Back Acne Treatment in Singapore
Acne is a common skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide, and while it's often associated with the face, it can also occur on other parts of the body, including the back.
Back acne, also known as bacne, can be particularly frustrating and uncomfortable, leading many individuals to seek effective treatments to manage and alleviate its symptoms. In Singapore, where the humid climate can exacerbate skin issues, understanding the causes and available treatment options for back acne is crucial for maintaining healthy skin.
What are the causes of Back Acne?
Excess Sebum Production
Sebaceous glands in the skin produce sebum, an oily substance that helps keep the skin lubricated. When these glands produce too much sebum, it can clog pores and lead to acne.
Clogged Pores
Dead skin cells and bacteria can accumulate in hair follicles, leading to clogged pores. This creates an environment conducive to the growth of acne-causing bacteria.
Hormonal Changes
Fluctuations in hormone levels, such as those that occur during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, or when taking certain medications, can contribute to the development of acne.
Sweat and Friction
Sweat, heat, and friction from tight clothing or backpacks can irritate the skin and exacerbate acne on the back.
Genetics
A family history of acne can increase one's likelihood of developing back acne.
Stress
Stress can exacerbate back acne by increasing hormone levels like cortisol, which stimulates excess oil production, leading to clogged pores and inflammation. Additionally, stress weakens the immune system, disrupts the skin barrier, and may prompt unhealthy behaviors that worsen acne, forming a cycle of stress-induced breakouts.
Diet
Diet can influence back acne through factors like high-glycemic foods and dairy, which can increase inflammation and stimulate oil production, potentially exacerbating breakouts. In Singapore, spicy and oily foods are commonly enjoyed, but there's a prevalent belief that consuming them can worsen acne and skin inflammation, though this hasn't been definitively proven.
Recommended Treatments for Backacne
Managing back acne often requires a combination of lifestyle changes, skincare practices, and, in some cases, medical interventions.
In Singapore, individuals dealing with back acne can explore various treatment options, including:
Topical Treatments
Over-the-counter or prescription-strength topical medications containing ingredients like benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or retinoids can help unclog pores, reduce inflammation, and prevent new breakouts.
Exfoliation
Regular exfoliation can help remove dead skin cells and prevent pore blockages. However, it's essential to avoid scrubbing too vigorously, as this can irritate the skin and worsen acne.
Medicated Cleansers
Using medicated cleansers formulated with acne-fighting ingredients can help keep the back clean and prevent acne breakouts. Look for products containing salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide.
Oral Medications
In severe cases of back acne, dermatologists may prescribe oral medications such as antibiotics, hormonal therapies, or isotretinoin (commonly known as Accutane) to help control acne from within.
Professional Treatments
Lifestyle Modifications
Dermatologists in Singapore may offer treatments such as chemical peels, microdermabrasion, or laser therapy to help improve the appearance of back acne and reduce scarring.
Making lifestyle changes such as wearing breathable clothing, showering after sweating, avoiding excessive sun exposure, and maintaining a healthy diet can help reduce the severity of back acne.
Professional Extraction
Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)
Dermatologists or trained skincare professionals may perform extractions to remove stubborn comedones (clogged pores) or whiteheads, reducing the risk of further inflammation and infection.
PDT is a treatment that uses a combination of light and a photosensitizing solution to target and destroy acne-causing bacteria while minimizing oil production and inflammation.
Finding the right treatment for your Acne
Our approach to back acne treatment is centered on understanding your unique skin needs and tailoring a plan accordingly.
That's why our dedicated team of doctors personalises acne treatments specifically for you, taking into account your microbiome health and acne condition.
To help you better understand how back acne can be treated, we’ve outlined five examples of treatment approaches commonly used at our clinic. Your doctor will determine the most appropriate plan for you during your consultation, based on your skin condition and health profile.
Acne Treatment Options:
Option 1.Acne Peeling
At KINS Clinic, we incorporate HydraFacial—a patented technology—to cleanse pores and address micro-blockages that may contribute to breakouts.
This is followed by Blue Light Therapy, a non-invasive method used to target acne-related bacteria and support skin barrier health.
