Use Natural Remedies to Treat Back Acne

Acne is an annoying and even frustrating condition which affects many people. It can appear on any part of the body that has sebaceous glands, but the most common ones are the face, chest and back.

Back acne is caused by sebum and dead skin cells that plug up the hair follicles, but also by stress, an unhealthy diet, certain medications or working in a dirty environment. Fortunately, there are many chemical-free remedies that can unclog pores, reduce inflammation, kill off bacteria and prevent further outbreaks of acne.

• Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil has anti-inflammatory, antifungal and antibacterial properties which make it very useful in reducing inflammation, killing bacteria and drying up clogged pores. Prepare a toner diluting tea tree essential oil with sweet almond oil, jojoba oil or coconut oil. Use 5-10 drops for 30 ml of tea tree oil. You can also mix it with water, witch hazel and aloe vera gel if you do not want to put carrier oil on your back. Use a cotton ball and apply the solution to the affected skin and let it dry. Use three times a day and even add some in your shower gel.

• Oatmeal

Oatmeal reduces inflammation of the pores and heals painful lumps. Oatmeal has moisturizing, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties, being effective in treating many inflammatory skin conditions. Add a few handfuls of oatmeal into a sock and place it under the faucet making sure that the water runs through it while you fill your bath.  Soak in for almost 20 minutes a few times a week. It will remove dead cells, excess sebum, reduce inflammation and leave your skin smooth and moisturized.

• Sugar Scrub

Sugar scrub removes excess sebum and dead skin cells, loosens grime and prevents further infection. Mix one-quarter cup of brown sugar with one tablespoon of raw honey and the juice of half a lemon.  Apply the thick paste on the affected area and rub in circular motions. Leave it for 5 minutes, then rinse with warm water. Repeat two times a week.

• Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV)

Apple cider vinegar is an efficient exfoliating agent, and its acidic content helps remove dead skin cells and unplug pores.  Mix equal parts of apple cider vinegar and water and apply the solution with a cotton ball to the affected area.

• Baking Soda

Baking soda not only reduces redness thanks to its antibacterial compounds, but it also works as an exfoliator due to its fine grainy texture. Mix water with baking soda until you get a thick paste and apply it to the pustules on your back. Leave it for 15 minutes then rinse off. Use this remedy on a daily basis.

You can also make an exfoliating paste by adding some lemon juice. Mix two spoonful of baking soda, with one tablespoon of lemon juice and two tablespoons of water. Apply the paste on the affected areas and let it sit for 10 minutes. Rinse with water and pat dry.

• Aloe Vera

Aloe vera has moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties, soothing and protecting irritated skin. You can use pure aloe vera gel and apply it directly on your back, or you can add some tea tree oil to boost its effectiveness.

These are only some of the natural remedies that you can try to get rid of back acne. Try them all and see which one works best for you.