Body acne is an issue for many people. However, there are things you might do to get rid of them once and for all.

I want to say to anybody having acne: “EMBRACE YOURSELF. YOU ARE BEAUTIFUL AND ACNE IS JUST A CONDITION! NOTHING ELSE.”

Here are tips on how to get rid of body acne. Stay positive!

1. Don’t let sweat sit on your skin, take a shower.

Workouts help anyone with acne a lot, considering the fact that you expel toxins via sweat as well. But the one mistake that can exacerbate body or back acne is letting the sweat sit on the skin. Shower off the sweat and grime as soon as you can, and remember to give your workout clothes a good wash as well.

2. Make exfoliation a part of your body’s skincare.

A gentle exfoliating scrub with salicylic acid can help deep clean your skin and wash off sweat, dirt, and anything that is clogging pores and causing even more acne. Plus, exfoliation sloughs off dead skin cells too, renewing skin in the process.

3. Switch to breathable fabrics and loose fits.

Tight-fitting clothes can further irritate your skin by rubbing against your pores and also trapping sweat and grime against the skin. Try wearing loose-fitting clothes and choose natural fabrics over synthetic ones to give your skin more breathing room.

4. Keep your long hair off your back.

Long hair on your back can also add dirt and grime to your back, prompting painful acne on the shoulders and back. If you are wearing a backless blouse or dress, it’s a good idea to keep your hair off your back. Also, don’t let shampoos and conditioners run down your back when you shower because these can clog pores as well.

5. Choose skincare products based on the ingredients.

You may love a skincare brand’s packaging, ease of availability, or even the scent, but when it comes to acne-prone skin, you need to be looking at the labels for ingredients. Other than salicylic acid, which we have already mentioned, products with tea tree oil, white willow bark, and more can aid in reducing acne.

6. Make sure you stay hydrated at all times.

One way to help your body fight acne is to increase your water intake. This not only keeps your skin hydrated and helps you avoid excess oil production, but it can also support immune function. This, in turn, helps the body flush out certain bacteria that are thought to cause acne.

7. Eat more anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant foods.

Since acne is closely linked to inflammation, one of the simplest ways to tackle it is by adding anti-inflammatory foods to your diet. Berries, certain nuts, whole grains, and beans help reduce inflammation in the body and thus can reduce acne. Here’s a complete anti-inflammatory food list.

8. Do not pop, pick, or scratch the zits.

Popping a zit is not a way to cure it faster, and might just leave you with sores, scars, and even an infection. Resist the urge to scratch and pop the zits on your body. In case the itching is bad, visit a dermatologist to get a topical spray or ointment for better and faster healing.

9. Remember to use non-comedogenic sun protection.

The sun may be good for your health, given it helps your body make vitamin D, but prolonged exposure for your acne-prone skin will only lead to more inflammation. Invest in a good sunscreen and make sure it’s non-comedogenic (something that does not clog pores) and that is oil-free too.

10. Make zinc and low GI foods part of your diet.

Research shows that zinc-rich foods can reduce acne-related inflammation and also help your skin produce just the right amount of oil and sebum. Foods like spinach, pumpkin seeds, oysters, and wheat germ are natural sources of zinc. Foods with a low glycemic index (GI) also help in reducing acne, so add fresh fruit and vegetables to your diet.

Bonus: tips from celebrities

Body acne can be just as frustrating as facial acne, but the good news is there are several effective ways to manage and prevent it. Here are four tips to help get rid of body acne:

1. Shower After Sweating or Exercise

After sweating, it’s essential to shower as soon as possible. Sweat can clog pores and lead to body acne, especially if you leave it on your skin for long periods. Using a gentle body wash with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide can help clear up acne and prevent new breakouts.

2. Exfoliate Regularly

Exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells, which can clog pores and cause acne. Use a gentle body scrub or an exfoliating brush to slough off dead skin a few times a week. Look for products that contain ingredients like salicylic acid or glycolic acid, which help fight acne and promote skin turnover.

3. Wear Loose-Fitting Clothing

Tight clothing can trap sweat and bacteria against your skin, leading to body acne, especially on the back, chest, and shoulders. Opt for loose-fitting clothes made of breathable fabrics like cotton. Avoid wearing tight clothes for long periods, especially if you’re working out or in a hot environment.

4. Use Non-Comedogenic Body Products

Some lotions, sunscreens, and body moisturizers contain oils or ingredients that can clog your pores. Choose non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores) body products, which are often labeled as such. Also, if you’re prone to acne, be mindful of any products you use that may trigger breakouts.