Chest Acne Treatment

Chest acne is a common skin condition caused by dead skin cells and sebum clogging pores on the chest, leading to breakouts, pimples, and inflammation that can result in scars. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, acne is the most common skin condition in the United States, affecting up to 50 million Americans each year. It can appear on various parts of the body, including the face, chest, back, and buttocks, and can take many forms, such as blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, and cysts. Chest acne breakouts can be frustrating, especially with the large number of over-the-counter treatments. Luckily, many effective options are offered at Dr. Michele Green’s private dermatology office to treat active breakouts and prevent new pimples and scars. When you consult with board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green about chest acne, she will work with you to identify the underlying causes and create a personalized treatment plan suited to your skin’s needs.

Many common causes of chest acne include genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors. For some patients, preventing and treating chest acne can be as simple as making small lifestyle changes, such as switching laundry detergents, staying hydrated, showering regularly, and reducing sugar and carbohydrate intake. Other patients might need to use effective skincare products with active ingredients like benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid. Dr. Green can recommend topical lotions, creams, moisturizers, and sunscreens from her proprietary MGSKINLABs to keep your skin clean, clear, and hydrated. Along with your personalized skincare routine, Dr. Green may prescribe topical and oral medications or suggest in-office treatments for chest acne, including HydraFacials, surgery, or laser therapy.

Dr. Michele Green is a globally recognized, board-certified cosmetic Dr. Michele Green is a globally recognized, board-certified cosmetic dermatologist with over 25 years of experience. She provides some of the most discerning men and women worldwide with top non-invasive treatments for acne and scars. Dr. Green is consistently named one of the best dermatologists by New York Magazine, Castle Connolly, Super Doctors, and The New York Times, thanks to her dedication and skill. At her private dermatology practice on Manhattan’s Upper East Side, she utilizes advanced technology and innovative techniques to deliver natural-looking, long-lasting results that help her patients look and feel their best. As an expert in both medical and cosmetic dermatology, Dr. Green develops personalized treatment plans for chest acne, combining topical and oral medications, skincare products, and in-office procedures to help you achieve and maintain a clear, healthy complexion.

What is Chest Acne?

Chest acne includes pimples, blackheads, and other skin lesions on the chest. It is a common condition that can cause inflammation, irritation, and discomfort. Causes of chest acne include clogged pores from excess oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria that block pores. Hormonal fluctuations, such as changes in testosterone and estrogen, can also increase oil production and raise the risk of acne. Unlike facial acne, chest acne can also be triggered by tight clothing and friction. Some people are more prone to it due to genetics. Treatment often involves a mix of topical and oral medications, lifestyle adjustments, and cosmetic procedures. For the best results, it’s advisable to consult a board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Green, to create a personalized treatment plan and achieve your aesthetic goals.

What are the different types of acne?

Chest acne can include various types of lesions, which fall into two main categories: non-inflammatory and inflammatory. Comedones, such as blackheads and whiteheads, are non-inflammatory acne. Papules, pustules, cysts, and nodules are inflammatory forms of acne. Inflammatory nodular and cystic acne are most linked to the formation of scars, as the inflammation from these types can cause lasting damage to the underlying skin tissue. Recognizing which types of acne are present is crucial for creating an effective treatment plan, since different types of acne respond to different treatments.

Open Comedones (Blackheads): Blackheads form when oil, dead skin cells, and other debris clog the hair follicle. They are open comedones, meaning the pore remains open to the environment. They appear black due to a reaction between the sebum in the pore and the air.

Closed Comedones (Whiteheads): Whiteheads, also known as closed comedones, develop when pores or hair follicles become clogged with dirt, debris, and sebum. The trapped debris under the skin causes the lesions to appear as a white or skin-colored bump.

Papules: Papules are inflammatory acne that show up as red bumps on the skin’s surface. They may be painful or irritated, but unlike pustules, they do not have a pus-filled tip.

Pustules: Pustules, often called pimples, are another form of inflammatory acne. However, unlike papules, pustules contain pus caused by an accumulation of white blood cells in the area. The pus often makes pustules appear white or yellow.

