Back acne, often called ‘bacne,’ is a common skin condition where acne develops on the back. It involves the same mechanisms as facial acne, including clogged pores, inflammation, and bacterial growth, leading to pimples, cysts, and sometimes severe lesions.
A study shows that approximately 48-52% of people with facial acne also experience back acne, with men being more likely to develop back acne than women.* In Singapore, back acne is becoming more common due to rising temperatures and humidity.
*Truncal acne: an overview. J Clin Med. 2022
Various factors, including excess oil production, dead skin cells, bacteria, and friction from clothing or sports equipment can cause back acne. Hormonal changes, certain medications, and genetics can also play a significant role. Additionally, lifestyle factors such as diet and hygiene can influence the occurrence of back acne.
While back acne and face acne share similar causes, they differ in their presentation and treatment due to the skin’s thickness and oil gland density.
The back has more sebaceous glands and is prone to friction from clothing, making back acne more persistent and harder to treat. Face acne may be more related to cosmetics and facial hygiene. Whether acne on the face or back acne, if both are left untreated can result in acne scars over time.
Complications from back acne can include painful cysts, permanent scarring, and hyperpigmentation. These issues can affect self-esteem and may require more intensive treatment to manage.
Treating back acne can significantly improve the appearance and texture of the skin, reduce discomfort, and prevent permanent scarring. It also enhances self-confidence and can improve overall skin health.
In Singapore, common treatments for back acne scars include chemical peels, laser therapy, microdermabrasion, microneedling and many others. These treatments help to resurface the skin, promote collagen production, and reduce the appearance of scars.
Depending on the severity, back acne scar removal treatments require different methods. Sometimes, a combination of treatments may also be required for optimal results.
Resurface the skin and reduce the appearance of scars.
Remove the top layer of damaged skin, promoting the growth of new, healthier skin.
Fillers like hyaluronic acid can be injected into depressed scars to elevate them to the level of surrounding skin.
A needle is inserted under the scar tissue to break the fibrous bands, promoting new collagen formation.
A needle is inserted under the scar tissue to break the fibrous bands, promoting new collagen formation.
Combines microneedling with radiofrequency energy to enhance collagen production and improve skin texture and scars.
Resurface the skin and reduce the appearance of scars.
Remove the top layer of damaged skin, promoting the growth of new, healthier skin.
Fillers like hyaluronic acid can be injected into depressed scars to elevate them to the level of surrounding skin.
A needle is inserted under the scar tissue to break the fibrous bands, promoting new collagen formation.
Combines microneedling with radiofrequency energy to enhance collagen production and improve skin texture and scars.
Getting rid of back acne permanently takes time. While it is possible, it requires consistency and maintenance. Here are three simple steps to get rid of back acne permanently:
The cost of back acne removal in Singapore varies depending on the treatment type and the extent of the acne. Treatments can range from topical medications and peels to more intensive procedures like laser therapy. On average:
Range from $50 to $200.
Typically cost between $150 and $1000 per session.
Ranges from $200 to $1000 per session.
At illumia Medical, the treatment for melasma starts with an initial consultation and detailed skin assessment. Our doctors will advise on treatment options and draft a comprehensive treatment plan for you, including pre-treatment guidelines.
Sessions are conducted with careful monitoring, and post-treatment care instructions are given along with follow-up visits to support skin health improvement. For detailed pricing, you can view the full price list here.
At illumia Medical, different back acne treatments are available to help you target your concerns.
At illumia Medical, every treatment begins with a thorough doctor consultation to understand your concerns and assess your individual needs. Our experienced doctors take a patient-focused approach to develop personalised treatment plans tailored to your skin goals, ensuring safe and effective outcomes.
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In Singapore, treatments for back acne scars include a variety of medical and aesthetic procedures. Here are some popular options:
Laser Treatments:
Chemical Peels:
Microneedling:
Subcision:
Dermal Fillers:
Radiofrequency (RF) Microneedling:
Excess oil production, dead skin cells, bacteria, friction from clothing, and hormonal changes cause back acne. It can be treated in Singapore with topical treatments, oral medications and facial treatments. But for severe cases, professional treatments like laser therapy and chemical peels.
Certain shampoos can contribute to back acne if they contain ingredients that clog pores or irritate the skin. It’s essential to rinse shampoo and conditioner thoroughly from your back during showers and consider switching to non-comedogenic hair products.
Sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulphate (SLES) are common foaming agents found in cleansers and shampoos. While they clean the skin and hair, they can also strip away natural oils and cause irritation, potentially leading to breakouts.
Foods high in sugar, dairy, and processed ingredients can exacerbate back acne in some individuals. Managing back acne in Singapore involves maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, along with proper skin care and professional treatments.
While both treatments improve skin health, acne treatment targets active breakouts, and acne scar treatment addresses the aftermath.
Treating acne and treating acne scars are different processes. Acne treatment aims to reduce and manage active breakouts and prevent new ones, using methods like topical treatments oral medications, lifestyle changes, and professional treatments.
In contrast, treating acne scars focuses on improving the skin’s appearance by reducing the visibility of scars from past breakouts. This involves chemical peels, laser therapy, microneedling, dermal fillers, and topical treatments containing retinoids or hyaluronic acid.