Despite the long sleeves and layers we can wear to hide it, body acne can still be a serious burden. It may be genetic or hormonal, but more likely, it has to do with what we’re exposing ourselves to in our immediate environment. You may be unknowingly making it worse with something as simple as fabric softener. Find out which are the worst offenders so you can eliminate body acne.
Dairy
As heartbreaking as it is to hear, cheese and ice cream can be the enemy. The hormones and other components of dairy products can cause serious breakouts, especially in those prone to breakouts. Try cutting any and all dairy for two weeks and see a dramatic improvement in the texture of your skin.
Straps
Have you ever noticed clusters of congestion where your bra normally rests? The rubbing of strap and skin can cause “friction acne” because of the sweat accumulated and trapped near open pores. This clogs the pores, which is why it is especially important to shower ASAP after a good sweat session. Washing regularly cleans the surface of the skin and is a good preventative measure for acne in general.
Pore-Clogging Products
Many every-day products contain pore-clogging ingredients, and if residue is left behind by these products, it sits on our skin and can cause breakouts. Check your beauty products for some of the more popular culprits: acetylated lanolin, butyl stearate, cocoa butter, decyl oleate, isopropyl- , neopentanoate, isocetyl stearate, and red dyes. (See an inclusive comedogenic list here.)
Fabric softener, perfume, and conditioner are among the most problematic products. Ditch the fabric softener because it contains multiple chemicals known to be major skin irritants. Chest or neck breakouts are most commonly caused by the pore-clogging ingredients in a single perfume spritz, so avoid these sensitive areas. Be sure to give your hair a thorough rinse after applying your conditioner to avoid leaving any residual petroleum byproducts on your skin, as they’re known to clog pores and cause breakouts.