Nodules: Nodules develop when a clogged hair follicle gets infected with bacteria. They may form deeper in the tissue, leading to a hard, red bump on the skin’s surface that is often painful.

Cysts: Cystic acne occurs when pus-filled pimples are infected with bacteria. Cysts also form deeper under the skin and will appear as a red bump on the surface, causing pain and discomfort.

Why is my chest acne so bad?

Any type of acne, including chest acne, occurs when the skin’s pilosebaceous units become clogged with a buildup of sebum, dead skin cells, and debris, causing inflammation and irritation. The pilosebaceous unit consists of the hair shaft, hair follicle, and sebaceous gland. The sebaceous gland produces sebum, a natural oil that helps protect and hydrate the skin. When the gland produces excess oil, the pores can become clogged, leading to acne. Several factors can increase the risk of developing chest acne, including some that are genetic or biological. A list of common contributing factors is as follows:

Genetics — Some patients are genetically predisposed to excess sebum production and oily skin. Often, these patients also have a family history of acne or chest acne.

Hormones — Hormone fluctuations can disrupt many body systems, including the skin. Changes in androgen hormones can cause the oil glands to produce more sebum, which can clog pores and increase the risk of acne. These hormone fluctuations can occur at various times in life, such as during puberty, the days leading up to menstruation, and during pregnancy.

Stress — Stress can also cause fluctuations in androgen hormones, leading to increased oil production. This oil can clog pores and lead to more frequent acne breakouts.

Diet — Research indicates that eating certain foods can cause acne outbreaks. Specifically, diets high in carbohydrates and dairy are linked to acne. Consuming large amounts of sugar can cause blood sugar spikes, which may lead to acne in areas like the chest.

Sun exposure — Many people believe that exposure to the sun can help with acne, but actually, it can have the opposite effect. The heat and energy from the sun can dry out the skin. When your skin becomes dry, your body increases sebum production to compensate, which can lead to excess oil clogging pores. Additionally, dead, dry skin can worsen clogged pores, causing acne outbreaks.

Laundry Detergent — Keeping your clothing clean is crucial in helping to prevent acne outbreaks. However, if you’re experiencing chest acne outbreaks even when your clothing is clean and dry, the dye or scented laundry detergent you use might be irritating your skin. In that case, it’s best to choose a detergent labeled “hypoallergenic.”

Medications — Certain prescription medications, including corticosteroids, testosterone, and lithium, can lead to an increase in acne outbreaks. If this occurs, consult your doctor to find safe and effective alternatives that do not cause acne breakouts. It is important to disclose all medications you are taking when seeking chest acne treatment with Dr. Green.

When you consult with board-certified When you consult with board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green about chest acne breakouts, she will work with you to identify the underlying causes and create an appropriate treatment plan that best fits your skin condition.

Why do I suddenly get chest acne?

If your chest acne suddenly appears, it might be caused by external factors such as wearing tight clothing, excessive sweating, or sensitivity to certain laundry detergents. If you tend to break out more often in the chest area during summer, it may be due to heat-induced sweat, which can clog pores and cause breakouts and inflammation. When dealing with clogged pores caused by sebum and sweat, it’s best to follow a proper skincare routine that cleans and exfoliates the affected areas. It is recommended to use an antibacterial cleanser along with beta-hydroxy acids (BHA) like salicylic acid to deeply penetrate the pores and dissolve oil, removing dead skin cells. Overall, when managing acne on any part of the body, it’s best to seek medical advice from a board-certified dermatologist to reach your skin goals.

Will my chest acne go away?

Yes! Chest acne will go away when treated with the right methods. It’s best to start treatment as soon as the acne first appears to prevent scars that are harder to treat later. Depending on the cause of the chest acne, it may clear up on its own. Many people who develop acne during puberty stop breaking out once their hormone levels level out in adulthood. Also, simple lifestyle changes can help reduce chest acne if environmental factors and poor hygiene play a role. For example, patients who wear tight clothing often or don’t shower after exercising can improve their skin by changing these habits. If chest acne is related to genetics, hormone changes, or other underlying factors, medical treatment may be needed. To avoid scarring, it’s best to see an experienced dermatologist as soon as you notice a breakout. Dr. Michele Green, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City, has over 25 years of experience helping patients worldwide find the best treatments. She is especially dedicated to helping those with acne-prone skin achieve and maintain clear, healthy skin.