To provide soothing care, we apply our signature Aloe Vera mask, known for its hydrating and calming properties.
As the final step in this example treatment pathway, we apply a microbiome-focused routine using KINS Signature products developed in Japan, to support a resilient and healthy skin environment.
Option 2.Laser Treatments
In any acne treatment plan, laser treatments play a pivotal role. Lasers effectively focus on the P. acnes bacteria responsible for causing acne breakouts on the skin. Moreover, lasers can be personalized to the acne condition of each individual by setting different wavelengths to target the excess blood vessels around inflamed areas, including scars and pigmentation left behind post-acne healing.
For those seeking a treatment with minimal downtime, our Vbeam laser treatment is a great and effective choice. When performed by qualified professionals, laser treatments are often used to improve acne-related skin concerns and have been observed to support clearer skin in many cases. A single session typically lasts between 10 to 15 minutes, allowing patients to resume their daily activities shortly after the treatment.
Option 3.Topical Treatments
Topical medications offer a variety of targeted ingredients demonstrably effective in managing acne vulgaris. Common topical agents fall into three main categories:
Topical Retinoids: Tretinoin, Adapalene, and Tazarotene are prescriptions that effectively target comedonal acne (blackheads & whiteheads) by keeping skin pores clean and preventing future breakouts.
Antibacterial Agents: Benzoyl peroxide, Clindamycin, and Erythromycin are antibiotic warriors that fight acne-causing bacteria, reducing their numbers and calming inflammation.
Keratolytic Agents: Salicylic acid, Hydroxy acid, and Azelaic acid act like gentle exfoliators, dissolving away dead skin cells that clog pores and contribute to pimples. Imagine them as pore-clearing cheerleaders, helping trapped pimples shrink and fade.
Option 4.Oral & Topical Treatments
Recommended only for serious acne conditions, there are generally 3 types of oral medications that a doctor may prescribe, depending on your acne and health condition:
Oral Antibiotics: Helps your body to fight acne bacteria and reduce inflammation. Oral antibiotics like Doxycycline, Tetracycline, Minocycline, and Erythromycin tackle the P. acnes bacteria that contribute to acne, calming inflammation and reducing breakouts.
Oral Isotretinoin: Recommended for stubborn and tough acne. When other treatments fall short, oral isotretinoin, a powerful retinoid, steps in. It shrinks oil glands, clears inflammation, and tackles even severe nodulocystic acne effectively.
Hormonal Therapy: Helps balances your hormonal level to attain clearer skin. For hormonal acne, options like birth control pills and Spironolactone can be powerful allies. They help regulate hormones to prevent breakouts before they start.
Option 5.Microbiome skincare
In addition to undergoing clinical acne treatments, it is imperative to ensure that your daily skincare routine is well-balanced and tailored to your specific skin type to sustain the achieved results.
Incorporating a range of Microbiome skincare products can help strengthen and boost skin recovery and prevent acne bacteria and inflammations without feeling tightness or excessive dryness.
KINS Clinic DOCTOR'S PROFILE
Dr.Henry Loh
Dermatologist and Chief Medical Advisor
Fellows of the Academy of Medicine, Singapore (FAMS) / Membership of the Royal Colleges of Physicians (MRCP) / Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (BMBS)
Prior to joining KINS Clinic, Dr. Henry Loh was a co- founding partner of Dermatology Associates, one of the largest private dermatology clinic groups in Singapore. He has also been instrumental in promoting the use of the latest treatments.
Medical Director and Consultant
Post-graduate Diploma in Practical Dermatology (PgDip) / Doctor of Medicine (MD) / Bachelor of Medical Studies (BMed) / Bachelor of Science in Medicine (BSc (Med))
Dr Silver Chua specialises in the medical care of acne, rosacea, and other common skin concerns, complemented by a strong background in aesthetic treatments. She leads the fully integrated care pathway at KINS Clinic—ensuring patients receive cohesive, evidence-based care that bridges both medical and aesthetic needs. Her approach is grounded in safety, with a strong emphasis on achieving naturally balanced, lasting results.
Dr Silver is fluent in both English and Mandarin
FAQ
This page has been medically reviewed by Dr Henry Loh
