Bacne: The Causes and The Treatments

It is estimated 80% of people between the ages of 11-30 have experienced an acne outbreak at some point. While women struggle with a larger number of facial acne outbreaks, but it is very common for men, especially adolescent boys to suffer with body acne, or 'bacne'.

Acne is a condition that can affect the skin on any part of the body, but just because it may not be as visible as facial breakouts, it can still be equally as damaging on confidence. The main areas likely to be affected are the chest and back. Not only can this have a massive blow to self-esteem, sometimes ruining the summer months and holidays, it can also cause pain, discomfort and lead to scarring. It can often seem like there is no hope of regaining clear skin, but there are treatments available to help clear and prevent breakouts. The key to treating acne (or any skin condition) is to fully understand it first.

The Cause

Now for the science-y bit. I'll try to keep it as simple as possible, I promise!Sebaceous glands are our skin's oil glands. They are both larger and more numerous on the back, chest mid section of the face. Sebum (oil) travels up the hair shaft and combines with lipids and natural moisturising factors creating the skin's protective layer, the Acid Mantle and Micro Flora.Propionbacteriun “ or P Acnes Bacteria “ live happily amongst the Micro Flora. If the Acid Mantle becomes damaged, this disrupts the balanced environment for the P Acnes Bacteria and causes trouble in the hair shaft and oil glands. Inflammation and infection develop and cellular turnover is increased so rapidly that cells shed too soon and stick to the walls of the hair shaft, creating a blockage. This now becomes the perfect environment for the P Acnes Bacteria to thrive, so they make home at the bottom of the mass. What happens then? You guessed it, the inflammation forms into a cyst or pimple.

The Treatment

As acne is caused by abnormal skin functions, we need to normalize the skin to help it back to a clear, healthy condition. While at home products will help to reduce the appearance, we always find that clinic treatments are the best way to fight the acne head on. I absolutely love the DMK facials to maintain a clear complexion, but did you know they have a skin revision system for the body acne too? The number of treatments will vary depending on the severity of the condition, but many clients start to see results after just two treatments. After a chat with our consultants, we will then put together a home care regime to maintain your results.

If you're looking for a solution to stubborn, troublesome body acne, please call our clinic on 0113 282 3300 to book in for a free consultation.