What do I do to get rid of chest acne?

There are many potential solutions for treating There are many potential ways to treat chest acne and attain clearer skin. It can be overwhelming to sort through all the treatment options and the variety of over-the-counter products aimed at acne. If you have chest acne, it’s best to see an experienced, board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Michele Green in New York City. Dr. Green has more than 25 years of experience managing acne breakouts and scars. During your first consultation, she will collect a detailed medical and family history and examine your skin. She might order blood tests to find the root causes of chest acne that are contributing to your breakouts. As a specialist in cosmetic and medical dermatology, Dr. Green will develop a customized treatment plan for chest acne, combining a mix of topical and oral medications, skincare products, and in-office procedures to help you achieve and keep a clear, healthy complexion.

In-office procedures to improve chest acne

Acne Surgery

Acne surgery is a traditional method for removing certain Acne surgery is a traditional method for removing certain acne breakouts and cysts. It involves opening the pores and extracting all dead skin cells, excess oil, debris, and other impurities trapped inside the acne lesion. After opening the lesions, cortisone is injected to reduce inflammation, speed healing, and help prevent acne scars. Acne surgery is most effective when combined with prescription treatments and antibiotics to decrease the bacteria that cause acne. It is especially useful for treating cystic acne on the chest, as it helps prevent scars from forming. If the cysts are very large, they may need to be drained before the cortisone is injected.

HydraFacial

The HydraFacial is a medical-grade hydra dermabrasion treatment that gently cleans, exfoliates, and nourishes the skin. The procedure was developed using proprietary vortex technology, which effectively removes sebum, dead skin cells, and debris trapped in the pores that can cause acne. The first step involves cleansing the skin and applying a chemical peel that contains glycolic and salicylic acids to soften debris. Next, built-up debris trapped in the pores is extracted, and the skin is exfoliated. After cleansing and exfoliating, antioxidants, vitamins, and peptides are infused into the skin to support its natural protective barrier. A HydraFacial can also be combined with LED light therapy and specially formulated boosters. A red LED light helps reduce redness and inflammation associated with acne, while a blue LED light targets and eliminates acne-causing bacteria on the skin’s surface. Boosters are applied after cleansing and exfoliating to deliver targeted active ingredients. Infusing a serum booster can help treat various skin conditions, including acne, redness, dullness, and signs of aging. HydraFacial treatments can also be performed on other areas of the body where acne often appears, such as the chest and back.

How to clear body acne with topical and oral medications

Topical prescription medications to treat chest acne

The most common topical antibiotics for acne are erythromycin and clindamycin, which help reduce bacteria that cause acne on the skin’s surface. Dapsone or Aczone is another popular topical gel that targets bacteria responsible for chest acne. Retinoids, such as tretinoin or Retin-A, are vitamin A derivatives that enhance skin cell turnover, shedding dead skin cells to reveal new, healthy cells underneath. Retinoids also prevent impurities from clogging pores and help lower sebum production. Differin gel, also known as adapalene, is a prescription-strength retinoid that helps prevent acne breakouts and evens out skin tone and texture. Differin is a vitamin A derivative that exfoliates dead skin cells, preventing sebum and other impurities from clogging pores. When using Differin gel, patients should practice proper sun protection and wear sunscreen with an SPF of 50 or higher. Winlevi, an androgen receptor inhibitor, is a topical medication that blocks excess sebum production caused by hormones. Although it is an anti-androgen medication, Winlevi can be used by both men and women.

