Chest acne is a thing, and this is how to get rid of it
When it comes to breakouts on the face, we are inundated with information on how to tackle them. From face masks to cleansers, there is an array of products aimed at helping clear up the skin on our faces. In more recent years, breakouts on other areas of the body have also been hot topic. Everything from bacne (that’s back acne) to brow breakouts have been normalised through discussion and expert insights.
However, one area has been massively neglected when it comes to discussion of body breakouts, and it affects more people than you might realise. In fact, according to statistics from the NHS, chest acne affects 15% of those with acne.
And while in the winter it is normal for our chests to be covered up with thick knits and high-neck tops, come summer, chest breakouts can be exacerbated by hot weather and often prove difficult to ignore.
The good news is that just like on other areas of body, chest acne can be managed and precautions can be taken to minimise its severity. To help lift the lid on exactly why some of us get chest acne and what to do about it, we reached out to acne expert Dr Anjali Mahto, consultant dermatologist at 55 Harley Street and this is what she had to say.
What is chest acne?
Essentially, chest acne is the term used to describe widespread or long-lasting breakouts on the chest area, and it works just like any other types of acne. “Acne is a disorder of the pilosebaceous unit of the skin,” says Dr Mahto. “This consists of a hair follicle and its associated sebaceous or oil gland. Blockage or inflammation of the pilosebaceous units will result in acne. Oil glands are found in highest density on the face, back and chest so these are the commonest sites of acne development,” she adds.
What causes chest acne?
If you have chest acne, the cause could be totally hormonal or natural. “The skin on the chest has more oil glands compared to other areas of the body,” says Dr Mahto. However, during the summer months certain environmental factors can worsen things. “We are exposed to heat and sweat which can lead to breakouts, especially on the chest. Sweat can lead to clogged pores and a build-up of a type of bacteria that can cause acne,” she adds.
As with acne on the face, if acne on the chest is left untreated, it can result in scarring and pigmentation, “so it’s best to treat it as soon as possible to avoid further problems,” says Dr Mahto. The good news is, often simple measures can be taken to help get a hold of any chest breakouts.
5 ways to clear up your chest acne
Dr Mahto’s five top tips on how to prevent and treat chest acne at home…
Prevention is always better than cure, so I advise showering regularly to remove any sweat, firt and oil from your chest, especially if you’ve been in a hot, humid and sweaty environment.
If your chest acne persists, switch to shower gels and body washes containing helpful ingredients such as salicylic acid, glycolic acid or tea tree oil. However, recurrent, ongoing, painful, deep spots or scarring should prompt medical attention as you may need stronger treatment.
Occlusive clothing (like those worn to work out in) can also lead to breakouts. If you’ve exercised, it’s best to shower immediately. Sitting around in a sweaty gym kit for half an hour isn’t the best idea if you’re prone to spots.
If you can’t wash and shower straight after working out, consider using a micellar water to wipe down your face, back and chest as an interim measure until you get home.
Remember, you can use products containing salicylic acid to wash the chest as well as the face! There is no reason why an acne ‘face wash’ can’t be used on the chest.
Here are the best body products to help prevent (and treat) chest acne…
Exfoliating pads
Medik8 Blemish Control Pads, £27, Look Fantastic
These handy pads are soaked in salicylic acid, allantoin and glycerin and can be wiped over the chest area to unclog pores, smooth skin and deliver hydration to combat dryness.
Micellar water
Garnier Micellar Water Facial Cleanser, £7.99, Boots
Pop a bottle of micellar water into your gym bag so that you can wipe down the chest area straight after working out. It will help avoid any build-up of bacteria until you jump into the shower.
Face wash
The Inkey List Salicylic Acid Cleanser, £10.99, Look Fantastic
If you also experience oiliness and breakouts on your face, this salicylic acid face wash can be used to help keep acne in check on the face and can also be brought down to the chest for daily exfoliation.
Body wash
CeraVe Smoothing Cleanser, £12, Look Fantastic
This particular cleanser contains salicylic acid to help unclog pores and gentle exfoliate without upsetting the skin or drying it out.
Body lotion
Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Body Spot Exfoliant, £31, Cult Beauty
If you find that putting on your body moisturiser only worsens your chest breakouts, this lotion contains salicylic acid to encourage gentle exfoliation while still delivering necessary hydration.
Body spray
Murad Clarifying Body Spray, £38, Look Fantastic
If you find that your salicylic acid body wash isn’t enough, this body spray can be misted onto dry skin after showering for more targeted treatment.
