Body Acne Causes & Dermatologist-Approved Cleansing Routine
Breakouts aren't just a facial problem. Body acne—those frustrating pimples on your back, chest, shoulders, and even buttocks—affects up to 50% of people who experience acne, yet it's often overlooked in favor of facial skincare. The truth is, body acne has unique causes and requires a specialized approach that goes beyond simply using your face wash on your body.
Body acne develops differently than facial acne due to thicker skin, larger pores, more sweat and friction, and different environmental exposures. What works for your face may not work for your body, and using the wrong products or techniques can actually worsen breakouts or cause scarring on these larger, more visible areas.
In this comprehensive, dermatologist-informed guide, we'll decode the science behind body acne, reveal the hidden causes specific to body breakouts, share the exact cleansing routine dermatologists recommend for clearing and preventing body acne, and provide expert strategies for maintaining smooth, clear skin. Whether you're dealing with occasional back breakouts or persistent chest acne, you'll learn how to build a personalized body care routine that delivers real, lasting results.
Understanding Body Acne: Why It's Different From Facial Acne
Short answer: Body acne differs from facial acne due to thicker skin, larger pores, increased sweat and friction, different bacterial populations, and unique environmental triggers—requiring specialized treatment approaches.
Body acne isn't just "face acne somewhere else." The skin on your body has distinct characteristics that affect how acne forms and how it should be treated:
Anatomical Differences
Thicker Skin:
- Body skin is 2-3 times thicker than facial skin
- Requires stronger concentrations of active ingredients
- Heals differently, with higher scarring risk
- More resistant to penetration, needing longer contact time
Larger Pores and Oil Glands:
- Back and chest have some of the largest sebaceous glands on the body
- Produce more sebum than facial skin
- Pores are more prone to deep clogging
- Breakouts tend to be larger and more inflamed
Different Bacterial Environment:
- Body harbors different bacterial populations than face
- Clothing creates unique microenvironment
- Sweat and friction create ideal conditions for bacterial growth
Environmental and Lifestyle Factors
Friction and Pressure (Acne Mechanica):
- Backpacks, sports equipment, tight clothing create constant pressure
- Seat backs, chairs, and furniture cause friction
- Exercise gear traps sweat and bacteria against skin
- This type of acne is specifically triggered by mechanical forces
Sweat Accumulation:
- Body accumulates more sweat throughout the day
- Delayed showering allows sweat, oil, and bacteria to clog pores
- Humid environments worsen body acne
- Non-breathable fabrics trap moisture
Clothing and Fabric Choices:
- Synthetic fabrics don't breathe, trapping heat and moisture
- Tight clothing creates friction and prevents ventilation
- Detergent residue can irritate skin
- Fabric softeners may clog pores
The Main Causes of Body Acne
Short answer: Body acne is caused by clogged pores from excess oil, dead skin cells, bacteria, sweat, friction from clothing and equipment, hormonal fluctuations, certain medications, and comedogenic body products.
Understanding what triggers your body acne is essential for effective prevention and treatment:
Hormonal Factors
Androgens and Sebum Production:
- Testosterone and DHT stimulate oil glands to produce more sebum
- Hormonal fluctuations during puberty, menstrual cycles, pregnancy
- PCOS and other hormonal imbalances
- Stress hormones (cortisol) increase oil production
Why Body Acne Is Often Hormonal:
- Back and chest have high concentrations of androgen receptors
- These areas are particularly sensitive to hormonal changes
- Body acne in adults often indicates hormonal imbalance
Sweat and Friction (Acne Mechanica)
The Mechanism:
- Heat and sweat soften the skin's surface
- Friction from clothing, equipment, or pressure damages follicles
- Bacteria multiply in warm, moist environment
- Dead skin cells and oil become trapped
- Inflammation and breakouts result
Common Triggers:
- Tight athletic wear or uniforms
- Backpacks, purses, or bags
- Sports equipment (helmets, pads, straps)
- Tight collars or bra straps
- Prolonged sitting or lying down
Product-Related Causes
Comedogenic Body Products:
- Heavy body lotions and oils clog pores
- Hair conditioners and styling products runoff onto back and chest
- Sunscreen formulas that are too heavy or oily
- Body butters with coconut oil, cocoa butter, or other comedogenic ingredients
Pomade Acne:
- Hair oils and heavy conditioners migrate to forehead, back, and shoulders
- Creates breakouts along hairline and upper back
- Often overlooked as a cause of body acne
Lifestyle and Environmental Factors
Poor Hygiene Habits:
- Not showering after sweating
- Wearing dirty or sweaty clothes
- Using dirty towels or washcloths
- Not washing bed sheets regularly
Diet and Nutrition:
- High-glycemic foods may increase insulin and IGF-1, stimulating oil production
- Dairy consumption linked to acne in some individuals
- Whey protein supplements can trigger breakouts
- Dehydration affects skin health and healing
Medications:
- Corticosteroids (oral or topical)
- Lithium
- Some anticonvulsants
- Testosterone or anabolic steroids
- Certain B vitamins (especially B12)
Types of Body Acne: Identification Guide
Short answer: Body acne presents as comedonal (blackheads/whiteheads), inflammatory (papules/pustules), nodulocystic (deep painful cysts), or fungal acne (uniform itchy bumps)—each requiring different treatment approaches.