Oral medications for chest acne

Commonly prescribed oral antibiotics for acne include Minocycline, Tetracycline, and Doxycycline. Women who experience acne may benefit from the androgen blocker Spironolactone, which reduces androgen levels to treat hormone-related acne. Spironolactone is particularly effective for women with acne caused by PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome). Birth control pills can also help regulate hormones and decrease chest acne in women. Effective acne-fighting birth control pills typically contain a combination of estrogen (such as estradiol) and progestin (such as drospirenone). Yaz, Ortho Tri-Cyclen, and Estrostep are the only FDA-approved oral contraceptives for treating hormonal acne. Birth control pills might not be advised if you have a history of blood clots, breast cancer, or high blood pressure.

Oral isotretinoin, also known as Accutane, offers a permanent solution for moderate to severe, persistent acne that hasn’t responded to other topical or oral treatments. Accutane is usually taken for about 20 weeks, though the length can vary depending on the patient’s response and the severity of breakouts. After finishing a course of Accutane, approximately 95% of patients do not experience new breakouts. The remaining 5% might need a second course to clear their acne. Common side effects include dry lips, skin, and eyes. While using Accutane, patients must avoid alcohol and limit dietary fats. Monthly visits and blood tests are necessary before a dermatologist can prescribe Accutane. Most importantly, Accutane can cause serious birth defects during pregnancy. Any patient who can become pregnant must have monthly pregnancy tests and use two methods of birth control or practice abstinence during treatment.

Which Skin Care Products are Best for Treating Chest Acne?

People struggling with chest acne can see significant improvements by using a skincare routine with the right ingredients. Dr. Michele Green, an internationally recognized, board-certified dermatologist, has developed a line of skincare products made with effective ingredients to treat and prevent acne lesions.

Cleansers and Toners for Acne Breakouts

The Acne Kit from MGSKINLABs is a three-step system to clear skin and reduce pore visibility. The first step is gently cleaning the skin using the Pore Minimizing cleanser formulated with glycolic and salicylic acid to exfoliate and dissolve excess oil in clogged pores. The next step is to use the Retexturizing Pads, which contain glycolic and salicylic acid. The Retexturizing Pads work like an at-home peel, gently softening and removing excess oil and dead skin cells that clog the pores. Lastly, the acne spot treatment, containing benzoyl peroxide, can be applied to any active acne lesion to kill acne-causing bacteria and unclog pores.

Moisturizers for Body Acne

Regardless of skin type, a moisturizer is crucial to any skincare routine, especially for those with oily or acne-prone skin. Many individuals with acne-prone skin prefer a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer that won’t block their pores. A recommended moisturizer is Dr. Green’s Ultimately Sheer Hydrating Lotion, which is a lightweight moisturizer that is formulated specifically for acne-prone skin that will not clog pores, while still providing intense moisture to the skin.

Over-The-Counter Sunscreens for Acne Pimples

Another indispensable element of a good skincare routine is sunscreen. The UV radiation from the sun can worsen acne, so protecting the skin with a non-comedogenic sunscreen is imperative to prevent acne from worsening. Dr. Green’s MGSKINLABs, Inc. offers a non-comedogenic Hydrating Sunscreen with SPF 50, which combines a moisturizer and SPF into a single product. This type of sunscreen is perfect for those who want to maintain hydrated, radiant skin while shielding against UV rays that can lead to skin cancer and premature aging. When you consult with Dr. Green, you can discuss a proper skincare routine, including which products should be part of your regimen. She will work with you to create a customized skincare protocol that incorporates the right topical medications and products to provide you with a healthy, clear, smooth complexion that lasts.

Lifestyle Changes to help improve body acne

Maintaining proper hygiene is crucial when managing body acne. Using fragrance-free, non-comedogenic products is important because you want to prevent additional clogging of your skin’s pores. If you notice breakouts after switching to a new body wash or detergent, it may be a reaction to an ingredient in the product. While lifestyle changes can help control body acne, there is also a genetic and hormonal component, so it is best to consult a dermatologist for a combination of oral, topical, or cosmetic treatments.

How to Remove Chest Acne Scars

Patients who experience inflammatory acne or cystic acne may develop acne scars on their chest, which will not resolve without treatment. An experienced and knowledgeable healthcare professional, such as board-certified dermatologist Dr. Green in NYC, selects the best acne scar treatments for each individual based on their skin type, skin tone, and the severity and different types of acne scars present. Typically, a combination approach is the most effective treatment plan to reduce the appearance of acne scars. Some popular and effective acne scar options include laser resurfacing treatments, such as Fraxel and eMatrix, VBeam laser, and Sculptra dermal filler.

