7 Proven Tips To Get Rid of Shoulder Acne For Good
Discover seven evidence-based tips that will help you prevent and get rid of shoulder acne.
Acne is bad enough when it affects your face, but add shoulder acne to the mix and it can feel like a constant battle. I totally get how frustrating and self-conscious it can make you feel, but don’t worry, I’ve got your back (literally!).
In this post, I’ll share seven, evidence-based tips that will help you prevent and get rid of your should acne. No more hiding under bulky clothes or missing out on those cute off-the-shoulder tops.
Let’s dive in.
Disclosure: Some of the links in this article may be affiliate links, which can provide compensation to me at no cost to you if you decide to purchase. These are products I’ve personally used, as well as are recommended by other skincare experts.
What Causes Shoulder Acne?
If you’re experiencing unexpected and bothersome acne on your shoulders, it is important to determine the cause. Discovering the underlying factors can aid in taking appropriate measures to get rid of them and boost your self-assurance. Let’s explore various reasons that may lead to shoulder acne.
Sweating It Out (and Not Showering Right After):
You’ve just finished a killer workout, feeling all accomplished and sweaty. While sweat is a natural way for your body to cool down, it can mix with oil and dead skin cells, creating a clogged party in your precious pores. And if you don’t shower soon after your sweat session, those unwelcome guests—acne-causing bacteria—start throwing their own little soirée on your shoulders.
Holding Onto Sweaty Clothes for Too Long:
I get it, changing clothes after working up a good sweat might seem like a hassle. But here’s the thing: When you delay changing out of your sweaty gym attire, you’re giving acne-causing bacteria a free ride to camp out on your skin. Plus, tight clothes rubbing against your skin can create a not-so-friendly friction that leads to a type of acne called acne mechanica.
Hormonal Rollercoaster
Ah, hormones—the sneaky little troublemakers that can wreak havoc on our skin. Fluctuations in hormone levels, whether it’s during puberty, your menstrual cycle, or periods of stress, can turn your oil glands into overachievers. And with more oil production comes a higher chance of clogged pores and shoulder acne.
Friction from Clothing
Wearing clothes that are too tight, made of rough materials, or constantly rubbed against the skin can irritate the shoulder area, resulting in inflammation and shoulder acne. Moreover, this rubbing can also lead to folliculitis, a type of acne that occurs when your hair follicles become clogged.
Hair Products Gone Astray
Do you know that fabulous conditioner you love? Well, if it’s not rinsed off your shoulders thoroughly, the residue can clog your pores and contribute to acne lesions on your shoulders.
Overactive Oil Glands
Just like on our face, our shoulder area has sebaceous glands (e.g. oil glands) that can go into overdrive, producing excess oil. This excessive oil production mixed with your dead skin cells can lead to clogged pores and those unwelcome acne pimples on your shoulders.
Shoulder acne can be a real nuisance, but the good news is that most of the time it’s relatively easy to get rid of. Being aware of the underlying factors can help you take appropriate measures and tackle those annoying breakouts.
7 Tips To Treat Acne On Your Shoulders
Now that you know what causes shoulder acne, let’s dive into some tips for treating it.
Tip #1: Use a benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid-based cleanser
Benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid are two well-known and widely used ingredients in acne-fighting products. Benzoyl peroxide works by killing acne-causing bacteria and reducing inflammation, while salicylic acid helps to unclog pores and prevent future breakouts.
Incorporate a body wash containing one of these ingredients into your skincare routine, using it once or twice daily. I recommend trying CeraVe SA Body Wash, which contains salicylic acid that helps to exfoliate acne-prone skin without drying it out. This cleanser is also effective for treating body acne in areas such as the chest, back, and buttocks.
If you’re looking for a benzoyl peroxide body wash, then I’d recommend PanOxyl Acne Foaming Body Wash, which has 10% of benzoyl peroxide.
For best results, leave your body wash on your blemishes for a few minutes before rinsing.
After taking a shower, make sure to use a body lotion because benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid can be very drying on your skin.
I recommend the CeraVe Moisturizing lotion. This too is made with Salicylic Acid and ceramides, which will moisturize your skin while restoring your protective skin barrier.
Salicylic Acid exfoliates rough skin and bumps leaving a softer, smoother look and feel. Contains Hyaluronic Acid to help retain skin’s moisture and Niacinamide to help calm skin.
Maximum strength, antimicrobial foaming wash kills acne-causing bacteria on contact and lifts dirt from pores. Clears existing acne and helps prevent new blemishes from forming.
Dissolves dead skin cells and unclogs pores with BHA and AHA, while providing deep moisture and soothes skin with Centella asiatica and Tea tree extract.
- Benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid have different properties. Benzoyl peroxide is effective against bacteria while salicylic acid mainly targets clogged pores. Both are helpful depending on your specific skin concerns.
- Salicylic acid is more effective for blackheads and whiteheads. Benzoyl peroxide works well for mild pustules.
Tip #2: Spot Treat with Adapalene
Spot treating with adapalene is a game-changer when it comes to treating facial acne that can also be used to prevent shoulder acne, as well.