Identifying your specific type of body acne helps you choose the most effective treatment:
Comedonal Body Acne
Characteristics:
- Blackheads (open comedones) and whiteheads (closed comedones)
- Small, flesh-colored or dark bumps
- Not inflamed or painful
- Caused by clogged pores without significant inflammation
Best Treatments:
- Salicylic acid (BHA) to unclog pores
- Retinoids to increase cell turnover
- Regular exfoliation
- Non-comedogenic products
Inflammatory Body Acne
Characteristics:
- Red, swollen papules and pustules (pimples with whiteheads)
- Tender or painful to touch
- Caused by bacterial infection and inflammation
- May leave dark marks or scars
Best Treatments:
- Benzoyl peroxide to kill bacteria
- Topical or oral antibiotics
- Anti-inflammatory ingredients
- Avoid picking or squeezing
Nodulocystic Body Acne
Characteristics:
- Large, deep, painful nodules or cysts under the skin
- Can be very inflamed and take weeks to heal
- High risk of permanent scarring
- Often requires prescription treatment
Best Treatments:
- See a dermatologist for prescription medications
- Oral isotretinoin (Accutane) for severe cases
- Oral antibiotics for inflammation
- Cortisone injections for individual cysts
Fungal Acne (Malassezia Folliculitis)
Characteristics:
- Small, uniform, itchy bumps
- Often appears on chest, back, and shoulders
- Worsens with sweat and humidity
- Doesn't respond to typical acne treatments
- May worsen with antibiotics
Best Treatments:
- Antifungal treatments (ketoconazole, selenium sulfide)
- Avoid feeding oils and fatty acids
- Keep skin cool and dry
- Antifungal shampoos as body wash
The Dermatologist-Approved Body Cleansing Routine
Short answer: A dermatologist-approved body acne routine includes daily cleansing with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide body wash, targeted leave-on treatments, non-comedogenic moisturizer, and consistent hygiene habits—adjusted based on acne type and severity.
