Back Acne Treatment

Back acne (also called 'bacne') is a common skin condition where spots, blackheads, cysts or red patches appear on the back, shoulders and decollete. The causes are similar to facial acne: overactive sebaceous glands, a build-up of dead skin cells that clog pores, bacterial infections and hormonal fluctuations. Additional factors include sweating, tight clothing, synthetic sportswear and backpacks that cause friction. Genetic predisposition also plays a role.

The Back Acne treatment at SKIN is a professional deep cleansing of the back and shoulders by our skin therapist. The 60-minute session consists of thorough cleansing, steaming to open pores, manual extraction of blackheads and clogged pores, and application of an antibacterial and soothing peel or mask. Depending on the severity of the acne, the skin therapist may also add LED light therapy or cold plasma to kill bacteria and suppress inflammation.

Most clients need 4 to 8 sessions for structural improvement, with 2 to 4 weeks between each treatment. With mild back acne, 3 to 4 sessions are sometimes sufficient. Severe cystic acne requires a longer approach: our skin therapist will draw up a course plan together with you. After the course, periodic maintenance of approximately once every 6 to 8 weeks is needed to prevent relapse.

The treatment is well-tolerated, but during the extraction step, where blackheads and clogged pores are removed, you may feel slight pressure or a brief pain sensation. This is normal and short-lived. Our skin therapist works systematically and in a controlled manner, adjusting the intensity to your threshold. Active and inflamed acne may cause slightly more temporary discomfort, but most clients find the treatment very manageable.

Directly after the treatment the back may be lightly red and feel somewhat more sensitive. This usually subsides within a few hours. Some clients experience a slight flare-up of spots 1 to 2 days after extraction; this is a normal cleansing process. Wear loose, cotton clothing the day after treatment where possible. Our skin therapist provides specific home care advice after each session.

After the first session the skin already feels cleaner and the most visible blackheads are gone. A noticeable reduction in active spots typically begins after 2 to 3 sessions. For a truly clear back without active acne, 4 to 6 sessions are needed. Scars from previous back acne fade more slowly; the skin therapist can recommend additional treatments for those.

We advise against intense exercise on the day of treatment. Sweat can re-irritate the cleansed pores and reduce the effectiveness of any active ingredients applied. Light activity is fine, but gym sessions, swimming or intense sweating are better postponed until the next day. Always wear clean, non-constricting sportswear made from breathable material to prevent back acne.

Yes, the treatment is suitable in summer too. Do be aware that the treated skin is more sensitive to UV radiation for 24 to 48 hours after the session. Our skin therapist advises avoiding direct sunlight on the back immediately after treatment. Always apply SPF 30 or higher to the back when in the sun. Tanning bed use is always discouraged during an acne course.

The basic treatment (cleansing, extraction, soothing mask) is generally safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Our skin therapist adapts the protocol and omits chemical peels or certain active serums where more caution is warranted. Always discuss this with your midwife or GP in advance. SKIN treats pregnant clients with extra care and an adapted protocol.

A Back Acne treatment of 60 minutes costs 130 euros at SKIN. This includes a complete session with intake, deep cleansing, extraction and aftercare advice from our skin therapist. For a full course of 6 treatments the total price is 780 euros. Want to know which approach best suits your back acne? Book a 45-minute consultation including skin analysis.