Chest Acne– Tips To Avoid And Treatment
Chest acne like face acne is a common occurrence among all age groups irrespective of sex. However, chest acne is more common in women than in men. Also chest acne is predominant in individuals whose glands secrete abnormally large quantity of oil in the skin.
People suffering from chest acne find their chest covered with pimples, cysts, blackheads and whiteheads.
One major reason for chest acne is over secretion of oil from the sebaceous glands. These glands are present just below the skin. Normal functioning of sebaceous glands keeps the skin clean, clear and glowing. However, over-active secretion of oil from these glands blocks the skin pores with sebum.
This sebum attracts free radicals present in the atmosphere leading to formation of acne. The acne causing bacteria thrive well in an oily and dirty environment. Presence of these bacteria leads to infection which further leads to eruption of cysts on the skin.
Hormonal imbalance is another reason for chest acne. In some individuals over production of the hormone androgen can cause acne on face and body. In some cases chest acne is a result of extreme climatic condition particularly hot summers. Wearing tight fitting clothes in summer can block the skin pores with oil produced along with sweat.
The blocking of pores can lead to acne on the chest. Individuals who use strong smelling cosmetics also end up with chest acne. The reason is that chemicals used to manufacture strong fragrances in deodorants, lotions and talcum powders tend to clog the skin pores. The result is chest acne.
In order to avoid chest acne it is important to maintain good hygiene at all times. Cleaning the body with water and mild soap should be done daily especially if you tend to sweat a lot. Avoid too much use of cosmetics on the skin of your chest. Wear loose cotton clothes during summer as cotton will help absorb the sweat thus keeping the skin dry and clean. Wash your clothes properly with water so that the chemicals from detergents get washed off completely.
Start treatment of chest acne as soon as you notice the first lesion. This is important to avoid spreading the acne to other parts of the body. Use a medicated soap to clean your chest. Wash and dry the chest well. Then apply a thin layer of benzoyl peroxide on the affected area. In case of severe infection consult a dermatologist.