This evidence-based routine addresses the unique needs of body skin while effectively treating and preventing acne:
Daily Cleansing Protocol
Morning Routine:
- Shower with Medicated Body Wash:
- Use salicylic acid (2%) or benzoyl peroxide (4-10%) body wash
- Lather and leave on skin for 2-3 minutes before rinsing (critical contact time)
- Use a long-handled brush or washcloth to reach entire back
- Rinse thoroughly—residue can irritate skin
- Recommended: CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser, PanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash, Neutrogena Body Clear Body Wash
- Wash Hair First:
- Shampoo and condition hair before washing body
- Prevents hair product residue from clogging back pores
- Rinse hair thoroughly, then wash body last
- Pat Dry (Don't Rub):
- Use clean towel to gently pat skin dry
- Rubbing can irritate active breakouts
- Use fresh towel each time to prevent bacterial transfer
- Apply Leave-On Treatment:
- While skin is slightly damp, apply treatment spray or lotion
- Benzoyl peroxide spray (5.3-10%) for inflammatory acne
- Salicylic acid spray (2%) for comedonal acne
- Use long-handled applicator or ask for help reaching entire back
- Recommended: Clean & Clear Continuous Control Acne Cleanser, Paula's Choice CLEAR Acne Body Spray
- Moisturize (If Needed):
- Use lightweight, non-comedogenic body lotion if skin feels dry
- Look for "oil-free" and "won't clog pores" labels
- Avoid heavy creams on acne-prone areas
- Recommended: CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion, Vanicream Moisturizing Lotion
- Sunscreen on Exposed Areas:
- Apply oil-free, non-comedogenic SPF 30+ to chest, shoulders, and back if wearing revealing clothing
- Sun exposure can worsen post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
- Some acne treatments increase sun sensitivity
Evening Routine:
- Shower Immediately After Sweating:
- Never wait more than 30 minutes after workouts or heavy sweating
- Sweat, oil, and bacteria clog pores quickly
- Keep clean workout clothes and towel accessible
- Double Cleanse (If Wearing Sunscreen or Heavy Products):
- First: Oil-based cleanser or micellar water to remove sunscreen
- Second: Medicated body wash with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide
- Leave on skin for 2-3 minutes before rinsing
- Apply Treatment (Alternate Nights):
- Night 1, 3, 5: Benzoyl peroxide treatment (5-10%)
- Night 2, 4, 6: Salicylic acid treatment (2%) or retinoid body lotion
- Night 7: Rest night—hydration only if skin is irritated
- Moisturize:
- Apply lightweight, non-comedogenic body lotion
- Helps prevent dryness and irritation from active treatments
- Look for ceramides, hyaluronic acid, or niacinamide
Weekly Treatments
Exfoliation (2-3x/week):
- Use chemical exfoliant with AHA (glycolic or lactic acid) or BHA (salicylic acid)
- Avoid physical scrubs on active breakouts (can cause micro-tears)
- Leave on skin for 5-10 minutes before rinsing
- Recommended: The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution (diluted for body), AmLactin Daily Moisturizing Lotion
Clay or Sulfur Mask (1x/week):
- Apply to back, chest, or shoulders
- Leave on for 10-15 minutes
- Helps absorb excess oil and unclog pores
- Recommended: Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay, De La Cruz Sulfur Ointment
Change Bed Sheets (2x/week):
- Wash sheets and pillowcases in fragrance-free detergent
- Use hot water (130°F/54°C) to kill bacteria
- Sleep on clean side of pillowcase or use fresh one nightly
Best Ingredients for Body Acne: Evidence-Based Guide
Short answer: The most effective body acne ingredients include salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, retinoids, glycolic acid, sulfur, and niacinamide—each targeting different aspects of acne formation with clinical evidence.
Salicylic Acid (BHA, 0.5-2%)
- Mechanism: Oil-soluble beta hydroxy acid penetrates pores to dissolve sebum and dead skin; anti-inflammatory properties
- Best for: Blackheads, whiteheads, and mild inflammatory acne
- Speed: 2-4 weeks for visible improvement
- Forms: Body wash, spray, lotion, pads
- Advantage: Can be used daily; less drying than benzoyl peroxide
- Evidence: Clinically proven to reduce comedones and improve skin texture
Benzoyl Peroxide (2.5-10%)
- Mechanism: Kills C. acnes bacteria, reduces inflammation, helps unclog pores by removing excess oil and dead skin cells
- Concentration: 2.5% is as effective as 10% with less irritation; start low and increase if needed
- Speed: 4-6 weeks for visible improvement
- Best for: Inflammatory acne (red, painful pimples)
- Caution: Can bleach fabrics—use white towels and sheets; may cause dryness
- Evidence: Gold standard for inflammatory body acne; reduces bacteria by 99.9%
Retinoids (Adapalene, Tretinoin, Retinol)
