With the help from dermatologist David Li, CEO and founder of Boston Derm Advocate, we explore the causes of back acne - starting from the factors out of your control to those that you can manage.

Apr 25, 2025 · Back acne, or backne, occurs when dead skin cells and oil from the sebaceous glands block pores, causing inflammation. It can be harder to see and reach acne on the back to treat it.

Jun 18, 2024 · 'Back acne tends to occur thanks to the sweat that builds up between the skin and your clothes, which can awaken acne-causing bacteria,' explains Dr Murad. More on this later but regularly...

Nov 2, 2025 · Back acne forms when pores become clogged with oil, bacteria, and dead skin cells. You can use OTC treatments to help clear mild to moderate back acne within 6-8 weeks.

Additionally, there are many factors that can cause acne on the back. Bacne causes can be: Wearing backpacks, sports equipment and sweaty clothing/shirts that rub or irritate affected areas of the skin …

Dec 8, 2025 · Back acne (sometimes referred to as "bacne") is a common condition that develops when dead skin cells, oil, and bacteria become trapped in the skin's pores. 1 Such factors as wearing tight …

Feb 20, 2025 · What causes back acne in females? Back acne in females is often linked to hormonal fluctuations that increase oil production, such as during menstrual cycles, pregnancy, or times of stress.