Blackheads don’t only happen on your nose they can happen on your back as well, and they can be even more difficult to handle there. Back blackheads are incredibly prevalent, particularly if you have oily skin, sweat a great deal, or wear tight clothing. But the good news: with the right strategy, you can prevent and treat them.
Let’s take it step by step.
What Makes Blackheads on Your Back?
Blackheads occur when your pores get filled with oil, dead skin cells, and occasionally bacteria. On your back, this usually occurs because:
- You perspire heavily (especially during hot weather or after exercise)
- You wear tight or non-breathing clothes
- You apply heavy body lotions or hair products that plug pores
- You don’t regularly exfoliate your back
How to Treat Blackheads on Your Back
1. Apply a Salicylic Acid Body Wash
Salicylic acid is a BHA that goes deep within pores and removes the gunk. Wash your body with a salicylic acid body wash in the shower 3–4 times per week (or every day if your skin can handle it).
Check the body washes for “acne treatment” or “exfoliating.”
2. Exfoliate Gently
Dead skin cells = clogged pores. Exfoliate once or twice a week with a gentle scrub or chemical exfoliant (such as glycolic acid or lactic acid).
Exfoliate your back using a long-handled brush or exfoliating cloth.
3. Shower After Sweating
After a hot day or a workout, don’t let sweat linger on your skin — it can combine with oils and clog pores. Shower ASAP and dress in clean, breathable clothing.
4. Use a Retinoid Cream
Retinoids stimulate cell turnover and keep pores unclogged. You can use an over-the-counter retinoid (such as adapalene) on your back at night. If blackheads are persistent, consult a dermatologist for a prescription.
5. Use Non-Comedogenic Products
Ensure that your body lotions, sunscreens, and even hair products are marked “non-comedogenic” — that is, they will not clog pores. Certain hair conditioners actually cause back blackheads.
6. Avoid Tight Clothing
Tight or synthetic clothing can catch sweat and oil against your skin. Wear loose-fitting, breathable clothes such as cotton, particularly during exercise.
7. Spot Treat with Clay Masks
Clay absorbs excess oil and deports out pores. Use a clay mask on your back weekly if there is blackhead concentration in one spot.
8. Don’t Pick or Squeeze
It’s difficult, but extracting blackheads on your back can result in inflammation, scarring, or infection. Allow your skincare to work its magic, or go see a pro if extraction is necessary.
9. Try Back Facials or Professional Extractions
Estheticians provide back treatments specifically for you — extractions, exfoliation, and deep cleans. This is an excellent choice if you are unable to reach areas or experience recurring blackheads.
Be Consistent
No matter what products or techniques you try, consistency is the most important thing. It may take some weeks to notice anything, so don’t quit too early.
Prevention Tips
- Shower your back often (particularly after sweating)
- Shed workout gear frequently
- Clean conditioner and shampoo well to prevent buildup on your back
- Switch regular towels and pillowcases
- Use non-comedogenic haircare and skincare
Last Thoughts
Back blackheads are completely normal and curable you just require the correct regimen and some tolerance. With good hygiene, appropriate products, and perhaps a bit of dermatologist assistance, your back can be clear, smooth, and blackhead-free.