- Mechanism: Increases cell turnover, prevents clogged pores, reduces inflammation, stimulates collagen
- Speed: 8-12 weeks for visible results
- Best for: All acne types; excellent for prevention and long-term maintenance
- Forms: Gel, cream, lotion (adapalene 0.1% OTC; tretinoin prescription)
- Caution: Causes initial purging (4-6 weeks); increases sun sensitivity—use SPF
- Evidence: FDA-approved for acne; gold standard for preventing comedones
Glycolic Acid (AHA, 5-15%)
- Mechanism: Water-soluble alpha hydroxy acid exfoliates surface skin, improves texture, helps fade post-acne marks
- Speed: 4-6 weeks for smoother texture
- Best for: Rough texture, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, dull skin
- Forms: Body lotion, toner, peel pads
- Advantage: Improves both active acne and marks; enhances penetration of other products
- Caution: Increases sun sensitivity; can sting on active breakouts
Sulfur (3-10%)
- Mechanism: Dries out excess oil, kills bacteria, and gently exfoliates dead skin cells
- Speed: 2-4 weeks for drying active breakouts
- Best for: Oily skin, inflammatory acne, as spot treatment
- Forms: Mask, wash, spot treatment
- Advantage: Gentle alternative for sensitive skin; anti-inflammatory
- Caution: Distinctive odor; can be drying
Niacinamide (2-5%)
- Mechanism: Reduces inflammation, regulates oil production, strengthens skin barrier
- Speed: 4-8 weeks for reduced redness and oil control
- Best for: Red, inflamed acne; oily skin; sensitive skin types
- Forms: Body lotion, serum
- Advantage: Well-tolerated; can be combined with other actives
- Evidence: Studies show 4% niacinamide reduces inflammatory lesions by 50% in 8 weeks
Lifestyle Modifications to Prevent Body Acne
Short answer: Prevent body acne by showering immediately after sweating, wearing breathable fabrics, avoiding tight clothing, washing bed sheets regularly, using non-comedogenic products, and managing stress and diet.
Skincare alone isn't enough. These lifestyle habits create the optimal environment for clear skin:
Hygiene Habits
Shower Timing:
- Shower within 30 minutes of exercising or sweating
- Use lukewarm water (not hot, which can irritate)
- Don't skip showers, even when tired
- Keep travel-sized body wash for gym bag
Clothing Care:
- Change out of sweaty clothes immediately
- Wear clean clothes daily; don't re-wear unwashed items
- Wash workout clothes after each use
- Use fragrance-free, hypoallergenic detergent
- Avoid fabric softeners on items that touch acne-prone areas
Bedding Hygiene:
- Change sheets and pillowcases 2x/week minimum
- Use hot water (130°F/54°C) to kill bacteria
- Sleep in clean, breathable pajamas or nude
- Consider silk or satin pillowcases (less friction)
Clothing and Fabric Choices
Breathable Fabrics:
- Choose cotton, linen, or moisture-wicking fabrics
- Avoid tight, synthetic materials that trap sweat
- Wear loose-fitting clothing when possible
- Choose moisture-wicking athletic wear for workouts
Avoid Friction:
- Use backpacks with padded straps; alternate shoulders
- Avoid tight collars, bra straps, or waistbands
- Choose seamless or flat-seam clothing
- Remove sports equipment promptly after use
Hair Care Considerations
Prevent Pomade Acne:
- Wash hair before body to prevent product runoff
- Use oil-free, non-comedogenic hair products
- Avoid heavy conditioners or oils on scalp
- Tie long hair up during workouts
- Rinse hair thoroughly; ensure no residue on back
Diet and Nutrition
Foods That May Trigger Body Acne:
- High-glycemic foods: Sugar, white bread, processed carbs spike insulin and IGF-1
- Dairy: Skim milk specifically linked to acne in some studies
- Whey protein: Common trigger for body acne in athletes
- Processed foods: Inflammatory and may worsen breakouts
Foods That May Help:
- Omega-3 fatty acids: Fatty fish, flaxseed, walnuts (anti-inflammatory)
- Antioxidants: Berries, leafy greens, colorful vegetables
- Zinc: Pumpkin seeds, chickpeas, lean meats (supports healing)
- Probiotics: Yogurt, kefir, fermented foods (gut-skin axis)
- Water: Stay hydrated to support skin health
Stress Management
Stress and Acne Connection:
- Stress elevates cortisol, which increases oil production
- Poor sleep disrupts hormone balance and healing
- Chronic stress weakens immune system, worsening inflammation
Stress-Reduction Strategies:
- Prioritize 7-9 hours of quality sleep nightly
- Practice mindfulness, meditation, or deep breathing
- Exercise regularly (but shower immediately after)
- Maintain work-life balance
Common Mistakes That Worsen Body Acne
Avoid these errors that can sabotage your progress:
Mistake #1: Not Leaving Body Wash on Long Enough
Why it hurts: Salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide need 2-3 minutes of contact time to penetrate pores and work effectively. Rinsing immediately renders them ineffective.