Adapalene is a topical retinoid that unclogs pores, reduces inflammation, and promotes skin cell turnover. By applying a thin layer of Adapalene gel or cream directly to the affected areas, you can target acne vulgaris at its source.
This powerhouse ingredient clears existing blemishes and prevents new ones from forming. Just be sure to start with a lower concentration, gradually increasing as tolerated, and always follow the instructions provided.
Remember to apply sunscreen during the day, as Adapalene can increase sun sensitivity. For personalized guidance, consult a dermatologist who can help you incorporate Adapalene into your skincare routine effectively.
Clears breakouts where they start (Deep in pores) and prevents new acne from forming, which ultimately restores skin’s texture and tone. In a clinical study, Differin gel provided up to 87 percent reduction in acne breakouts after 12 weeks.
Formulated to be incredibly effective in the treatment of body acne. 2% Salicylic acid (BHA) penetrates pores to eliminate bumps, pimples, and blackheads without the damaging effects of body scrubs or brushes. Even suitable for cystic acne.
5.5% benzyl peroxide with glycerin that is proven to reduce acne by 60% in just 10 days and has been dermatologist tested on sensitive skin. Use for spot treatment for pimples to reduce blemishes. Can be used for chest, face, shoulders, and more.
- Adapalene increases cellular turnover and renewal which can help prevent dead skin cell build-up (although it’s not exfoliating) and reduces inflammation but there is limited research on its ability to reduce c.acne bacteria and control oil production.
- Adapalene, a type of retinoid, is typically regarded as a superior acne treatment to benzoyl peroxide, specifically regarding pore cleansing.
- Research has demonstrated that benzoyl peroxide and adapalene are more effective at treating acne when combined together than either ingredient used alone.
Related Post: Skin Purging vs Breakout: How to Tell the Difference and What to Do About It
Tip # 3: Pat & Don’t Rub
After showering, pat dry versus rubbing with a clean towel to avoid further irritation. This will also help keep the inflammation down. Avoid scrubbing your body with a washcloth or scrubbing brush as this can be abrasive and irritating for acne-prone skin. It might be tempting to scrub away your dead skin cells, but if you use an exfoliating body wash containing salicylic acid.
This could also lead to scarring, so it’s important to be gentle and avoid any vigorous scrubbing or rubbing.
Tip #4: Don’t Pick Your Pimples
It can be tempting to pick at your shoulder acne but resist the urge. Popping or squeezing pimples can introduce more bacteria, increase inflammation, and potentially lead to scarring.
Allow your body’s natural healing process to take place. Instead, focus on maintaining a consistent skincare routine.
Tip #5: Use Sunscreen
Sun protection is crucial for maintaining healthy skin and preventing acne breakouts. The sun’s harmful UV rays can cause irritation, inflammation, and increased oil production, leading to shoulder acne.
Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to your shoulders, even on cloudy days. Look for oil-free or non-comedogenic formulas to prevent pore clogging. Additionally, consider wearing protective clothing or seeking shade during peak sun hours to further shield your shoulders from UV damage.
I recommend the La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Oil-Free Sunscreen SPF 60 because it absorbs excess oil and reduces shine without feeling greasy.
Oil-free broad spectrum sunscreen for acne prone skin helps absorb excess oil, reduce shine and won’t cause breakouts.
Moisturizing sunscreen( SPF50+ and PA++++ ratings). Soft and creamy texture without leaving a white cast. Active ingredients like Niacinamide for brightening and Hyaluronic acid for hydration, this sunscreen doubles as a moisturizer.
Hybrid sunscreen that can block both UVA/UVB rays (SPF 50 PA++++). Includes hyaluronic acid, to ensure your skin remains hydrated and healthy throughout the day, and niacinamide to balance and brighten skin.
- Reapply your sunscreen every 2 hours. If your spending alot of time in water, apply based on the water resistant limit.
- Look for SPF 30-50 range.
- Make sure your getting both UVB & UBA protection – look for “broad spectrum,” “UVA” and “PA” labels.
Tip #6: Shower After Working Out
Take regular showers, especially after sweating or engaging in physical activities. Sweat, oil, and dirt can accumulate on your shoulders, contributing to clogged pores and breakouts.
Additionally, change into clean clothes, especially after exercising, to avoid reintroducing sweat and bacteria to your skin. Opt for loose-fitting and breathable fabrics to minimize friction and irritation.
Tip #7: Consult a Dermatologist
If the above recommendations aren’t enough to help you manage shoulder acne, it may be worth seeking professional advice from a dermatologist (esp. if you suffer from severe acne).
Your doctor can assess your individual needs and recommend prescription medications or other effective treatments that can help reduce inflammation and breakouts.
Wrap-up
Shoulder acne can be frustrating to deal with, but with the right treatments and preventative measures, you can successfully manage it.
Don’t hesitate to speak to a dermatologist if you’re struggling to manage your acne vulgaris or if you have any concerns.
Let me know in the comments section what has worked best to get rid of your shoulder acne.
