Doctor Warns: Common Shower Habit Could Cause Back Acne!

In our fast-paced lives, the time we dedicate to hair care can often become minimal. Between shampooing, conditioning, applying hair masks, and then drying or styling our hair, we are pressed for time and might neglect certain steps that are crucial for maintaining healthy skin.

It’s important to remember that maintaining healthy hair involves simple but careful actions: shampooing twice by massaging the scalp, using a gentle conditioner to ease detangling, and applying a hair mask at least once a week for a minimum of five minutes. Many of us perform this routine while in the shower to save time. However, without realizing it, this is precisely when we make a mistake that promotes the occurrence of back acne, or “bacne.”

Bacne—a blend of the words “back” and “acne”—affects about 15 to 20% of teenagers and young adults. However, this condition can persist or appear in up to 30% of adults, according to studies published in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology (JCAD) in 2023. This type of acne, which is localized on the back, is often caused by clogged pores that are exacerbated by sweating, clothing friction, and particularly by residues from hair care products.

Dr. Sachetti, a specialist in aesthetic treatments, points out the most common mistake: washing your back before applying hair care treatments. By doing so, conditioners and masks—rich in oils, silicones, butters, or waxes—leave behind residues that flow down onto the skin and clog pores. The result is the formation of blackheads and pimples, especially if the skin is already prone to acne or if one sweats excessively.

To reduce this risk, simply adopt the right techniques. First, tie your hair up while your treatment is setting to prevent it from contacting the skin on your back. Next, make sure to rinse your body last, after thoroughly washing out the hair mask or conditioner. Don’t hesitate to use a gentle body wash or a cleanser with a suitable pH level to effectively remove any residues. Lastly, remember to regularly wash clothing such as sportswear or pajamas that may come into contact with your back after applying hair treatments.

A slight reorganization of your shower routine can make a significant difference. By taking care to rinse your body after your hair, you protect your skin’s health while maintaining gorgeous hair. A small change that means a lot.