Body Acne (Back & Chest): What Works & What to Avoid
- The Aeon Aesthetics
- 15 minutes ago
- 3 min read
Body acne—commonly seen on the back, chest, shoulders and upper arms—is one of the most overlooked yet persistent skin concerns. While facial acne receives most of the attention, body acne can be just as uncomfortable, confidence-impacting and difficult to treat.
At The Aeon Aesthetics in Southall, we see a wide spectrum of clients dealing with back acne (bacne) and chest acne caused by sweat, hormones, clogged pores, friction, and incorrect skincare. The good news: with the right routine and the right treatment—especially SQT Bio Microneedling for body acne—you can achieve smooth, clearer and healthier-looking skin.

What Causes Body Acne?
Body acne develops for many of the same reasons as facial acne, but the thicker skin and higher sweat activity on the torso make it more stubborn.
1. Excess Oil Production
Sebaceous glands on the back are highly active, making pores more prone to congestion.
2. Sweat & Heat
Sweat trapped under clothing creates the perfect environment for bacteria and inflammation.
3. Hormonal Fluctuations
Shifts in hormones can trigger deeper, cystic body acne.
4. Friction & Irritation
Tight clothing, backpacks, gym wear and rough fabrics can worsen breakouts (known as acne mechanica).
5. Incorrect Body Products
Body lotions or washes containing heavy oils can clog pores and invite breakouts.
Types of Body Acne

Understanding what type of body acne you have helps determine the right approach.
Whiteheads & Blackheads
Clogged pores caused by oil and dead skin.
Inflammatory Acne
Red, painful bumps often triggered by bacterial overgrowth.
Cystic Body Acne
Deep, painful acne that often leaves scars.
Body Acne Scarring & Pigmentation
Dark marks (PIH), textural scarring and patches left behind after active acne.
What actually works for body acne?
1. SQT Bio Microneedling for Back & Chest Acne (High-effectiveness, non-invasive)
One of the most transformative treatments for body acne, SQT Bio Microneedling, uses marine micro-crystals to deeply exfoliate, regenerate and unclog pores—without needles or downtime.

Why SQT works so well on the body
Penetrates deeper than traditional microneedling
Reduces acne-causing bacteria
Clears excess oil and congestion
Smooths rough texture
Fades dark marks and scarring
Helps prevent future flare-ups
Body skin is thicker than facial skin, making this treatment especially effective on the back, shoulders and chest.
Results you can expect
Reduction in breakouts within 7–10 days
Smoother, clearer skin
Less oiliness
Reduction in PIH and acne marks over time
Long-term improvement with a course of sessions
2. Medical-Grade Body Washes
Ingredients that work:
Salicylic acid (BHA)
Benzoyl peroxide
Mandelic acid
Glycolic acid
These help remove dead skin and reduce bacteria.
3. Showering Immediately After Exercise
Sweat + friction + bacteria = breakouts.Quick showers prevent pore clogging.
4. Loose, Breathable Clothing
Cotton-based fabrics help skin breathe and prevent irritation.
5. Consistent Exfoliation (But Gentle!)
Once or twice a week is enough.Avoid harsh scrubs that worsen inflammation.
What to avoid if you have body acne
1. Heavy Body Lotions & Oils
Coconut oil, mineral oil, and thick shea butter can clog pores on acne-prone areas.
2. Picking or Squeezing Spots
This leads to:
PIH
Scarring
Deeper inflammation
3. Over-Exfoliating
Too much exfoliation damages the skin barrier and increases breakouts.
4. Using the Wrong Hair Products
Shampoos and conditioners running down your back can clog pores.Use non-comedogenic, sulfate-free formulas.
5. Ignoring Sweat
Sleeping in sweaty clothes or staying in gym wear for hours worsens body acne.
When should you seek professional treatment?
Consider professional support when:
Breakouts are painful
Acne is spreading across the back or chest
You have scarring, dark marks or textured skin
Over-the-counter products aren’t working
This is where SQT Body Acne Treatment becomes your strongest option.
Clear your back & chest safely at The Aeon Aesthetics
Whether you're dealing with congested pores, teenage acne, adult hormonal acne or post-gym flare-ups, our body acne protocols are tailored for long-term clarity and confidence.
Book your body acne consultation at The Aeon Aesthetics in Southall to get a personalised plan and start clearing your skin the right way.