Fix: Apply wash, lather, and leave on skin while you wash hair or shave. Set a timer if needed. Then rinse thoroughly.
Mistake #2: Picking or Squeezing Body Acne
Why it hurts: Picking spreads bacteria, increases inflammation, and dramatically raises risk of scarring—especially on the back where skin heals slower and scars are more visible.
Fix: Keep hands off. Use hydrocolloid patches on accessible areas. For cysts, see a dermatologist for cortisone injection.
Mistake #3: Using Harsh Physical Scrubs
Why it hurts: Physical scrubs cause micro-tears, spread bacteria, and worsen inflammation. They can also push bacteria deeper into pores.
Fix: Use chemical exfoliants (salicylic acid, glycolic acid) instead. If you must use physical exfoliation, choose gentle options and use sparingly (1x/week max).
Mistake #4: Wearing Dirty or Sweaty Clothes
Why it hurts: Bacteria, oil, and dead skin cells accumulate on clothes. Re-wearing them reintroduces these acne-causing factors to your skin.
Fix: Change clothes daily. Wash workout clothes after each use. Keep clean clothes accessible for post-workout changes.
Mistake #5: Using Comedogenic Body Products
Why it hurts: Heavy lotions, oils, and hair products clog pores and feed acne. Coconut oil, cocoa butter, and other comedogenic ingredients are common culprits.
Fix: Use only "non-comedogenic," "oil-free," or "won't clog pores" labeled products on acne-prone areas. Check ingredient lists for known comedogenic substances.
Mistake #6: Skipping Moisturizer
Why it hurts: Over-drying skin triggers rebound oil production and compromises barrier function, leading to more inflammation and breakouts.
Fix: Use lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer even on oily skin. Hydrated skin heals faster and tolerates actives better.
Mistake #7: Expecting Overnight Results
Why it hurts: Body acne takes 6-12 weeks to show significant improvement. Impatience leads to over-treating, switching products too frequently, or giving up before treatments have time to work.
Fix: Commit to a routine for at least 8-12 weeks before evaluating results. Take monthly photos to track progress objectively.
When to See a Dermatologist
Short answer: See a dermatologist if body acne is severe, cystic, scarring, unresponsive to OTC treatments after 8-12 weeks, causing emotional distress, or if you suspect hormonal or medical causes.
Professional intervention is necessary when:
Red Flags Requiring Medical Attention
- Severe or cystic acne: Large, painful nodules or cysts
- Scarring: Developing permanent scars or dark marks
- No improvement: After 8-12 weeks of consistent OTC treatment
- Sudden onset: Acne appearing suddenly in adulthood
- Emotional impact: Affecting self-esteem, causing anxiety or depression
- Signs of infection: Excessive redness, warmth, pus, or fever
What to Expect at Your Appointment
Medical History:
- When acne started and how it's changed
- Current skincare routine and products
- Medications and supplements
- Family history of acne
- Hormonal factors (menstrual cycles, PCOS, etc.)
Physical Examination:
- Assessment of acne type, severity, and distribution
- Check for scarring or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
- May examine other areas (face, chest, back)
Treatment Plan:
- Prescription topical medications (stronger retinoids, antibiotics)
- Oral medications (antibiotics, hormonal therapy, isotretinoin)
- In-office procedures (extractions, cortisone injections, chemical peels)
- Follow-up schedule to monitor progress
Prescription Treatment Options
Topical Prescriptions:
- Tretinoin: Stronger retinoid than OTC options
- Clindamycin: Topical antibiotic for inflammatory acne
- Dapsone: Anti-inflammatory gel
- Combination creams: Clindamycin + benzoyl peroxide
Oral Medications:
- Oral antibiotics: Doxycycline, minocycline (3-6 months max)
- Hormonal therapy: Birth control pills, spironolactone (for women)
- Isotretinoin (Accutane): For severe, scarring, treatment-resistant acne
Expert Tips for Faster Results
Tip #1: Use a Long-Handled Brush or Applicator
Invest in a back scrubber, long-handled brush, or spray applicator to ensure even product distribution across entire back. Uneven application leaves untreated areas where breakouts continue.
