ciao77's advice column

askciao77

advice column ask question view feedback favorite columnist advicenators

Q: I've been getting breakouts across the tops and backs of my shoulders since late last summer, and nothing i do makes them disappear!
i've tried using my acne medication on them, but they are still stubborn. it has helped my face, but won't help these. i don't use it very frequently. would using it more frequently help?

obviously, with it being only a few months until summer, i would like to be rid of them before summer.
they don't show under t-shirts, but i hate wearing tank tops/bathing suits.

any tips?? should i keep using the acne stuff, or would just leaving them alone make them go away?

thanks!

I also get pimples on my back sometimes, but it's gotten a lot better since I've started exfoliating regularly. I use an abrasive, rough loofah for that area- it's more effective. You can use that, or get a good exfoliating glove.

Pimples mainly form due to excess dead skin and dirt clogging up your pores, which can eventually lead to an infection. If you exfoliate your back well when you take a shower, the dead skin cells will be swept off, leaving you with a layer of healthy, glowing skin. Overtime, the breakouts will start to subside, and you'll likely only get the occasional pimple. Every time I exfoliate, my skin feels very soft and looks a lot healthier and less ashy. Best of all, I get less breakouts on my back now.

In addition to exfoliating (which should be the main method), you can try using benzol peroxide pads on the affected area- Stridex carries them, they're called Power Pads. I started using them on my face, and it has helped clear up my skin. Some people, myself included, have better results with benzol peroxide than with salicylic acid, which the majority of drugstore acne products use. Although I haven't tried the Stridex Power Pads on my back, I imagine that regular use should help out quite a bit, especially after exfoliating.

Try exfoliating and maybe using the Stridex pads for a couple of weeks, and you should see significant improvement. If it is still a problem, you might want to talk to your dermatologist for recommendations.

Rating: 5

thanks!!!

bio

I am here to give honest advice, when I feel I have something to contribute. I try to be as empathetic and understanding as I can, as I know that the way something is said is as important as the message itself.

I usually advise on love/relationships, friendship and family issues, nutrition, and health (mental and physical). If I feel I can help out, there's not a whole lot I am unwilling to answer. Ask away!