The Fraxel Dual laser is a skin resurfacing treatment that addresses various skin concerns by improving uneven skin tone and texture. Dr. Green often calls the Fraxel laser the “magic eraser” because of its unique ability to target issues like fine lines and wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, acne scars, sun damage, surgical scars, stretch marks, and enlarged pores. This advanced laser uses a 1550nm wavelength to enhance the appearance of acne scars, uneven skin texture, fine lines, and pore size, while a 1927nm wavelength is used to treat sun damage and pigmentation. To treat acne scars, the fractional laser energy is delivered to the skin’s dermis in controlled, targeted micro-injuries, stimulating new collagen production. Collagen formation tightens the skin, reducing the appearance of acne scars and hyperpigmentation. Multiple sessions, spaced one month apart, are recommended for optimal improvement of chest acne scars.

The eMatrix Laser is perfect for treating acne scars on the face, chest, and back for patients of all skin tones and types. The eMatrix Sublative Rejuvenation uses fractionated bi-polar radiofrequency energy to go beneath the skin’s surface to boost collagen and elastin production. Stimulating the skin’s creation of collagen and elastin helps improve texture irregularities across all skin tones and types, making it a powerful tool against stubborn acne scars. This laser treatment allows patients to achieve smoother, brighter, tighter, and more youthful-looking skin. Patients can expect minimal downtime, with some redness lasting around 48 hours. This laser is unique in its ability to treat all skin types and tones. While other lasers may risk hyperpigmentation in darker skin tones, the eMatrix is safe and effective, making it a preferred choice for Dr. Green when treating patients with darker skin tones.

The VBeam laser is the gold standard for treating redness or red marks that stay after an acne breakout. The VBeam operates at a wavelength of 595 nanometers, which specifically targets the red pigment in skin cells while leaving the surrounding skin unaffected. One of the best features of the Vbeam treatment is its built-in Dynamic Cooling Device that cools the skin before the laser beam is emitted, making the procedure more comfortable for the patient. Additionally, Vbeam treatments involve no downtime so that you can return to normal activities immediately after. Patients typically require treatments spaced one month apart to achieve optimal results. When it comes to addressing any redness on the skin, including that caused by butt acne and folliculitis, the VBeam laser is an excellent choice.

Sculptra is a liquid dermal filler that encourages the body’s natural collagen production. It contains poly-L-lactic acid to activate collagenases in the treated area, leading to a firmer, smoother skin texture. Sculptra is highly effective for improving depressed or atrophic acne scars on the chest, temples, cheeks, jawline, and chin. Most patients require three to six sessions, spaced one month apart, to achieve the best results in reducing acne scars. The effects of Sculptra can last up to two years after the initial treatment series. Dr. Green often combines Sculptra injections with laser treatments like Fraxel, eMatrix, or Vbeam to fully diminish the appearance of depressed acne scars on the chest, giving patients a clearer, smoother complexion.

Folliculitis vs. Acne

Folliculitis and acne are often confused because they look similar. Folliculitis is an inflammation or infection of the hair follicles, usually appearing as small, red bumps or pimples. In contrast, acne vulgaris is a chronic condition that affects the pilosebaceous unit, often involving bacteria, inflammation, and various types of lesions, including nodules. Folliculitis is typically caused by infections or irritation, whereas acne results from clogged oil glands due to excess sebum or dirt. If you’re unsure whether you have folliculitis or acne, it’s best to consult a board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green in NYC, as these conditions require different treatments.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Chest Acne:

What causes chest acne?

