Explore effective treatments for stubborn body acne

Acne is commonly associated with facial breakouts, but body acne often becomes much more intense during the summer.

Dr Rinky Kapoor, co-founder and director of The Esthetic Clinics, explained to HT Lifestyle that heat, sweat, humidity, and friction create a "perfect storm" for bacterial overgrowth.

"Sweat mixes with excess sebum, dead skin cells, and surface bacteria to block follicles," the doctor elaborated. Furthermore, applying heavy, comedogenic body lotions without checking formulation labels contributes significantly to these inflammatory breakouts.

Improper post-workout routine in summer worsens body acne

Hygiene habits after exercise play a major role in how skin conditions persist. Dr Kapoor shared her clinical observation that "many patients with regular body acne end up sitting in sweat-soaked clothes for a long time, delay showers after gym or use harsh scrub in a misguided attempt to 'deep clean' the skin, which can all worsen" the condition. Wearing snug activewear further facilitates an environment for bacterial breakouts.

Treatment

Treatment should be as structured as facial skincare. Dr Kapoor shared several targeted tips:

• Consistently using salicylic acid-based body washes to exfoliate follicular openings.
• Applying benzoyl peroxide as a wash or leave-on treatment.
• Seeking topical retinoids or chemical peels for moderate to severe cases.

The expert debunked the idea that this is a hygiene problem, asserting it is a dermatological condition requiring evidence-based care.

Please Note: This information is for educational purposes only and does not count as professional advice.