Body Acne

Body acne is another manifestation of over activity of sebaceous glands in the body, though it is less common than facial acne.

Acne can appear anywhere on the body where sebaceous glands are present in high numbers.  Body acne can manifest in many forms: comedones, papules,  pustules, nodulocystic lesions.

Most common areas affected in body acne are the neck, front and back of chest and buttocks.

The origin and course of body acne is similar to facial acne. Increased sebaceous gland secretion is responsible for the production of body acne lesions.

Unhealthy food habits, occlusive clothing and use of either systemic or topical steroids compound the problem.

Sometimes Keratosis pilaris, with horny papules and comedone-like lesions can mimic body acne. These lesions are typically seen on the back of elbows, upper arm, front of thighs and knees. It is commonly seen in adolescents and is caused by a combined deficiency of Vitamin A, B complex and essential fatty acids.

The commonest form of body acne is back acne. 10% Benzoyl peroxide, which is unsuitable for other areas of  body may be used in the back, where the skin is comparatively thicker.
 

Treatment options for body acne are similar to facial acne in all other aspects.