Acne vulgaris is one of the most common skin conditions, affecting up to 50 million Americans each year. Acne does not only affect teenagers; adults in their 20s through 50s can have acne all over their bodies. It is characterized by blemishes on the skin that can appear anywhere with oil glands, including the face, stomach, back, and chest. Chest acne, also known as acne vulgaris, presents as breakouts on the chest resulting from a buildup of sebum (oil) on the skin. When excess oil mixes with debris like dead skin cells, it can clog hair follicles, resulting in swollen, irritated pimples. For some, acne is mainly influenced by genetics, while others are more prone to blemishes because of their skin’s natural oil production. Lifestyle choices, such as wearing tight clothing with excessive sweating, using scented or dyed soaps and laundry detergents, infrequent showers, dehydration, and increased sun exposure, can all contribute to developing chest acne.

Why is chest acne so hard to get rid of?

Chest acne is difficult to get rid of because of its location. One reason is friction from clothing, which can cause inflammation and boost sweat and sebum that may penetrate the skin. These factors can lead to more breakouts on the back and chest. Even though it can be frustrating, chest acne can be treated with the help of a board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Green. With over 25 years of experience in treating acne, Dr. Green can develop a routine to help you reach your skin goals.

Why is my chest acne coming back?

Your chest acne may return for various reasons, including genetics, clothing, hormonal changes, or skin irritation. Acne is a common skin issue affecting up to 50 million people in the United States each year. It usually occurs when pores become clogged, and since your chest has many oil glands, they can block those pores. Although acne can be very frustrating, it is treatable with oral medications, topical treatments, cosmetic procedures, or a combination of these. To determine the exact cause of chest breakouts, it’s best to consult a board-certified dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis.

Is chest acne hormonal?

There are many potential risk factors for developing chest acne, including fluctuations in androgen hormones. Androgens cause the enlargement and hyperactivity of sebum glands in the skin, leading to increased sebum production that can clog pores and cause pimples. Therefore, individuals experiencing puberty, pregnancy, menopause, or those taking certain medications, having an underlying medical condition, or going through different stages of the menstrual cycle, may be more prone to hormonal chest acne breakouts. Hormonal acne can include any lesion, from blackheads and whiteheads to painful cysts. These breakouts often occur on the jawline and lower face but can also appear on the chest and back. A board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Michele Green in NYC can order specific blood tests to help identify if systemic hormonal imbalances are contributing to your chest acne and recommend appropriate treatments as needed.

Which hormone imbalance causes chest acne?

Hormonal imbalances, especially involving androgens like estrogen, progesterone, or testosterone, can cause chest acne. Hormone levels shift for many reasons, with puberty and pregnancy being the most common. During these times, androgen levels vary greatly, triggering the body’s natural sebum production. Sebum is the oil produced by sebaceous glands to protect the skin, but sometimes, too much sebum is produced. When excess sebum occurs, pores clog, leading to acne. When you see Dr. Green about your chest acne, she will review your medical history and examine your skin. She may also order blood tests to check for underlying issues, such as hormonal imbalances.

Will glycolic acid help chest acne?

Glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid that can help with acne by acting as a chemical exfoliant, breaking down and removing dead skin cells, oils, and other debris that clog pores. This active ingredient can also increase the rate of skin cell turnover, encouraging the shedding of old skin to reveal healthier, more even skin underneath. When using glycolic acid, it’s best to choose gentle, fragrance-free products to reduce dryness and irritation. Additionally, this ingredient can boost photosensitivity, so applying a broad-spectrum SPF of at least 30 every day is essential. To see if glycolic acid is safe for your skincare routine, it’s advisable to consult with a board-certified dermatologist.

Will Accutane help with chest acne?

Accutane is currently the most effective treatment for acne. Also known as isotretinoin, it is a vitamin A derivative similar to retinol, but in pill form. The exact way Accutane works is not fully understood. However, it is believed to cause apoptosis, or programmed cell death, in the sebaceous glands, reduce inflammation, and kill bacteria inside the follicles. This process helps skin heal and prevents new acne from forming. In addition to causing apoptosis, Accutane also decreases sebum production and has antimicrobial effects against certain bacteria that cause acne. It also increases skin cell turnover, making it less likely for dead skin cells to form blackheads and whiteheads. Accutane must be prescribed and monitored by a board-certified dermatologist. To find out if Accutane is right for you, it’s best to consult with a board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Green.

Will shaving the chest reduce pimples?