Tip #2: Layer Actives Strategically
Use benzoyl peroxide wash in morning, salicylic acid spray post-shower, and retinoid at night (on alternate nights from BP). This maximizes efficacy without over-irritating.
Tip #3: Protect Bedding
Benzoyl peroxide bleaches fabrics. Use white sheets and towels, or wear an old white t-shirt to bed if applying overnight treatments.
Tip #4: Shower Temperature Matters
Use lukewarm water, not hot. Hot water strips natural oils and triggers inflammation. Finish with cool rinse to close pores and reduce redness.
Tip #5: Treat Preventively
Apply treatment to entire affected area, not just visible breakouts. This prevents new acne from forming and treats microcomedones (invisible precursors).
Tip #6: Be Patient and Consistent
Body acne takes longer to heal than facial acne due to thicker skin. Commit to 8-12 weeks of consistent routine before evaluating results. Take progress photos monthly.
Frequently Asked Questions About Body Acne
How long does it take to clear body acne?
Short answer: With consistent treatment, you'll see initial improvement in 4-6 weeks, significant clearing in 8-12 weeks, and optimal results at 3-6 months. Severe or cystic acne may take 6-12 months.
Timeline depends on:
- Severity (mild vs. cystic)
- Treatment consistency
- Skin type and healing rate
- Whether you're using OTC or prescription treatments
Can I use facial acne products on my body?
Short answer: You can, but body skin is thicker and often requires higher concentrations. Facial products may be too weak or too expensive for large body areas. Use products specifically formulated for body acne when possible.
Exception: Adapalene gel works well on both face and body.
Should I exfoliate body acne?
Short answer: Yes—but use chemical exfoliants (salicylic acid, glycolic acid), not physical scrubs. Scrubs can irritate active acne and spread bacteria. Chemical exfoliation 2-3x/week helps unclog pores and smooth texture.
Why is my body acne getting worse?
Short answer: Common reasons include: initial purging from retinoids (normal, lasts 4-6 weeks), over-drying skin, using comedogenic products, not treating consistently, hormonal changes, or underlying triggers like friction or diet.
If worsening continues beyond 6-8 weeks, see a dermatologist to adjust your protocol.
Can body acne cause scarring?
Short answer: Yes—body acne is actually more prone to scarring than facial acne because back skin is thicker and heals differently. Cystic acne carries highest scarring risk.
Prevention: Treat early, don't pick, use retinoids to prevent clogs, and see a dermatologist for cystic lesions (cortisone injections prevent scarring).
Is body acne hormonal?
Short answer: It can be. Hormonal fluctuations (androgens) stimulate oil glands, leading to acne, especially on back, chest, and shoulders. Hormonal body acne often appears in adults and may worsen cyclically.
If you suspect hormonal acne, discuss options like birth control or spironolactone with a dermatologist.
When should I see a dermatologist for body acne?
Short answer: See a dermatologist if:
- OTC treatments haven't improved acne after 8-12 weeks
- You have painful, cystic, or scarring acne
- Body acne affects your quality of life or self-esteem
- You suspect hormonal causes
- You want faster results with prescription treatments
The Bottom Line: Clear Skin Is Within Reach
Body acne doesn't have to control your life or limit your clothing choices. With a systematic, dermatologist-approved protocol—medicated cleansing, targeted leave-on treatments, proper hygiene, and lifestyle adjustments—you can clear body acne and maintain smooth, confident skin.
Remember:
- Consistency is key: Daily habits matter more than perfect products
- Be patient: Body skin takes 8-12 weeks minimum to show results
- Treat preventively: Apply actives to entire area, not just spots
- Protect your skin: Don't pick, wear breathable fabrics, shower after sweating
- Escalate when needed: If OTC fails, prescription treatments work
- You're not alone: Body acne affects millions—help is available
Start tonight: medicated wash, leave-on treatment, clean sheets, breathable sleepwear. Commit to 8 weeks. Take progress photos. And trust that with consistent care, your clearest skin is ahead.
You deserve to feel confident in your own skin. With the right protocol and patience, body acne can become a thing of the past.