurring.
Tips for Clear Skin Everywhere
Getting clear, healthy skin is something many of us strive for, and it is definitely achievable when good habits are implemented. But, with so much information out there, it can be difficult to know where to start.
Natalia Spierings, a consultant dermatologist has some excellent tips for getting clear skin which she outlined in her book “Skintelligent”.
According to her, one of the first tips is to keep your skin clean. This means washing your face twice a day and using a mild soap or cleanser. He also recommends using lukewarm water on your face, and not too hot or cold. This is because hot water can strip the skin of its natural oils, while cold water can cause irritation.
Spierings also suggests using sunscreen and moisturizer regularly to protect your skin from sun damage and keep it hydrated. Sun protection should always be a priority when you’re trying to maintain a clear complexion. She recommends looking for sunscreens that contain zinc oxide or titanium oxide. Moisturizer should be used every day and should be tailored to your skin type.
Finally, Spierings advised getting enough sleep, as well as managing or reducing stress levels. Poor sleep hygiene and an excess of stress can cause hormone imbalances that manifest in your skin.
By implementing these simple tips, you can achieve clear skin everywhere. Taking care of your skin and prioritising its health is definitely worth the effort. A few simple changes in your diet and lifestyle can go a long way in improving the quality of your skin.
