Got some spots on your chest, back, or *gasp* derrière that are bothering you? Don’t worry—you’re not alone.

According to skin experts, having acne in these areas is actually pretty common. Pimples are caused by clogged pores (usually due to dirt, accumulated oils, or dead skin cells), and we have pores all over our bodies. Zits can happen literally anywhere. 

This condition being common is a good thing, because (1) you’re not the only person “suffering” from this, and (2) there are tons of treatments and tips readily available. So if you want to get rid of those unsightly bumps in the same way the entire human population is getting ready to get rid of 2020, here are our suggestions for a smoother version of you in 2021.

Observe Proper Hygiene

The best way to get rid of or prevent bacne (back acne) is good personal hygiene, which means showering regularly especially after a sweaty workout. When cleansing your body, look for products with ingredients like salicylic acid, glycolic acid, hyaluronic acid, or lactic acid, according to Elle. “Acids like these prevent dead skin cells from building up and blocking your pores,” explains London-based consultant dermatologist, Dr. Justine Kluk in the Elle article.. “And remember, cleanse your skin thoroughly in the shower every day.”

In the Philippines, you can try the Belo Glycolic Soap (₱600 for 5% concentration, ₱700 for 10% concentration) to keep your skin clean, moisturized, and smooth. Dr. Kluk adds that you should choose the right moisturizer or lotion to make sure it won’t clog your pores. Look for products labelled “non-comedogenic” and “oil-free.” Experts suggest that showering with warm water is best, but consider ending your shower with some cold water to ‘close’ your pores.

Trim, Don’t Shave

Speaking of hygiene: When it comes to “landscaping” your nether region, chest or back, it’s better to just trim the hair instead of shaving or waxing it off. According to an article by GQ, shaving or waxing may “keep you smooth as a seal, but the chances for infection and breakouts are substantial. Instead, trim it as close as you can and do this every week or two depending on how fast the hair grows.” Trimming minimizes the disturbance of the hair follicles, which means less irritation or chances of getting an ingrown hair (which could also look like a pimple).

Be Gentle on Your Skin

Dermatologist Dr. Shari Marchbein shared with Women’s Health that exfoliating one to three times a week could help prevent pimples because it sloughs off dead skin cells on a regular basis. However, there’s a caveat: “over-cleansing and over-exfoliating can irritate the skin and will trick your body into thinking it needs to produce more oil.”

Be Mindful of Your Workout Habits

Try to wear loose-fitting clothing, which allows your skin to breathe. For the ladies, keep your hair off your back by tying it up (excess oil in your hair could add more oils on your back, or your hair could cause irritation on your skin).

Never Pop Your Zits…

…no matter how tempting it may be! Popping zits could lead to infection and acne scars. It’s best to just cleanse your body properly, and pimples should go away naturally after a few days. If you can’t take it, let us at Belo handle it!

Check Your Laundry Detergent

Sometimes, it’s not even about your hygiene. Make sure to check your laundry detergent and go for hypoallergenic ones, preferably with minimal fragrance or dyes, which could cause skin irritation especially if you have sensitive skin.

Improve Your Diet

This might be the most challenging way to keep pimples at bay, but it could also be the most effective. Eat healthy food (fruits and vegetables will never fail) and try to avoid—okay, minimize—junk. Also, make sure to stay hydrated by drinking at least eight glasses of water a day, which could also help flush out toxins.

Acne or Folliculitis?

In an article by Cosmopolitan, dermatologists Dr. Morgan Rabach and Shereene Idriss pointed out that a lot of people mistake folliculitis or an inflammation of hair follicles, which could look a lot like pimples.

Whichever one it may be, remember that the safest way to deal with pimples (especially heavy break-outs) is to consult a medical professional. There are several Belo procedures that trained professionals and dermatologists can suggest to address your acne problems anywhere in your body, like the TCA Peel or Salt Facial. As long as it’s recommended by a trusted professional, you can expect great results.

Ready to book an appointment? Click here or call 8819-BELO (2356) today!