Back Breakouts: Does Scrubbing Help or Make It Worse?
Gentle skin care after 50
Back Breakouts: Does Scrubbing Help or Make It Worse?
When bumps show up on your back, it's natural to want to scrub them away. Here's why a softer touch works better, and what a textured washcloth can and can't do.
You catch sight of your back in the mirror and spot a cluster of red bumps between your shoulder blades. Your first thought might be: I need to wash harder. It feels logical. But with breakouts, harder usually isn't better.
And if you thought breakouts were left behind in your teens, you're not alone. Many women are surprised to see them again later in life. Here's a calm, practical way to care for your back.
Myth: Scrubbing your back hard will get rid of breakouts.
Fact: Scrubbing skin with breakouts can irritate it and make acne worse. Gentle washing is the kinder choice.
Yes, breakouts can happen after 50
Adults do get acne. Some get it well into their 40s and even their 50s, and some get it for the first time as adults.
Women get adult acne more often than men. Shifting hormone levels around menopause can play a part, and so can stress. Acne usually shows up on the face, chest and back.
Some products can play a part too. Body lotions, sunscreens and hair products with oil in them can clog pores. Labels that say "non-comedogenic," "oil-free" or "won't clog pores" are the safer pick.
Why scrubbing can backfire
Scrubbing skin with breakouts may seem like the right move. But it can irritate your skin, and irritated skin is more likely to flare.
- Rough tools. Loofahs, back brushes and abrasive scrubs can make acne worse.
- Harsh products. Astringents and harsh soaps can make acne worse, too.
- Drying it out. Dry skin is irritated skin, and irritation can mean more breakouts.
- Picking and popping. It can push what's inside deeper and leave scars or dark spots.
A gentle back routine for breakout days
- Use a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser. Pick one that's oil-free or says "won't clog pores."
- Lather with your hands. Where you have breakouts, use your hands and light pressure. Skip the scrubbing.
- Rinse with lukewarm water. Warm, not hot.
- Pat dry with a clean towel. Pat, don't rub.
- Shower soon after sweating. After a walk or a workout, wash and change into dry clothes as soon as you can.
- Ease the rubbing. Straps and anything that rubs your back can irritate it. Loose clothes help.
For more help reaching the middle of your back, read How to Wash Your Back in the Shower (Even the Middle).
What a textured washcloth can and can't do
Gentle exfoliation removes dead skin cells from the top layer of your skin. Some people like how their skin looks afterward. But it is not a breakout fix, and it won't make spots go away.
Done too hard or too often, it can do more harm than good. It can even lead to more redness or breakouts. For skin that's prone to acne, a gentler approach is usually better.
So here's the simple rule: don't use a textured washcloth over active breakouts. Save it for calm days, on skin that has no spots, cuts or sunburn. Use plenty of lather and short, light strokes.
A gentle towel wash a few times a week is plenty. If you're new to it, start with once or twice a week and use the lightest pressure. If your skin turns red or stings, stop.
For a softer way to reach the hard-to-reach spots, see How to Wash Your Back in the Shower, Gently.
Give it time
Changes to your routine take time to show. With acne care, it can take six to eight weeks to see a difference, and longer for full results.
Try not to switch products every week or so. Changing too often can irritate your skin, which can cause more breakouts.
A pharmacist can suggest over-the-counter options for body acne and explain how to use them.
When to see a doctor
Sometimes acne is a sign of another health problem, so it's worth getting checked. See a doctor if:
- You've tried caring for it yourself, but it's not getting better
- The spots are deep, painful or leaving scars
- Your skin looks infected: hot, swollen and red
- Breakouts started after a new medicine
- It's getting you down
A board-certified doctor who specializes in skin can look at your back and suggest prescription options if you need them.
Back breakouts: FAQ
Does scrubbing help back breakouts?
No. Scrubbing skin with breakouts can irritate it and make acne worse. Wash gently with your hands and a mild cleanser instead.
Can I use a textured washcloth on my back?
Yes, on calm skin, with lots of lather and light pressure, a few times a week at most. Don't use it over active breakouts, cuts or sunburned skin.
Why am I getting breakouts after 50?
Adult acne is most common in women going through menopause. Shifting hormones, stress, some medicines and oily products can all play a part.
Should I pop the spots on my back?
No. Picking and popping can push what's inside deeper, and can lead to scars and dark spots.
Try it for 30 days.
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