Atypical Acne: Chest and Arms

Just when you thought you had acne under control, annoying bumps and breakouts pop up in the most unlikely place: on the chest and backs of the arms. Acne can show up on the body for many reasons, at any age.

Causes

Although acne is most often associated with the face, it’s not uncommon for breakouts to occur on other parts of the body, and the chest and arms are prime targets. As with the face, acne shows up on the body for many of the same reasons: excess oil production and sluggish exfoliation of dead skin cells lead to an over-growth of bacteria with painful inflammation.

The sebaceous glands, located in the skin, produce sebum, an oil-like substance that hydrates and protects the skin. Under normal circumstances, when neither too much nor too little is present, sebum is a miraculous substance. It protects the skin from dehydration, and naturally keeps it smooth and supple. The troubles start when this production is disrupted, and too much sebum is left on the skin. In larger areas such as the arms and chest, there are more sebaceous glands, which increase the chance of breakouts.

Excess sebum on the skin does more than merely leave a shine. It also causes dead skin cells to clump together and stick to the inside of pores, plugging the opening and creating the perfect breeding ground for bacteria. The result? Inflammation, whiteheads, blackheads and ultimately, blemishes.

From bad to worse

Certain factors can increase the chances of developing acne on the chest or arms, or cause existing body acne to become worse.

• Tight clothing. If your clothes are constricting or the fabric rubs against the skin, it can create pressure, friction and irritation. Also, keep in mind that some fabrics don’t "breathe" as well as others, so moisture can’t evaporate. This is especially true of some synthetic fabrics.
• Damp or sweaty clothes. We all know that exercise is important to keep our bodies and our skin healthy. Whether you power-walk, hit the gym or play team sports, staying in damp, sweaty clothing afterwards is just asking for trouble because it provides the perfect environment for bacteria to flourish.
• Long hair. Surprising but true. According to DermalNetwork, long hair (past the shoulders) can transfer oil and dirt to the shoulders, back, arms and chest, which can lead to and increased risk of breakouts.

In the clear

The good news is that acne on the body can easily be treated. Common sense — and good hygiene — goes a long way when treating acne on the chest or arms. For starters, shower as soon as possible after exercise, vigorous activity or sweating. Choose a body wash with salicylic acid to control bumps and increase cell turnover: Murad Acne Body Wash has triclosan, as well, to kill bacteria.

Another great way to control acne is to use a purifying body mask. Try AHAVA Pure Spa Energizing Body Mud Mask Mandarin Cedarwood, made with pore-clearing mud and clay, as well as mandarin and cedarwood extracts. Leave it on for five minutes and rinse well. Spot treatments for individual blemishes are also a good idea. Look for one that contains benzoyl peroxide, glycolic acid, salicylic acid or tea tree oil. Jan Marini Benzoyl Peroxide 10%, Dr. Michelle Copeland Blemish Corrector and Intensive Acne Spot Treatment and Murad Clarifying Body Spray are all great choices.

Finally, loosen up! Opt for loose-fitting, breathable clothing that doesn’t constrict or trap moisture next to the skin. Cotton is one of the best fabrics for people prone to body breakouts.