What Causes Chest Acne?

 

CHEST ACNE CAUSE #1: EXCESSIVE SWEATING

One of the most common reasons for chest acne is sweat—whether it be due to exercise or heat—lingering on the skin for prolonged periods of time. When sweat mixes with existing dirt, toxins, and oil on the skin’s surface, it can clog the pores and result in chest acne. Thus, it’s recommended to shower or, at the very least, rinse off within 10 minutes of exercise or excessive sweating. 

CHEST ACNE CAUSE #2: REACTION TO SYNTHETIC MATERIALS OR FABRICS 

Ill-fitting clothing or clothing made of irritating materials can lead to acne on skin that’s particularly sensitive. Called acne mechanica, it is the result of materials or objects touching your skin and leading to a breakout. Acne mechanica can also be aggravated by moisture, so if you’re sweating and wearing clothes that don’t allow your skin to breathe, a breakout could ensue. Similarly, your chest breakout could be the result of an allergic reaction to a new detergent or cleaning product used on your clothing or sheets. When in doubt, consult a dermatologist. 

CHEST ACNE CAUSE #3: HORMONES

Any major hormonal changes—think: puberty, periods, and pregnancy—or fluctuations in the body can send our oil-producing sebaceous glands into overdrive, which can clog pores and potentially lead to chest pimples.

CHEST ACNE CAUSE #4: TOUCHING YOUR CHEST

We’ve heard it over and over again: Don’t touch your skin! Our fingers are covered in oil and bacteria, which can extend onto our chests if we touch it too often. If you apply any skin care products to your chest with your hands, make sure your hands are washed first. Always check the formulas of any products you use on your skin to ensure they are free of irritating ingredients and is safe for your skin type. 

TRIGGERS THAT MAY WORSEN YOUR CHEST ACNE

Now that you’re aware of the factors that can cause chest acne, allow us to brief you on some of the factors that can make blemishes worse.

Diet: Studies have shown that your diet may play a pivotal role in the appearance of your skin, with certain foods capable of worsening acne. While these reports are fairly new, it seems apparent that some foods can affect your skin’s appearance or acne. Our recommendation? Stick to a colorful diet of healthy fruits and vegetables. You can use our guide here to learn how to snack your way to better skin.

Stress: Do you ever notice pimples cropping up in times of high stress? That’s not a coincidence. According to New York-based dermatologist and Skincare.com consultant Dr. Joshua Zeichner, “stress can promote inflammation and lead to breakouts of a variety of different skin conditions including acne. What’s more, “stress can lead to an increase in hormone levels that cause oil glands to rev up production of pore-clogging sebum, which can cause breakouts.” Where possible, try to relieve tension with relaxing activities like curling up with a good book or engaging in an at-home spa day.

COMMON MYTHS ABOUT CHEST ACNE

If you’re dealing with acne, there’s a good chance you’ve heard a myth or two along the way. To help ensure you’re taking the proper steps toward a bright and clear complexion, we took the liberty of debunking six popular chest acne myths, ahead:

Myth #1: Chest breakouts arise solely from bad hygiene.

While it’s true that chest acne may result from waiting too long to take a shower post-sweating, it is not caused by dirty skin. Even those who stick to a perfect routine still battle breakouts around the chest area.

Myth #2: You should pop chest pimples.

This couldn’t be farther from the truth. Pimples— no matter where they surface— should never be popped. According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), popping zits can worsen acne and potentially lead to scarring. If the damage has already been done and you need assistance in caring for the affected area, read up on how to handle your acne post-pop.

Myth #3: Showering with hot water can help kill acne-causing bacteria.

Hot water won’t kill acne-causing bacteria. In fact, it can wreak havoc on your skin and cause unwanted dryness. Shower with lukewarm water instead, and follow up with moisturizer while your skin is slightly damp.

Myth #4: You should leave your chest acne alone.

Refraining from taking action in addressing chest acne is the wrong mindset to have. With so many topical solutions out there, why not take advantage of them?

Myth #5: Acne treatments can clear acne overnight.

Don’t set yourself up for disappointment by assuming that your acne-fighting products will zap away zits within hours. Topical treatments for acne typically take between four and eight weeks to show results. If you don’t see a difference in your body acne in at least 8 weeks, schedule a consultation with your dermatologist for a different course of action.  

 

Myth #6: Sun tanning can help clear chest acne.

Sun tanning and tanning beds aren’t doing any favors for your skin. Avoid tanning and be sure to wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 30 to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays. If you need a helping hand in finding a tried-and-true sunscreen, check out our list of our favorites here.

Editor’s note: It’s important to note that there currently is not a sunscreen on the market that blocks out 100% of the sun’s harmful UV rays. That said, sunscreen is still one of the most important protectors against it. For more information on sun damage, educate yourself on the facts, here.

HOW TO HELP REDUCE THE APPEARANCE OF CHEST ACNE

Eager to eliminate your chest acne? Board-certified dermatologist and Skincare.com consultant Dr. Lisa Ginn likes to use topical products formulated with sulfur to address acne on the skin. Other acne-fighting ingredients that may be helpful are benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid.

Another option for helping to reduce acne flares on the chest area? Turning to AcneFree’s Body Clearing Acne Spray. Formulated with glycolic acid, vitamin B3, salicylic acid, and aloe, this non-sticky spray formula helps clear body breakouts. For best practices, cleanse the skin thoroughly before applying and apply to the entire affected area. Apply once a day and increase use to twice daily, if needed.

Battling breakouts in other places? From hormonal acne to getting rid of acne scars, click here for expert tips on how to address acne-related skin concerns!