Shaving with poor hygiene can actually worsen acne. Using a dull or old razor can cause more inflammation and introduce bacteria into the hair follicles. Inflammation around the follicles can block pores and lead to more severe pimples. When bacteria become trapped inside the follicles, cystic acne can develop. Cystic acne is more likely to cause scarring and often requires oral antibiotics. Additionally, shaving can trigger a different skin condition, folliculitis, which can be bacterial, fungal, or viral, and may arise from shaving. Using clean, sharp razors when shaving the chest is essential to prevent acne from getting worse.

Will exfoliating help with chest acne?

Skin cell turnover is a natural process where dead skin cells on the surface are shed and replaced by new ones. However, sebum can trap dead skin cells on the surface and clog pores. Exfoliating the skin helps prevent this by removing dead cells before they enter the pores. Gently exfoliating the chest area can help prevent acne breakouts. Dr. Green’s MGSKINLABS Re-texturing pads are ideal for exfoliating acne-prone skin and can help prevent breakouts by sloughing off dead cells and controlling excess oil. When exfoliating at home, avoid scrubbing the skin too hard, as this can worsen irritation. The HydraFacial is an in-office treatment that cleanses, exfoliates impurities, and nourishes the skin. HydraFacials can be used on areas where acne often appears, providing clear, hydrated skin.

Why do I have back and chest acne?

When someone develops chest acne, back acne often occurs afterward. This is usually due to friction from clothing and how long it is worn. Wearing a shirt all day causes sebum and sweat to accumulate on both the skin and the fabric. The shirt continually presses against and rubs the chest and back, which can worsen breakouts. Additionally, reaching the back while showering is often more difficult, making it easier to miss cleaning the area thoroughly. To manage back and chest acne, it’s important to maintain good hygiene and use a fragrance-free body wash to gently clean the affected skin.

Why is only my chest breaking out?

Many factors can contribute to chest acne development. The cause of body acne might be as simple as the exercise clothes you’ve been wearing—tight clothing can trap sweat and bacteria that cause acne—or a recent rise in stress, which can increase sebum production. For many people, small changes in daily routines or lifestyle habits can significantly affect the appearance of chest and back acne. Genetics, hormonal changes, and environmental factors can also influence back and chest acne. A dermatology expert, like board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green in New York City, can help identify the underlying causes of your chest breakouts and suggest the best treatment options to address acne at its source, helping you achieve and maintain a healthy, clear, and smooth complexion.

Will chest acne go away on its own?

Acne on the chest often starts during teenage years due to puberty and usually clears up in adulthood as hormone levels even out. However, some people continue to have chest acne into adulthood. If chest acne persists past adolescence, it’s best to see an experienced, board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Green. When you visit Dr. Green about your chest acne, she will work to find the root causes and develop a personalized treatment plan to help clear your skin.

How to get started with chest acne treatment today

Body acne, whether it’s a single pimple or a persistent breakout of severe acne, can be a frustrating skin condition to treat with over-the-counter treatments and skincare products. Additionally, untreated or poorly managed acne can lead to scars, which are often more difficult to treat than the original breakout. Consulting with board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green in NYC early on can help you safely and effectively address your acne before scars develop. Dr. Green will customize your treatment plan, recommending the best medications, treatments, and skincare products based on your acne type and underlying causes.

Dr. Michele Green is a board-certified dermatologist recognized internationally for her holistic approach to treating acne, body acne, and scars. She has helped discerning men and women worldwide for over twenty-five years, providing natural-looking, youthful results. She is especially dedicated to helping patients achieve clear skin free of acne breakouts. Dr. Green has developed a line of specially formulated skincare products—MGSKINLABS, Inc.—which includes topical treatments for those with acne-prone skin. She carefully investigates the root causes of acne and creates personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s needs. Her commitment and expertise are evident, as she is repeatedly recognized as one of New York’s top dermatologists by Castle Connolly, Super Doctors, and New York Magazine. To eliminate chest acne and achieve a clear, healthy, radiant complexion that lasts, contact the NYC office of Dr. Michele Green at 212-535-3088 or schedule a consultation online today.